Set in the original region of Arciel, Legends Rising is a route-inspired, but not strictly route-based, Pokemon roleplay. Pick a faction, pick a class, and strike out into the wild to take on the League, master Contest coordination, research the mysteries of Pokemon and Arciel, and much, much more. Will you be a classic trainer? A criminal? A farmer? Choose your destiny on Legends Rising.
Post by Makoto Kurumi on May 27, 2020 20:27:48 GMT
It was a beautiful day, in Route 9. The sun was still rising in a clear and early morning sky, the sound of birdsong could be heard as the fauna began to stir and awaken, and the boughs of the orchards would gently rustle in a light breeze that blew through the area. Off in the distance, the peak of Grumble Volcano could be seen peeking just above the treeline, and the distant calls of wild pokemon lurking in the unseen shadows could be heard from afar. Makoto would inhale deeply - enjoying the crisp and clean air - before letting out a long and relaxed exhale. How long has it been, since they've set out on their own like this? Since they've left town, to wander once more?
Too long, it'd seem; Kuro, bless his heart, was a little bit nervous about all of the new sounds and smells. He would jump at any noises that were the slightest bit too loud, or too close - turning himself into some random object as he did - only for the little kit to become sheepish, when he realized that it was nothing. Still, he'd follow closely at their heel; ears swiveling and eyes glancing about with a wary hue. Makoto, affectionately, would gently pat Kuro on the head - murmuring "There there, darling. I promise, it's quite alright..."
Kuro would make a skeptical whine in his throat, but seemed to nonetheless relax under his trainer's touch. Everything was so new - and he'd never really been socialized as much as he should've. The unknown was a scary thing, and there were a lot of unknowns out there, just beyond where he could see. He was sure that they'd be okay, but... The skittish part of his brain was on edge, and was blowing every little spook out of proportion.
Makoto, smiling sympathetically, would scoop Kuro up in their arms; a hand gently scritching the little fox behind the ear. "There there... I know you're nervous, dear. Would it help if I held you close and safe, like this...?" The answer, apparently, was a yes; Kuro loved being carried like a baby, and almost instantly melted in Makoto's embrace, as they cradled him close. The confectioner would laugh in a gentle and endeared fashion, continuing to carry Kuro like this as they moved on down the road.
And as they moved, Makoto couldn't help but wonder... Who knew what they might find, out here on Route 9...? Kuro the Zorua - Level 5 - 5/5 Energy
Last Edit: May 27, 2020 20:29:41 GMT by Makoto Kurumi
The terrain seemed surreal as Josh stepped north of Fuji Town, a bit disappointed Shovelware Studios had no contract with for him at the time being. Wearing a highly-contrasting yellow-and-purple shirt and shorts, each with a lightning-bolt motif, he slowly turned his head from west to east. How could such a beautiful, half-forested landscape exist in the wake of the destructive giant that was Grumble Volcano? He had been up the other side of the trail, which could be best described as a wasteland. This, though, was highly arable land, as evident with farms stretching quite far northeast from Fuji Town's north entrance. It couldn't even be called a gate, the place was so rural.
The young man donned a pair of leather gloves, smiling as he released a new addition to the team. "Ready for your first test run, Blinky?" he asked the emerging Pokémon, a Jolteon who had been fitted with riding tack. Unlike many of Josh's Pokémon, she preferred to wear hers constantly unless she was sleeping outside her Poké Ball. The leathers were a bit thicker than with the rest of Josh's Pokémon, making her gear a little heavier than Saber's or Aslan's. It needed to be - with all that spiky fur, it would be impossible to ride the electric-type otherwise.
"Yeeee!" Josh shouted, a big shock running through each of his legs as he mounted up. He was used to Saber's constant static by now, that being almost a light buzzing feeling. This was a lot more intense, like the kind of shock one would receive if mishandling a vehicle's jumper cables. He carefully rubbed his gloved hands against Blinky's bright, yellow and white fur. No shock - maybe he had built up a bunch of static somehow? His heart started beating faster as he held onto the fur, not digging too deeply into it so he didn't poke his wrists. "Alright, let's ride!" Josh cried, jabbing into his mount's sides.
He wished he hadn't.
It did not take long for Blinky to accelerate, sparks flying out of her paws much like his Manectric. Though the Jolteon didn't have the whiplash-inducing acceleration Saber did, it felt like she never stopped getting faster. Josh let out a scream, unsure if it was of joy or terror, his body lacking the strength to hold up to that many G's for so long. The terrain had to be beautiful from all the colors that blurred together, but the rider couldn't really appreciate the terrain when it was rushing by at what seemed like a hundred miles an hour.
The strong acceleration wasn't the only problem with riding the Jolteon - the apparent wind from the insane speeds threatened to blow Josh off his mount and seriously hurt him. When his strength started to give out, he shouted, "Blinky! Not so fast!" His throat quickly dried out from having to shout into the crazy wind.
While she was adept at getting up to speed, slowing down was another matter entirely. Her claws were not well developed at all - she needed a lot of room to decelerate. He grabbed the reins and started pulling back harder, but it only marginally decreased her speed. She blew right past a purple-haired traveler, Josh unable to ascertain any details about the individual at all. By the time the two were able to stop, the young man was quite far ahead, hyperventilating after an adrenaline rush that was probably not good for him. Blinky turned around, looking like she was ready for more. Josh wasn't. He dropped in the saddle a little, watching the traveler catch up while he continued to recover his strength.
NAME SPECIES LV EP STATUS Nitro Skiddo 20 5 Good Twilight Absol 21 5 Good Bladestorm Skarmory 27 5 Good Resheph Dratini 10 5 Good Blinky Jolteon 21 5 Good Flint Cyndaquil 8 5 Good
So far, things were calm on the road. It was nothing more than a brisk walk, like the ones they would share with Kuro sometimes; though the duo certainly have never strayed this far from Fuji Town. Even the nervous little Zorua could begin to relax, when he realized that there was nothing here that was out to hurt him; simply relaxing in Makoto's arms, as they continued to cradle him close. A crunch from the side of the road would, briefly, make the Zorua jump - but... As the duo came to see, it was none other than a large Stantler, slowly and casually striding across the road.
The Stantler in mind didn't seem to even mind Makoto or Kuro all that much; simply moving along at her own pace. With how large the pokemon was, on top of the intimidating air about her, Makoto had a feeling that she didn't have much to mind or be afraid of, out here in the wild. "Ain't that a sight, Kuro...?" They'd softly ask the Zorua; to which the little fox would quietly nod. He was intimidated, for sure; but the Stantler was still a majestic sight, nonetheless. Thus, they'd both quietly watch as the Stantler reached the other side of the road, before eventually disappearing among the trees beyond.
Only once Kuro couldn't see or hear the Stantler's strides, would he relax; letting out a heavy sigh. He was happy to have not drawn any ire from the large Stantler; imagine being on the receiving end of those hooves...! Makoto, meanwhile, would simply chuckle and scritch him on the head; continuing onwards, down the road. However, what was a quiet trek wouldn't remain quiet for much longer.
The first sign of this fact, would be a distant shout - one that only Kuro would be able to pick up, with his keen ears. Bewildered and curious, the little Zorua would shift around in Makoto's arms; placing his front paws on one of their shoulders, so that he could glance behind the both of them! What he saw, however, would be a bewildering one - a trainer on a large Jolteon, coming in their direction at a breakneck pace...! Makoto would glance back to see this as well - but by the time they thought to glance back... Josh and Blinky would dart right past the both of them, the duo kicking up dust in their wake!
Kuro, startled, would practically jump out of Makoto's arms; and as he was about to land, he would use his illusions, to disguise himself! No longer was there a Zorua; instead, Kuro would appear as a sizeable rock - the only thing implying that there was anything off about the rock, being the fact that Kuro's tail was still visible! Makoto couldn't help a gentle but understanding sigh at this; crouching down to scoop the 'rock' up in their arms once more, patting on where they believed Kuro's head to be. "There there, Kuro..." They'd reassure - murmuring "I know, that was pretty startling; though there's nothing to be scared of, okay? It's just a trainer going for a ride."
And speaking of that trainer; he seemed to have come to a stop up ahead, practically slumped in the saddle of the large Jolteon that he was riding. Smiling warmly and welcomingly, Makoto would briskly powerwalk up to the trainer and Jolteon both; briefly noting how odd it might look to be carrying a rock with a tail, but not worrying over it too hard.
Once Makoto was close enough to Josh and Blinky, they would briefly look the duo over; in particular having their eyes on Josh himself. They, admittedly, were admiring him a bit; though they found the yellows and purples of his outfit a bit clashing, he himself had a tall and strong-built look to him. He seemed a bit on the younger side, though; perhaps a bit too young for Makoto's tastes, at least unless they get to know him more. So, they wouldn't go straight to the flirting; instead simply smiling and waving to Josh, as they approached. "Hello there, dear," Makoto would greet; a warm and welcoming smile on their face. "That Jolteon of yours is quite the ride, from the looks of things; are you alright?"
Kuro, meanwhile, would remain in the form of a rock; still in Makoto's arms. Perhaps, if he hid himself well enough, they wouldn't notice him... OOC: updating level to reflect the two swarm fights Kuro had
Josh's vision was blurry from his eyes drying up a little more than was comfortable, his face beet red from being exposed to vicious winds. While he had no idea just how fast Blinky was running, it was far faster than any of his other Pokémon could carry him. He blinked rapidly, gritting his teeth on occasion upon his eyelids running over a particularly dry spot. Normally, the only time he would need his racing helmet was when he was on the track. Blinky proved him wrong - it seemed the calm-looking Jolteon only knew racing speed. That, or was especially sensitive to a rider's motions. Controlling such a Pokémon would take a lot of practice.
The young man, dressed in clashing colors, couldn't bring himself to answer the traveler's question without taking a few more deep breaths. This was precisely the reason he had a helmet with a visor. Unfortunately for him, that thing was stowed away in his pack, close to the bottom and not easily accessible. "I...should be...okay," Josh managed between breaths, not even noticing Bladestorm's Poké Ball shaking in reaction to a Combee flying across the road and to a gorgeous flower field on the west side. "I was...trying to...train her...for the races..." He stopped to take a few more deep breaths before finally mustering the energy to start breathing normally again, "but I think she's the one training me!" he couldn't help but laugh, not even noticing the sizable rock in their hands thanks to the adrenaline rush finally wearing off. "What brings you out here?"
---
NAME SPECIES LV EP STATUS Nitro Skiddo 20 5 Good Twilight Absol 21 5 Good Bladestorm Skarmory 27 5 Good Resheph Dratini 10 5 Good Blinky Jolteon 21 5 Good Flint Cyndaquil 8 5 Good
So this trainer was into racing, huh? Giving Josh and Blinky another look over, it was easy to see that they were suited to it; from the riding equipment, from simply the sheer fact that the young man was riding a large Jolteon, of all pokemon! As Josh laughed and remarked about him being the one that's being trained, Makoto couldn't help a laugh with; smiling in a relaxed fashion. He seemed like a nice young man, as far as first impressions go. "It can be quite humbling, when a pokemon decides you're the one who needs training, instead of them." Makoto mused out loud with a gentle chuckle; unable to help briefly thinking back.
They wouldn't drift off into their own thoughts for very long, though; Josh questioning them, on what brought them out here. Makoto would take a second to break from their thoughts, but would soon respond; explaining "I'm doing a little bit of traveling, personally. It's my partner's first journey, and Route 9 is relatively shorter and milder than Route 8 - so I thought that this route would make a good first foray for my little darling." After a second though, Makoto would blink - as if realizing that it must look quite odd, for them to be carrying a rock and referring to it as their partner.
Smiling sheepishly, Makoto would then explain "Kuro here is a Zorua, though he might look like a rock right now. He's very shy and timid, and he tends to disguise himself as inanimate objects with his illusions whenever he's startled or around strangers." Glancing down to Kuro, Makoto would run a hand over his back; softly humming in a reassuring fashion. Kuro, hesitantly, would dispel his illusion with a little 'poof'; revealing the shy Zorua, curled up in his trainer's arms. He didn't know if he could trust Josh - given that he was a stranger - and that Jolteon, she was so much bigger compared to them...
... It seemed that someone else was far less shy about saying hello, though. Out from one of Makoto's pokeballs, a Sneasel - a strangely colored one, at that - would emerge; chittering curiously, as he looked Josh and Blinky both up and down! Makoto would chuckle a little at this - reaching a hand down to pat the Sneasel's head - mentioning "This is Kama; I met him recently, a ways up the route a bit. I guess there's been Sneasels swarming about here, and Kama was one of them." Though Sneasels were normally a wily bunch, Kama seemed to be friendly and cheery; extending a claw to Josh in what might've been his attempt at a handshake!
Once introductions were out of the way though, something seemed to catch Kama's eye - and the little Sneasel would run off, immediately using his sharp claws to scale one of the trees. Makoto was about to question just what Kama was up to, but... The answer would soon come, when a few apricorns - two orange, and one yellow, to be exact - would be shaken down from the boughs above! Was Kama trying to give them both a gift? Makoto would happily accept this gift either way - "Thank you, Kama dear; you've got quite the keen eye for apricorns," - kneeling down to pick up the two orange apicorn for themselves, before offering the yellow one to Josh.
"I don't think I've introduced myself, by the way." Makoto spoke as they'd soon stand back up, dusting themselves off. Kama would hop back down from the tree, chittering happily as he munched on a berry that he had snatched from somewhere - though where exactly, Makoto wouldn't really know. "I'm Makoto Kurumi; who might you and your Jolteon be?" OOC: Adding Kama in, since the swarm thread took place before the journey thread (but i only just caught him-)
Kuro the Zorua - Level 7 - 5/5 Energy Kama the Sneasel - Level 4 - 5/5 Energy
Last Edit: May 28, 2020 8:04:36 GMT by Makoto Kurumi
"I've had to handle both," Josh answered - referring of course to the Skarmory that was still bugging him about the Combee that had crossed their path before. He detached the steel-type's constantly-wiggling Poké Ball, tapping on its lid before bringing it up to face level. "...Did you learn nothing from your surgery? You're not the only Pokémon here." He cleared his throat after clicking the Skarmory's Poké Ball, still able to feel her movement from within. "Sorry," Josh turned her attention back to the traveler. "She's...got problems."
The rider listened to their reason for traveling. More new blood, huh? Man, the regional government must be doing something right. "You're not wrong - that mountain road even gave me trouble. Having a reliable Pokémon really helps. Speaking of which..." He reached for two different Pokémon this time, further agitating Bladestorm. She was going to be furious when it was her time to battle...which could either be very good or very bad. No in-between with that disobedient Skarmory. "Come on out and say hi!"
From the Poké Balls emerged a Skiddo and an Absol, also quite large for their kind. Both also wore tack, showing Josh was indeed quite serious about his craft. Nitro was rather chatty, quick to approach the Sneasel and Zorua. While Josh was quick to decline a handshake, not wanting to slide off Blinky's back to reach the, the Skiddo seemed eager to interact. Twilight looked annoyed at how Nitro just Would. Not. Shut. Up.; it was rare for her to express any emotion at all. He was about to tell the Absol to relax, but thought better of it.
"I've never seen a Sneasel with that kind of sheen," Josh remarked after declining the handshake. "This is actually my first time seeing either in person - I didn't even notice your Zorua at first," he admitted. "They look well-trained for being so young - just don't want to take any chances is all. Being from north-central Johto, I know what Sneasel can do." He tilted his head toward the friendly-looking ice-type. "If I offended you, I'm sorry - I didn't mean to." Besides, he was just starting to get comfortable on Blinky's back.
Once Kama had returned with the yellow Apricorn for Josh, the rider put on a smile, reaching over to grab it. "You didn't have to do that - thank you!" He pocketed the small fruit when Makoto asked Josh who he was. The two faced Makoto again, Josh's head bobbing back as though he was taken by surprised. "I got carried away with our conversation that I forgot to introduce myself, too - sorry for being so rude! Name's Josh - Josh Devlin, and beneath me is Blinky. I got her from a breeder that said she was bred for racing."
The Jolteon, calm as a house Lillipup, raised a paw to greet them and their Pokémon - her claws were extremely thin for her species. It almost looked like her paws were totally bare! "She couldn't fight even if she wanted to." Blinky let out a bark. It's not that she couldn't fight at all - if it was an emergency, she absolutely could. She just preferred not to fight. "I'm almost afraid to take her back home to Goldenrod. It's only a matter of time before the word gets out, but there are going to be a lot of unhappy breeders back home." He carefully pet the electric Pokémon's head - not even leather gloves would fully protect him if he rubbed the fur full against the grain. "Now remember, girl, we're traveling with someone now. You can't just bolt off like that." Blinky nodded, her legs becoming markedly less tense.
NAME SPECIES LV EP STATUS Nitro Skiddo 20 5 Good Twilight Absol 21 5 Good Bladestorm Skarmory 27 5 Good Resheph Dratini 10 5 Good Blinky Jolteon 21 5 Good Flint Cyndaquil 8 5 Good
As Josh apologized for one of his pokemon having problems, Makoto would shake their head in an understanding fashion. "It's quite alright, dear." They'd reassure Josh with a chuckle, mentioning "I know quite well how it feels, to be dealing with a rebellious or otherwise uncooperative pokemon. I'm sure you and her will be able to come to an understanding, with time; you seem a rather nice young man, after all." As they said this, they would smile warmly and reassuringly. And sometimes - Makoto thought to themself - the bonds formed despite one's disagreements are the strongest.
As Josh let out two of his pokemon for introductions though, one by one... Makoto would look to Nitro and Twilight both; looking them up and down. Yes, those seemed like pokemon that would be well suited to racing, as well; especially given the fact that they were wearing tack, much like Blinky was. Though, Makoto couldn't help but briefly wonder whether it'd be uncomfortable, to be constantly wearing equipment like this.
Though Kama was disappointed that Josh didn't accept the handshake, the young Sneasel's disappoitnment wouldn't remain for long; glancing in Nitro's direction, as the chatty Skiddo approached him and Kuro both! Eyes lighting up, Kama would chitter eagerly; seeming just as unlikely to shut up as Nitro was, which was likely much to poor Twilight's chagrin. Kuro, however, would shy away from conversation; snuggling down into Makoto's arms, as if to try and hide from the Skiddo.
Makoto, sympathetic to Kuro's shyness, would pat the Zorua's head - glancing over to Josh, as he commented on Kama and Kuro both. "Despite appearances, Kama's quite the sweetheart." Makoto mentioned with a chuckle. "He just likes to play; when I first tried to befriend him and offer him a pokeball, he mistook it for a toy, and began batting it around and playing keep-away with us!" The chuckle would grow into a soft and endeared laugh with this; adding "Kuro's still getting used to Kama's playful antics; but the darling means well, I promise. He's been just as much of a ray of sunshine for us as he looks."
As Josh apologized for potentially offending Kama, the Sneasel would glance in Josh's direction, tilting his head, before shrugging a little. He knows what his kin can do - he knows what he could do. He was used to pokemon, especially bird pokemon, being wary of him as a result of this.
With introductions though, Makoto smiled gently and nodded; a gentle bow of the head in respectful greeting. "It's a pleasure to meet you and Blinky both, dears. While I'm no breeder or nurse myself, I'd say that Blinky is more than well suited for racing, with how fast the darling is." The lack of traction might be a trouble, admittedly; but they figured that Josh would be able to figure out how to time and direct Blinky's turns and stops, once rider and ride both familiarized themselves with each other. "Might I even say that she's quite dashing?" An audible whine from Kuro would be heard as Makoto made their terrible pun; but Makoto, ready to face even Arceus' judgement for the bad pun, would gently laugh and continue on.
As Makoto began walking once more, Kama was more than happy to follow at their side; continuing to chitter with Nitro all the while. Seeing so many new pokemon was a curious thing for young Kama; and he was always happy to make new friends, to play with, any day! Makoto, too, would be happily to socialize with Josh in the meantime; questioning "So you're from Johto, huhm? I don't know if I necessarily look the part - It's been a long time since I've left home - but I'm from the north-western parts of Johto, myself."
As the group traveled up the road, a Teddiursa - seeming to be basking on a warm boulder in the sunshine - would lazily and sleepily raise her head to watch as everyone walked past. Kuro the Zorua - Level 7 - 5/5 Energy Kama the Sneasel - Level 4 - 5/5 Energy
"...She's certainly a handful," Josh added, leaving the discussion about his disobedient Skarmory at that. Nitro and Kama seemed to be making a very quick friendship, the two of them chatting nonstop even as their trainers continued north. The boy couldn't help but laugh with Makoto upon hearing her story of how she captured Kama - the Sneasel playing keep-away with the very Poké Ball used to catch it! Even Blinky couldn't help but let out a laugh.
"...Well, thank you," Josn continued, Blinky beaming a calm and cool face toward Makoto upon hearing the compliments. "We're still relatively new partners, so we're still getting used to each other...as you clearly saw. If you've ever been on a roller coaster you've not been prepared for, it's like that...but amplified. A lot. I kind of want to have someone run radar around him, to know just how fast he can get." And that was without a Quick Attack or Agility, too. Oh, Arceus - maybe this wasn't such a great idea. He snapped out of deep thought upon hearing Makoto's dreadful pun, promptly applying his right palm to his forehead.
Josh again perked up when he heard where they were from. "Wait, you're from Johto, too? Northwest...so, Olivine area? It can get expensive up there. I'm from the Goldenrod area myself - way on the south side." As he was collecting his thoughts while listening to Makoto, he felt something hard touch his knee. Apparently when he picked up Apricorns by that fence, he had missed one! He slipped off the Jolteon's back just long enough to stow his find, Blinky easily quick enough to catch up in no time at all. "The Pokémon races are really popular in Johto - been doing them there, too. There are three tracks within 20 miles of my apartment. I almost don't want to go back to Johto with Blinky - you know how many people would try to mug me if they found out I had a Jolteon this size? The last one this size I remember hearing about was auctioned off for something like four million Pen. When word gets out about the kind of Pokémon here, breeders back home are not going to be happy."
NAME SPECIES LV EP STATUS Nitro Skiddo 20 5 Good Twilight Absol 21 5 Good Bladestorm Skarmory 27 5 Good Resheph Dratini 12 5 Good Blinky Jolteon 21 5 Good Flint Cyndaquil 8 5 Good
Makoto could tell when a subject needed to be changed; and it seemed that Josh was no longer interested in discussing his Skarmory. So, instead. they would simply listen to Josh as he mentioned how he and Blinky were still relatively new partners; on top of describing how it felt, to be riding on the large Jolteon the way he had been. "That certainly sounds intense," Makoto would comment in response to Josh' description, nodding idly. Chuckling lightly, they'd remark "I'd be envious, if it weren't for the fact that I'd probably fall right off of any pokemon that can go that fast!"
As Josh and Kuro both reacted to Makoto's pun, they couldn't help but laugh even harder at their reactions; a cheeky grin across their face. "Pftahaha, ah, pardon me for the - pffft - pun, darling; that was - eheh - terrible of me. When I saw the - pftehehehe - opportunity, though, I had to - ahahah - take it..!" Kuro would simply sigh and roll his eyes a little in reaction, while Kama snickered with Makoto. Before long though, their laughter would die down; still smiling quite cheekily, in Josh's direction.
"Ecruteak, to be more exact." Makoto would clarify, mentioning "I remember when I first came down to Goldenrod, though. That radio tower, looming over all else; it was quite the sight, y'know?" Sighing in a faintly fond fashion, Makoto would continue "I don't know if I'd ever live in such a city, though; too much hustle and bustle for me, and certainly too much hustle and bustle for Kuro." Not to mention, they couldn't help but wonder whether someone in Johto would recognize them. It was very unlikely; they were never anything more than a grunt, and Tsume had always used his illusions to disguise them both, but... It was still a slight paranoia, that prodded at the back of Makoto's mind, whenever the notion of going back to Johto came up.
Not that they dwelled on the thought for long, though. Josh would soon talk about races back home, as well as how Blinky's existence would likely cause trouble in Johto; the notion of a pokemon as big as Blinky being auctioned off for four million making the criminal's eyebrows rise in surprise. "Four million... That's quite a lot of pen, for just a single pokemon." They'd comment, awe apparent. Glancing down to Kama, Makoto would continue "It really puts into perspective, just how unique the pokemon here in Arciel can be, compared to other regions... Though... I wonder why that is, really."
Just beyond the trees, Makoto could see a shy looking Phantump watching them from afar - though they'd simply offer the little ghost type a wave, before moving on. "Have you ever heard of the giant pokemon in Sequoia Forest, who dwell in the deeper portions of the area?" Makoto would question, glancing in the young man's direction. "Though I've never been out there, I've heard plenty of tales of the place, with how close Fuji Town is to the forest." Kuro the Zorua - Level 7 - 5/5 Energy Kama the Sneasel - Level 4 - 5/5 Energy
"No kidding," Josh laughed with Makoto as they expressed concerns about going flying. "I'm going to have to learn how to withstand his Quick Attacking and Agility too, if I want to race with the pros." He covered his mouth. There he went, spouting his thoughts again without being asked. He stayed silent as Kama and Makoto laughed up a storm, the young man relaxing his arm and rolling his eyes at them. "Was it really that funny?" he said with a scowl. Even Blinky let out a chuckle. Josh let out a deep sigh that turned into a loud grumble.
"Ecruteak?" Josh asked to confirm. "Wow, I have friends up there, too. My folks wanted me to go to college up there, but I told them I'd rather pursue my dream as a racer. And look at where I am now - I'm almost ready to turn semi-pro. Just have to put up some good numbers this season." He listened to Makoto's experience about their visit to Goldenrod, and it seemed they weren't too thrilled at all. "City life isn't for everyone. If you want to do something, just about anything, there's probably a place you can do it."
Josh almost felt bad for putting a price on a Pokémon like Blinky, especially aloud. If he wanted to, he could go back to Johto and sell Blinky to a pro racing squad or a breeder. If he even got a good percentage of market value (even .7 on the Pen) he could toss the money in a hedge fund and live off the dividends. "As nice as it would be to have enough passive income to live off of...you can't put a value on a Pokémon. You just can't. You do bring up a point, though - why here?"
As if to prove his point, he released Resheph, his Dratini, as the giant Jolteon walked alongside Makoto. He would yield to them, though, as a sleeping Snorlax covered about half the road. At least it wasn't blocking the road completely - while Blinky was easily fast enough to jump over a Snorlax, Makoto wasn't so lucky. As the two passed the Snorlax, they brought up the giant Pokémon of Sequoia Forest. "No, but I'd love to go there - could you imagine having a giant Ninjask? That sounds incredible to fly on - you'd never lose an aerial race! Wonder if we can get there from Cork Town."
NAME SPECIES LV EP STATUS Nitro Skiddo 20 5 Good Twilight Absol 21 5 Good Bladestorm Skarmory 32 5 Good Resheph Dratini 19 5 Good Blinky Jolteon 21 5 Good Flint Cyndaquil 8 5 Good
Post by Makoto Kurumi on May 31, 2020 11:43:03 GMT
Makoto didn't seem to mind Josh rambling on; simply smiling and nodding in understanding. "I imagine once you do get it all figured out, that Blinky will be a reliable partner for you and your races." They'd respond; wondering how it would feel to ride on such a swift pokemon, once one got the hang of it.
Josh's reaction, though, would only make Makoto continue to chuckle; albeit a bit more subdued this time, thankfully. "I admit, half of the humor in making a bad pun, is the groans and facepalms you get from it." They'd comment with a cheeky smile; the sort of expression that was more at home on a mischievous fox's face, than a person's. "Perhaps I'm immature for it," They'd admit with a bit of a guilty yet shameless smile, before continuing "Though if you ask me, darling, finding the humor in the little things can go a long way to keeping a positive attitude in life."
"If you're happy with what you're doing, then keep doing it, I'd say." Makoto mused in response to Josh's comments "I'd say it's better to live knowing that you've made the most of it, than to live in a certain way just because that's how most of society does it." Though that being said, it did make them briefly wonder about the sort of things they used to do to keep happy. Should they keep doing it, even now, now that they're on the road once more? Hm... Food for thought, they supposed. "I do think that a little education never hurts, if you're interested in a given subject, though." Instead of dwelling on it though, they'd nod along to Josh's remark about city life not being for everyone; smiling gently.
Josh's mention that one can't put a value on a pokemon though, certainly seemed to make Makoto's demeanor grow a bit more serious - if only just a hair. "Pokemon live and breathe and feel just as we do. Paying a Breeder for their services is one thing; they need to be able to feed their pokemon, too, after all. Though I think that putting a price or value on pokemon and making them a commodity is a bit... Dehumanizing, for lack of a better term."
As Josh let Resheph out though, Makoto couldn't help but pause to admire the Dragon-type, and just how large she was. "I have a feeling that a lot of the reason behind pokemon here being so much more varied may have to do with the ecosystem; though... It's exactly hard to say what the exact cause is, for sure." Makoto would remark; briefly picking up the pace to pass around the Snorlax, and catch up with Blinky and Josh. "That Dratini of yours is impressive, though; where'd you meet her?"
The notion of a giant Ninjask, though, would make Makoto blink with a bit of alarm. "If I'm honest, that does sound like it'd be incredible to fly on; but it also sounds like it'd be a little bit terrifying." They'd admit with a gentle laugh; continuing "Though I don't think we'd be able to cut through the forest from Cork Town; or at least, it'd be a bit too dangerous for my tastes. The safest path through the forest starts at Maple City, and even then it's only so safe, given that the place is classified a Wild Area."
As they walked though, a sudden green shape would - out of nowhere - drop down in front of Makoto's and Kuro's faces! Kuro, understandably startled, would yelp and transform himself with his illusions; becoming a bush (though his equally bushy tail still remained) right in Makoto's arms! Makoto, meanwhile, would make a startled grunt in their throat, and stumble back a few paces to see just what had jumpscared them. Which, as it turned out, was just a Spinarak! She was simply vibing, hanging from a branch up above by a thread of spidersilk; and upon realizing this, Makoto couldn't help but chuckle. "Well hello there, little one; you sure caught me by surprise."
The Spinarak, in response, would briefly chitter - seeming to look over the gathered trainers and pokemon with visible curiosity. Kama would chitter back and wave with his claws - to which the Spinarak would wave back with a leg, before she began to ascend back up her line of silk. Once perched back up on a branch, the little spider pokemon would begin to skitter off towards the trunk of the tree, and soon disappeared from view into the canopy. Once the Spinarak was gone, Kuro would hesitantly dispel his little illusion; eyeing where the spider had disappeared from view, as Makoto kept walking. OOC: Popping a Dark Incense!
Kuro the Zorua - Level 7 - 5/5 Energy Kama the Sneasel - Level 4 - 5/5 Energy
Makoto's words rang true; once he got the hang of it, those two would be formidable together. The more he thought about it, the more Blinky could do to improve her own running, as well. Though she primarily used her claws for gripping the ground during acceleration, with work, she might be able to use them to help make turns, and even slow down a little bit better. "She certainly has made me realize the importance of braking. That's something I want to work on with her when we get back to town." He did his best to simply ignore their continued laughter. When he was younger, he used to laugh when he saw people getting angry and frustrated like he was now. Being on the receiving end, it wasn't so funny. "...You do have a point, though."
"Competing as a hobby is one thing; making a career out of it is totally different. Until you get good enough to earn sponsorships...when you're depending on your race performance to pay the bills, it's so different." Despite the pressure, Josh had decided once he got into Gold League, he would try to turn pro. It was a long road, but one he wanted to pursue. When work was something one enjoyed, it wasn't really "work". "A lot of amateurs who want to turn pro don't understand that the real money isn't in winning races; it's in sponsorships. Look at all the famous Coordinators out there. 50,000 pen for winning a Master Rank Regional Contest is a drop in the bucket compared to their sponsorship deals."
Not wanting to expand further on such a touchy and political subject, he was happy to head Makoto shift their attention toward Resheph. "Had to contact a breeder for her. She's the most adorable dragon-type, isn't she?" The Dratini slithered up Josh's neck, hanging her head upside-down in front of her trainer's face. "She's going to be an amazing racing Dragonair. I don't plan on evolving her after that, though. Dragonair are really good swimmers - they're more at home in the water than airborne."
Bladestorm's Poké Ball started rattling, reacting to the gentle buzzing of an Illumise hovering just off the road. "Excuse me," Josh briefly addressed Makoto before grabbing his Skarmory's Poké Ball. "Seems like Bladestorm's looking for a quick skirmish. Gonna need to stop for a bit. Go on ahead if you want - we'll catch up." He turned his attention toward the wild, tossing the steel-type's Poké Ball high into the air.
Josh's violent Skarmory emerged, her cry the only warning the Illumise would get from a high-speed divebomb. Every time Josh saw that, he could only dream of what it would be like up there. Bladestorm pulled up at the last moment, the compressed blades of air that had formed between her wings ravaged the wild. Each of the four blades cut deeper into the wild's exoskeleton than the previous one. The plated bird laughed at the bug-type's attempt to fight back, even a Zen Headbutt between her legs repelled by the sturdy armor. Clearly outmatched, the Illumise started fleeing for her life.
Bladestorm wasn't going to allow that, though - not a chance. The bloodthirsty bird took back to the air, his wing blades ringing from compressed air running through them. Josh watched in awe as his vicious partner performed dives and loops that would make untrained riders toss their cookies. "Blinky!" Josh shouted, gently nudging the Jolteon's sides. She responded with sudden acceleration, reaching a speed that would be a full gallop for most running Pokémon. To her, though, this was a speed effortless to maintain. Once Josh had rode close enough to the battle to recall his Skarmory, he did so. Just in the nick of time, too - the steel-type looked ready to finish off the Illumise and make a meal out of it. He recalled his partner, the Skarmory at first disappointed. She got over it quickly enough, though. "I promise, you'll get a good meal once we get to town."
---
Bladestorm's level is now 33! Resheph's level is now 20!
NAME SPECIES LV EP STATUS Nitro Skiddo 20 5 Good Twilight Absol 21 5 Good Bladestorm Skarmory 33 4 Good Resheph Dratini 20 5 Good Blinky Jolteon 21 5 Good Flint Cyndaquil 8 5 Good
Makoto gently laughed, as Josh called Resheph 'the most adorable dragon-type'; and they would be unable to help a nod of agreement. "Can't argue with that," They'd muse; visibly endeared over the way that the large Dratini simply hung around Josh's neck like a feather boa. "She seems like quite the sweetheart, at least from the looks of things." Makoto commented, chuckling over the way that Resheph hung her head upside-down, to peer at Josh. "I'm guessing you already have a few fliers on hand, if you're having Resheph handle swimming?" They'd also question curiously; briefly wondering what Resheph might feel, about only going up to a Dragonair, and no further. Did she mind it at all?
It certainly made Makoto think for a moment, as they glanced down to Kuro and Kama; wondering how either of them felt about evolving. It seemed like it's the natural progression of things for a pokemon to eventually evolve, but are there pokemon out there who prefer to stay in their base forms? Huhm...
Nonetheless though, it seemed that Bladestorm was getting agitated over a nearby bug type; an Illumise, from the looks of things. As Josh mentioned needing to stop, Makoto would nod in understanding; lightly joking "With Blinky here, I imagine it won't be too hard for you to catch up, no matter how long that skirmish goes." as they continued to walk along; glancing back in Josh's direction, as Josh let loose his Skarmory. When they saw just how violent the metallic bird was, though, well... Makoto couldn't help but pick up the pace just a hair; Kuro flinching at the sharp cry of the Skarmory, and Kama beginning to actually sweat a little.
It wasn't hard to see now, why Josh might've been having difficulties with Bladestorm; Makoto wincing in sympathy at the Illumise having to deal with such a vicious bird pokemon. "Quite the lively one, that Skarmory..." Makoto would be unable to help remarking to themself; Kuro whining a bit in response. It seemed the both of them were a bit worried for the little firefly pokemon! Thankfully, Josh was there to stop the fight before it went too far - him being quick to recall Bladestorm, once it looked like the Illumise had had enough. However, it seemed that Makoto would have their own fight to worry about, when a cry from further up the road would catch their attention...!
A Mienfoo - a tiny one, at that - would stand on the path just up ahead; already in a readied fighting stance! Makoto would blink for a second - wondering what to make of this little fella - and would briefly attempt to walk around him... Though he would simply sidestep, to continue blocking Makoto's way! Kuro, nervous, would huddle down in Makoto's arms a little more, while Kama would attempt to wave to the Mienfoo, approaching him to chitter in greeting! But the Mienfoo, visibly looking for a fight, would leap forward and lash out in a Pound in Kama's direction; prompting the Sneasel to squeal in surprise and narrowly dodge the attack!
It seemed there were no ifs, ands, or buts about this; this Mienfoo was looking for a fight. Brows furrowed in a disconcerted fashion, Makoto glanced down to their only two pokemon - Kuro and Kama - and chewed their lower lip a little, wondering how they should handle this. Kama was likely not going to fare well against the Mienfoo, given that he looked a decent bit stronger than the little Sneasel. Kuro, though, might have a better chance... "... What do you think, Kuro?" Makoto questioned, glancing down to the Zorua. "Do you think you could fight this Mienfoo for me, darling?" Kuro, admittedly, was quite unsure; unable to help voicing this in a gentle whine. But, he would still give it a shot - jumping down from Makoto's arms, to stand before the Mienfoo.
And indeed, against the higher level Mienfoo, this fight would be a difficult one - and it wasn't in Kuro's favor. The little weasel pokemon was faster, and hit harder; although thankfully, he didn't appear to know any fighting-type moves that could pose any trouble to Kuro or Kama. Even that being said though, the Mienfoo clearly had the advantage here; as they traded scratches and pounds, the fighting type was certainly starting to break a sweat - but it was clear that Kuro was also tiring out.
As a result, Makoto would - before much longer - call Kuro back, and switch Kama in! "Okay, Kuro; switch out for Kama!" The little Zorua, glad to be able to back out of the fight, would retreat; going to hide behind Makoto's legs, where it was safe. Meanwhile Kama, eager to prove himself, would grin and chitter; rubbing his claws together briefly, as he went into the fray!
With the Meinfoo having been softened up by Kuro, Kama would be able to have a somewhat easier time fighting against the little weasel; even if the Meinfoo, comparatively, was a good bit stronger than Kama. Kama was able to match the wild pokemon's speed with surprising ease, though; darting about, as he opened up the fight with a Leer, to soften up the Meinfoo's defenses! The Meinfoo, in reaction, would attempt to Meditate to raise his attack; though Kama used this as a chance to dart in for a Scratch, against the weakened pokemon! With a few more exchanges of attacks between the two weasels, though... It was becoming quickly apparent that Kama, too, was going to have trouble against the Meinfoo; though this match would be a close one, to say the least.
Deciding not to take any chances of Kama or Kuro being knocked out though, Makoto would pull out a Nest Ball; readying it, and tossing it at the Meinfoo! It was not a Dark or Fire Type, so it wasn't exactly the sort of pokemon that Makoto was familiar with, but... All else failed, surely someone else would like having such a lively little Mienfoo for a partner..! That, of course, required first seeing whether or not the ball was going to stick, though. If the Meinfoo was able to break out of the Nest Ball, then he might pose some trouble to Kuro and Kama both...! Nest Ball, go!
4/5 Encounters left on Dark Incense
Kuro the Zorua - Level 7 - 5/5 Energy Kama the Sneasel - Level 4 - 5/5 Energy
06
04
00
Iron x2, 
Chesto Berry x1, 
Bamboo x2
