Butts

>3241376
Poke-hype! I can't wait!

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“It was here.” You gasp. You hadn’t realized you were out of breath. “It’s gone.” You sacrifice a second more between you and precious air to preempt the question Hana was about to ask. She seems to understand you need a few seconds and restrains herself from pushing you while you get yourself together. You steady your breathing a bit, have a quick drink of water that she offers from a bottle, then explain what happened.

When you’re done giving the quick version to Hana, she shakes off a sense of nervousness and then looks you in the eyes with determination. “What can I do to help?” Abigail leans over from Gardevoir to

“First thing we should do call Jane and Keira.”

“I’ll call Keira!” Hana volunteers quickly before Abigail is able to respond. “I mean, I can call them both but I don’t think Jane likes me.”

Abigail gives Hana a very sarcastic look.

“Right. Can’t take it personally.” Hana responds. “What else do we need to do, Herb?”

“I need to get stronger, fast.” You were about to stand up, but now feel much heavier. “In case we can’t talk things out.”

“Woah. Woah.” Abigail interjects. “After everything you just told us, you think you can just talk things out?”

You push yourself up from your seat. It starts hard, but gets easier once you find your balance. “We might not always succeed, but it’s always possible to talk things out.”

Abigail and Hana both appraise you. Their faces show they’re coming to different conclusions about what you’ve just said. What gets your attention the most though, is that your Pokemon are all listening very closely.

There’s a sudden boom in the battle area. A Persian stands triumphant as it’s Incineroar..

“Way to go Meo-Persian!” Laki shouts, running down onto the arena. Looks like the battle ended.

Meara looks shaken. “I...congratulations on your victory. Come on over to get your badge.”

Laki waves you and the others over as the badges are explained to her. They both seem to agree that the fun-looking badge is best for Laki. Meara has a sad smile, subtly sniffs, and pins the badge on Laki.

“Bet you don’t have any trouble finding a boyfriend.” She mutters a joke.

Laki looks a little awkward now, but it’s not enough to damper her mood.

Meara’s attention turns to the rest of you. “Woah kiddo. Danced pretty hard, did you?” She gestures to your sweaty, matted hair. “It’s fine. You’ve got to let loose and lose yourself sometimes.”
>Tell her about Rayquaza
>Let Abigail have her battle first
>Point out how sad and upset she is, despite her efforts to hide it
>Ask her to explain the trick
>Something else

>>3241451
>>Point out how sad and upset she is, despite her efforts to hide it
>>Ask her to explain the trick
Ask her about the trick first. I want to ease her into a conversation before getting to Fug.

>>3241451
>Point out how sad and upset she is, despite her efforts to hide it
>Comfort the terrible gym leader.

>>3241451
>Ask her to explain the trick
>Point out how sad and upset she is, despite her efforts to hide

>>3241451
>Point out how sad and upset she is, despite her efforts to hide it.

>I can see it in your aura. The negative energy has been attracting spirits.

>Wanna talk about it?

>>3241451
>Point out how sad and upset she is, despite her efforts to hide it.
>I can see it in your aura. The negative energy has been attracting spirits.
>Wanna talk about it?

>>3241451
How much detail does “the quick version” entail? I don’t want to have made her a target for the other Fug too.

Fuuuck my break’s over.

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>>3241572
>>3241581
[Very skimmed over version that a malignant and powerful spirit appeared]

>>3241451
>>Point out how sad and upset she is, despite her efforts to hide it
>>Wanna talk about it?

Then if that goes well,
>Ask her to explain the trick

Hope you're having a good night gobble! Congrats on the more solid job and getting away from nightmare boss!

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“So, what’s the trick in the gym?” You ask.

“I did say I’d tell you after the battle.” She sighs. “Ah, what the hell. I’ll tell you the real answer.”

“Real answer?”

“Come on, let’s go sit up in my booth.” She motions for the DJ to lower the music volume a bit so you can still have a conversation. “Drink?”

Laki jumps on the offer, everyone else takes water or soda.

“Sure you should be offering drinks to kids?” Abigail asks.

“She’s old enough.” Meara points to Laki. Laki raises her glass. “And I know you are too, despite being a tiny little thing.”

Abigail frowns.

”Want to talk about it?”

She sips her drink and looks away. “Talk about what?”

“What’s upsetting you. It’s okay. You can tell us.”

She exhales. “You can tell, huh? Well, fine. So here’s the thing. When the lights go dark. I switch pokemon. Well, sometimes. Other times, in certain hidden spots hidden all around, my pokemon have little areas they can hide in and eat stashes of berries or use other items.” She exhales.

“Wow.” Abigail sounds unimpressed. “Why are you telling us this?”

She downs her drink and gets another. Laki gets a refill too. “I’m getting inspected tomorrow. I give out too many badges.”

“There’s a limit?”

“Not a strict one, but when one gym leader is handing out way more badges than others, it raises questions. And I’ve already had a lot of talks about this. There’s never been a gym leader with a ratio as bad as mine that kept getting recognized by the league. I thought if I pushed my ratio up I could go into the tomorrow’s inspection on a strong footing, but that’s not happening.”

Laki awkwardly plays with her new badge, not sure how to feel about it.

“Don’t feel guilty. You’re just one drop in a tsunami of losses.”

Abigail looks like she wants to say something.


>Let Abigail speak
>Tell her about the spirit you saw
>So you’ve been trying to cheat harder and harder? That’s not right
>But you’re a good gym leader. You taught us something
>Something else

>>3241670
>>Let Abigail speak
I trust Abi, let her say her piece.

>>3241670
>Let Abigail speak
pls don't be too mean Abi

>>3241670
>Let Abigail speak
And for the record, I do think that she should tell challengers that there are stashes of items hidden around the gym, if not where they are, just to make it more of a reasonable home field advantage vs what she has now, which is... maybe not unfair, but probably not something the league would approve of.

>>3241670
>Let Abigail speak

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You decide to sit back for a moment and let Abigail speak. She might have her issues with this gym leader, but Meara is clearly vulnerable right now. Abigail isn’t cruel. She’ll approach this with sensitivity and tact.

“Good. You don’t deserve to be here. You’re a low-talent fraud and everyone’s going to know once your gym loses recognized status.”

Everyone slowly turns to look at Abigail in shock. The tension in the air forms in a way that reminds you of that golden moment when an egg turns from liquid to solid on the frying pan.

“E-excuse me?”

Abigail samples the woman’s drink with a tiny sip, then puts it down with a look of disapproval. “You don’t have what it takes. You got the job because of island politics needing one of us as a token gym leader and you’re photogenic. You’re not a real gym leader and you know it. Tomorrow, everyone will know it.”

The grown women, despite her efforts, begins to softly cry.

You, Hana, and Laki finally get over your shock. Laki opens her mouth to say something, but Abigail subtly puts up a hand to ask her to refrain for the moment.


>Keep quiet. For now.
>Abigail! Stop it right now!
>Assure Meara she’s a fine gym leader
>She’s being very mean, but maybe she has a point?
>Something else

>>3241734
>Keep quiet. For now.
>Something else
Look both Abigail and the gym leader in the eyes, one after another. Try your best to discern whether either of them are trying to conceal their actual feelings on the matter, and if so, to what end.

>>3241734
>She’s being very mean, but maybe she has a point?
Well, let's see if she's gonna get to a point.

>>3241734
>She’s being very mean, but maybe she has a point?

>>3241734
>>Keep quiet. For now.

>>3241734
>Keep quiet. For now.

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You force yourself to sit still and now say anything, for now.

“Why?” She pushes through the sniffling.

“Why am I being so mean, or why does it sting so much to hear?” Abigail asks casually. “Either way, answer is the same. It’s because it’s true. You were probably pretty good when you were younger, right? Not a prodigy trainer, but still good enough to stand out and get praise. And they dangled this gym in front of you and and you said all the right things that they wanted to hear. And they told you all the things you wanted to hear right back. And so you got your gym, made up a cheap and easy theme where you get all these advantages, and with your slightly above-average skills and strong pokemon, including ones gifted to you like that Incineroar, you did fine for awhile. And you got complacent, and lazy, and never worked hard again since then, right?”

“I...I worked hard!”

“Yeah, on interior design, maybe. Or makeup. Bet you spent more time picking out that outfit than you did training that same day, right?” That one hits a little close to you, but you still remain silent.

“W-who are you to judge me!”

“Nobody who gets judged well ever asks that question. Everyone judges each other. That’s how the real world works, Buttercup. The real question is, who are you to judge any other trainer?”

“I’m a gym leader!”

“Not for long.” Abigail puts her feet up on the table.

“Get your feet off of there!” Meara’s disappointment is turning to anger. “Have some respect for the gym.”

“Gym? I don’t see a gym. This is just a building.”

Meara shoots up and slams her hands on the table. “You think you’re so much better than me? Huh?”

“Not a high bar.” Abigail plays with Conqueror’s ball. “And boy do I feel bad for your pokemon. How embarrassing must it be for them to have to listen to you?”

“That is it! I might not be the best, but I’m am the Terichi city gym leader. I have worked hard! My pokemon have worked hard! I’ll show you exactly why we were able to win the leadership on this gym!” The tears and makeup run down her face, and her hair is already looking messy.

“Nah.”

“I...what?”

“Not unless I get something out of it. And I don’t want your badges.”

Meara clenches her fist and just barely manages to keep control of herself. “What do you want, then?”

“Simple. When I humiliate you, resign. Save yourself, and our town, the embarrassment of you getting canned.”

Meara looks heavily emotional. It’s the same look that Laki gets sometimes when she’s not really thinking about the consequences.


>Abigail, no!
>Stay out of it
>Something else

>>3241854
Abigail has found Herbs weakness being mean and truthful.

I don't feel like doing nothing is the right thing here, but I don't know what the right choice is.

>>3241854
>Stay out of it
Harsh as it is, I gotta be honest here this chick deserves everything she's getting.

>>3241854
>Abigail, no!
"I let you go on because I hoped you were going to make at least some attempt to improve things, to help correct something or another she did that you saw as wrong. This isn't helping. Don't try and say you're correcting something by getting her to leave, either! If you think she's doing a bad job, you help her learn how to do a better one, and if she did something wrong in the past, you help her begin to make amends! This isn't helping anyone, it's just hurting someone for no reason other than that hurting them is what you think is "right"."

>>3241854
>>3241882
I'm good with this

>>3241882
I think she's... trying to get her to put up or shut up because ultimately Abigail feels that if she can't improve herself or act she's wasting her own time and everyone else's.

She's not necessiarly wrong. We let her say her peace, normally herb would offer to help re-vamp the gym or something but... Can we really take the time to do that? Can we get her pokemon to respect her? It's not really something we can fix.

>>3241854
>Abigail, no!

>>3241882
>This isn't helping.
It is though. She's incompetent, unfit, and her response to failure is cheating. There's no possible way she can or should keep her position. The best thing she can do is own up and bow out on her own terms instead of being dragged out kicking and screaming.

>>3241889
Those are all decent points; however, I don't really think Herb would be thinking about those factors right now. As I see it, right now, he's seeing someone verbally hurt another, and in my proposed response, he's saying what he thinks is the right stuff to stay.

>>3241854
This
>>3241882
I don't agree, but I think Herb does

>>3241895
I don't think what she does is cheating. It's no different then a lot of advantages that other gym leaders give themselves. I think her worse sin is that she probably hasn't been training as much as she should. Herb can relate with Meara, he understands what it's like not to be particularly good at anything. It was only recently that Herb was considered skilled really. He would have more empathy for Meara and I don't think coercing her into making a bet is helping. If she doesn't deserve her position then the gym officials will strip her of the title. I think we should let the proper channels deal with her.

>>3241908
>>3241915
>he's saying what he thinks is the right stuff to stay.
I don't see Herb as someone who lies to spare people's feelings. What Abby is saying is true. If the truth hurts, you deserve it.

>>3241923
I don't think the truth should be wielded like a weapon. If someone has fucked up, you call them out, but you help them get better. Just tearing someone down because you think you are better than them is petty and is an insecure thing to do.

>>3241923
There's a difference between telling the truth and intentionally tearing somebody down, intentionally hurting them. Also, the writein never states whether Herb thinks Abigail is right or not, just that he doesn't think this is the right way to go about things.

>>3241922
>I don't think what she does is cheating
Switching unannounced is expressly cheating because it requires her to have two pokemon out from the start in a 1v1 fight, otherwise the pokeball flash would give it away. Using stashed items is functionally the same (if not worse) as the trainer using potions mid battle, which is also expressly barred in gyms. She's cheating, and this is not arguable.

>>3241935
>but you help them get better
This IS making it better. The only way she can make things right is to resign. If she's fired she drags her island through the mud. If she keeps her position she's still a fraud and a liar, and deserves to be removed.

The only thing a decent person could do in her situation is resign. Literally any other option is unacceptable.

>>3241938
Herb had all his pokemon out of their balls. She isn't doing anything we don't normally do. Also it's her gym, she makes the rules, and it not like she ever does a two on one on an opponent. She could take pot shots from the dark, but she just does a pokemon switch and even still she doesn't exceed the number of pokemon limit either. It's not illegal to use items in any battle. Nothing about what she does is against the rules as we've seen them in the quest.

>>3241946
I don't agree with the assumption that the only thing she can do is resign. I think she should be honest to her higher ups and admit that she needs help and that she wants to improve. Then it will be up to the powers that be to decide if they want to give her another chance, but I believe that we shouldn't try to force her out.

>>3241951
>Also it's her gym, she makes the rules
The rules are locked by the ref at the start of each battle and subject to league approval. Literally every gym battle where Gobble decided to include the ref's startup routine includes "no items will be permitted."

>>3241966
I honestly don't remember any ref saying items are not allowed.

>>3241854
Hey, Gobble, can we get some clarification on if the ref mentioned items being allowed or not?

>>3241962
Anon, I honestly don't understand why you think she deserves the chance to improve. By all we've heard and seen she isn't qualified, she was never qualified, and the only reason she was considered was political. When a decent person learns they got in the door due to bullshit, they walk back out.

Further,she's already made herself poison by cheating (and poorly, since everybody realized that she was pulling something as they fought). Whether she improves or not her reputation is shot and nobody will trust her judgment in the future. Gym leaders are supposed to represent and act on the behalf of their town. It's practically a political office. This isn't an issue of who deserves what, it's corruption.

>>3241854
>This isn’t helping.

>When you’re the only one in a group representing your people, they’ll get judged on you either way. It’ll look bad either way whether you get canned or quit.

>I think you need to admit you’re behind the curve and ask for help. People appreciate someone who wants to put in the work.

>>3241984
Without her, there’s nobody representing her town though. If there was a better candidate amongst them, they would have been picked.

And her gimmick isn’t cheating.

>>3241984
I don't think she's really done anything I would really consider cheating, underhanded sure maybe even cheap tricks, but I disagree with the assertion she's a cheater.

Abi herself said that she may have been qualified at some point but she has grown lax over her career. Her tricks helped at the beginning, but since she never improved her ability to battle declined. I think she is capable of becoming a better gym leader. She should admit to her faults and be honest about them and she should strive to overcome them.

I personally believe her reputation will be fine. Politicians overcome scandals all the time. We've seen much larger assholes stay as gym leaders in the quests and in Pokemon at large in general. I definitely don't think she's corrupt as you are suggesting.

I’d rather the anti-miscegenation grass gym leader get this sort of ire than Meara. It’s a weird double standard to treat her more harshly than him.

>>3242022
Yeah, I think that leader is a straight bigot. I guess people are okay with racism.

>>3242011
>Politicians overcome scandals all the time.
Public opinion hasn't been the determining factor is political appointment for over a century. If the best you can come up with is comparing her to politicians than frankly that's a point in my favor.

>We've seen much larger assholes stay as gym leaders in the quests
Assholes, yes, but competent assholes. Robin's dad did his damn job properly no matter how fucked in the head he was.

>>3242022
In what way does his personal opinions (which he went out of his way to mention that he had no intention of forcing on others) affect his ability to with a fair battle.

Damnit, break’s over.

It's become clear to me that several posters in this quest cannot separate a person being likeable from a person being deserving, and frankly that's disappointing. Just because you can sympathize with someone does not mean they deserve sympathy.

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“Abigail, no!" You sit up. “I let you go on because I hoped you were going to make at least some attempt to improve things, to help correct something or another that she did that you saw as wrong. This isn't helping.” She opens her mouth, but you press on. “Don't try and say you're correcting something by getting her to leave, either! If you think she's doing a bad job, you help her learn how to do a better one, and if she did something wrong in the past, you help her begin to make amends! This isn't helping anyone, it's just hurting someone for no reason other than that hurting them is what you think is "right"."

Abigail looks a bit annoyed at you, but remains calm, letting her one foot rotate around on the table. “What am I going to do, go back in time and make her earn it? It’s too late for her. So I am making this right, Goldentop. The only way left to do that is to represent my town by forcing her to stop. And what’s it matter anyway? She’s getting fired tomorrow.”

“We don’t know that for sure.” Hana mutters.

“If you feel you’re behind, you can just ask for help. People appreciate someone who wants to put in the work.”

“If she was someone who would put in the work, she’d have done it by now.” Abigail looks at you and Hana, then Meara. “You’re a pity case. These two just feel sorry for you. But that’s not enough to hold a gym.”

She finishes her drink, then Laki’s. “Fine! Let’s go.”

“Great.” Abigail smirks. “I only have one Pokemon though. You can restrain yourself to just one, right? Actually one?”

Meara nods. She looks regretful already. Not from the condition Abigail is laying down, but as soon as she agreed to this battle.

“Then let’s get to it.” Abigail gets up and walks towards the gym leader’s side of the battle area, leaving Meara to take the challenger’s spot.

Laki rests her hands behind her head. “I know I have a temper problem, but now I don’t feel so bad about letting Abigail work me up. She is really, really good at being infuriating.”

Laki seems to be taking this well. Hana looks worried though. She’s biting her real nails. Her other hand then appears in place to be nibbled on too, to her confusion. A second later Ghost Pepper appears out of her arm and giggles. The giggling stops when it sees you. Pepper avoids your gaze begins to fly away a little.


>You’re disappointed and frustrated with Abigail
>You’re going to go cheer for Meara
>Forget about that for the time being, fill in Laki about what happened during her battle
>Talk to Pepper about the battle right away. It did great, even if it got knocked out
>Something else

>>3242056
>>Forget about that for the time being, fill in Laki about what happened during her battle
>>Talk to Pepper about the battle right away. It did great, even if it got knocked out
We've got more important things to take care of.

>>3242056
>Forget about that for the time being, fill in Laki about what happened during her battle
>Talk to Pepper about the battle right away. It did great, even if it got knocked out
Pep is a good ghost and deserves a snuggle.

>>3242056
>Talk to Pepper about the battle right away. It did great, even if it got knocked out
After that, ask them if it's alright to vent a bit about how
>You’re disappointed and frustrated with Abigail.
Maybe it's your main lander perspective, but it doesn't feel right to you that she's being so vicious towards Meara just because she didn't do as good a job as Abigail thought she should have, both as a gym leader and as a representative of their town. If she's unfit for the job, then she should be removed from the position, but there's a difference between having a logical opinion vs an emotional opinion, and Abigail's is clearly extremely and overly emotional.

>>3242056
>>Forget about that for the time being, fill in Laki about what happened during her battle
>>Talk to Pepper about the battle right away. It did great, even if it got knocked out
>You're frustrated with Abigail

I'd say Herb would be pretty frustrated with himself as well, he couldn't find a more calm or positive solution.

>what's going on in this thr-

Jesus christ

>>3242056
>Talk to Pepper about the battle right away. It did great, even if it got knocked out
>>Forget about that for the time being, fill in Laki about what happened during her battle

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You decide not to let the battle get to you at the moment. You’ve got more pressing issues to worry about, unfortunately. You’ve got to tell Laki about what happened, and also make sure Ghost Pepper knows how you feel.

“Laki, I have something to tell you.”

You mention a malignant spirit having been interested in Meara, giving Laki the short and detailed version, just like with Hana. It’s not exactly easy to explain it in words. Aura stuff is so nebulous and strange compared to the physical world.

Laki isn’t sure what to make of that at all. “Huh.”

“Sorry I can’t really explain the details.” You say, feeling at a loss.

“It’s fine Soft Hands. I trust you and your judgement.” Laki’s praise isn’t as helpful to your mood as it normally would be. “So is there anything we can do?”

“Just...be on the lookout.”

Laki gives you another look, like she’s unsure about something. Figuring something out. But the start of the battle between Abigail and Meara takes her attention.

Ghost zooms up a little to see over Hana’s head.

“Oh hey, Pepper. I wanted to talk to you.”

Ghost Pepper shrinks down. It's worried because it got taken out in that last battle.

“It’s fine. It’s fine. You did great out there. Really. I’m very proud.”

Ghost Pepper believes your sincerity, but still looks concerned.
>Explain how helpful it’s contribution was, even if it got knocked out
>Apologize for giving it the commands that led to it being knocked out
>We both did our best, and we had fun. That’s what matters
>Promise to train it to its full potential
>Something else

>>3242209
>Explain how helpful it’s contribution was, even if it got knocked out
>We both did our best, and we had fun. That’s what matters

>>3242209
>We both did our best, and we had fun. That’s what matters
>Explain how helpful it’s contribution was, even if it got knocked out

>>3242209
>Explain how helpful it’s contribution was, even if it got knocked out
>We both did our best, and we had fun. That’s what matters

>>3242209
>We both did our best, and we had fun. That’s what matters
>Explain how helpful it’s contribution was, even if it got knocked out

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“You did great. Don’t feel like you didn’t contribute, because you did. Getting the knockout blow isn’t all that matters. You helped us gather info, put the opponent in a tough position, and lined things up for Dice. It was a team effort. And thanks in part to your help, we won.”

Gobble moves to put a hand on it, but his hand passes right through. Ghost Pepper still looks down, though.

“But, it’s just because we won. We both did our best, and we had a good time doing it. I saw how excited you were. I was too. That’s what matters. That’s what it’s all about.”

Ghost Pepper seems a bit warmed up, but isn’t quite convinced. Boy, there really are some trust issues here, aren’t there? That makes you worry about what sort of treatment Ghost Pepper has gotten in the past.

Ghost Pepper looks to the battle area with Abigail and Meara. It, like all of your pokemon, heard that conversation. Meara is fighting for her gym. Winning seems like it’s really important. “It doesn’t seem like fun or good intentions matter right now.” Gardevoir says for them. She startled you! As you ponder that, she telekinetically floats the pitcher of water over and drinks it. You forgot how much effort she gave to help.


>Well, you won’t put your pokemon in a situation like that
>Well, even if Meara loses, it’s better to lose by trying your best and having fun than winning under other circumstances
>Okay, sometimes it matters more to win than to have fun, but most of the time it’s just a game
>Well, they’re doing they’re best, right?
>Something else

>>3242351
>Well, even if Meara loses, it’s better to lose by trying your best and having fun than winning under other circumstances

>>3242351
>Well, even if Meara loses, it’s better to lose by trying your best and having fun than winning under other circumstances

>>3242351
>Well, even if Meara loses, it’s better to lose by trying your best and having fun than winning under other circumstances
>Something else
We can't say that this is the best example, honestly... both of them seem to be at least somewhat incorrect with how they're approaching this whole thing. We should let Ghost watch a different battle with us commentating about the trainers' attitudes. This one... might not be ideal.

>>3242351
>>Well, they’re doing they’re best, right?
>The context matters, sometimes things have to be about more than just having fun.
>That doesn't mean that's what we're battling for though! Having fun, pushing and learning about ourselves, that's what we're here for.
>Thank Gardevoir for helping out.

>>3242351
>Well, even if Meara loses, it’s better to lose by trying your best and having fun than winning under other circumstances

>>3242351
>Winning here can only prove who can beat the other. It can’t prove whose ideas are right. Just who could assert them.

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“Well...” You think. “This isn’t really a good example. But even if Meara does lose, it’s better to lose by trying your best and having fun than under other circumstances.” Ah! How are you supposed to put this feeling into words? ”You don’t lose when you lose a pokemon battle. You lose when you lose yourself.”

They all absorb that message.

“Thanks for helping out before, by the way Gardevoir.”

“Sunlight is precious. It must be protected.” She says cryptically.

Laki tussles your hair. “My thoughts exactly.”

You all watch the battle unfold. Meara’s Honchkrow dives into the darkness where Conqueror is, but comes out the other side having hit no targets and covered in a poisonous powder. Conqueror is caught by surprise at the speed of it’s follow-up Wing Attack when it turns around, though.

“Don’t let up! Honchkrow! You’re my very first pokemon! I’m trusting everything to you!”

Honchkrow pushes itself for another attack before Conqueror can act. It’s pushing incredibly hard.

“Conqueror. Hold on with Draining Kiss! Just a while longer!”

It’s a fierce battle, taking a lot out of each pokemon. A long, long while later, Honchkrow wheezes and stumbles, looking like it just has nothing left to give.

Conqueror lands near it, waiting on Abigail’s command. They don’t seem to have any intention of attacking, but they aren’t letting down their guard either.

There’s a pause. It feels like everyone is holding their breath.

“Please, Honchkrow.” Meara mouths almost silently. You’re no lip reader, but she has an expressive face. A sad, expressive face.

You had to reach out before with Meowth, but without using your powers, you can tell Honchkrow is beyond a level you’d allow your own pokemon to continue fighting in.

Honchkrow pushes itself up.
>”Meara! Concede the match! It's over!”
>You can't help it. it's such a strong display of will. Cheer for Honchkrow to push on!
>Say nothing
>Plead with your eyes to Abigail not to defeat Meara
>Something else

>>3242525
>Say nothing
this is their moment

>>3242525
>Say nothing
We said our piece, but
>Plead with your eyes to Abigail not to defeat Meara
I think this battle is pointless when they are going to decide formally if she's fit to be a gym leader tomorrow.

>>3242537
Pretty much this. Maybe also look at Honchkrow in a way that communicates how this is very much not a good idea.

>>3242525
>"Honchkrow's going to get hurt if you let him keep fighting. One of the most important things a good trainer knows is when to stop."

>>3242525
>Say nothing

>>3242525
>"Honchkrow's going to get hurt if you let him keep fighting. One of the most important things a good trainer knows is when to stop."

>>3242525
>Say nothing

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You want to say something. You want to stop this. But something holds you back. Maybe it’s the belief that they’ll do the right thing. Maybe it’s just faith.

“Honchkrow...” Meara is conflicted. “Try using...” She clenches her teeth, let’s out a sob, and then uses the pokeball to return Honchkrow. “Come back.”

You sigh in relief that it finally ended. People do unwise things when they’re under pressure, sometimes.

“Good job, Conqueror. Return for now.” Abigail says as the music fades away.

The pokemon are both taken back, and Abigail takes her time walking towards Meara. “A bet is a bet.”


>You proved your point Abigail. Don't make her retire
>Watch how this unfolds
>Abigail’s right
>Something else

>>3242613
>Watch how this unfolds
...

>>3242613
I'm not crying you're crying.

>>3242613
>>3242622
I donno I think Abi is going to impart some wisdom here or something but if she doesn't hug her I want to.

So adding a hug if it.. I dono

>>3242613
>Watch how this unfolds

>>3242613
>Watch how this unfolds
>Something else
I'm down to shed some manly tears. It's pretty sad.

>>3242613
>>Watch how this unfolds
This is their thing now

I guess Abi’s decided she can do the league’s job for them.

>>3242681
I dunno, maybe I sound harsh but it’s definitely presumptuous. At least give them the chance to rule first.

I’m probably partially miffed because I strongly dislike gambling anyways. When it’s with big important things, anyways.

>>3242690
Herb would be too, since his mom lost a lot of money and endangered their family that way.

Come to think of it, I think I remember that Herb dislikes gambling too what with his mother and a-

>>3242700
Yeah, that.

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“Abigail...” Hana begins.

But Laki pulls her back gently, shaking her head.

Abigail stands over her defeated opponent, watching her in judgemental silence. Waiting for Meara to say the first word.

“I haven’t been trained with Honchkrow in awhile.” She stares a hole into the floor, while talking quietly. “She’s better when she’s not so rusty. We’ll go for a walk in the park tomorrow. The one she likes.” Meara brings her head up. “I’ve been promising that for a long time. Now there’s no excuse for putting it off.”

“The bet was that you resign once I humiliate you. You didn’t do anything humiliating.”

Meara laughs through a tear, not really believing her ears. “Come on. I knew what I was getting into.”

Abigail puts her hands on her hips. “What, did you want me to make you retire?”

Meara rubs a little dirt off of the pokeball in her hand. “Maybe. I honestly don’t know. I always wanted to be a gym leader, but...losing felt like a huge relief. A weight off of my shoulders. It’s just so tiring.”

“Then retire. There’s no room for someone wishy-washy running a gym. If someone like me can take your dream away, you never really wanted it that badly in the first place.” Abigail begins to walk away. “Or don’t. Whatever. You figure it out. And you don’t need to sweat getting dropped. They’d never admit that giving you the job was a mistake. They’ll just cover for you.”

“That sounds more embarrassing than getting fired.”

Abigail throws up her hands. “That’s been my point the entire time! It’s not just embarrassing for you, though. Me and everyone else you represent has feel that too.”

“It’s not fair to put that on m-”

“Holy shit! Boo hoo! Life isn’t fair. Look like torso-girl over there. Look at my body next to titty-McGee! Look at that dopey-faced goon with two girlfriends! It’s not about fair. It’s never going to be fair. That’s not what it’s about. No amount of unfairness can take away your integrity. That’s something only you can do, because you choose to do it.” She folds her arms. “Frankly I don't think you have what it takes. That was a fine enough match and you had enough decency to know when to quit, eventually, but I don’t think it’s in your character to be consistent about it. I think if you stayed on, you’d try for a month and go back to your old ways after.”

Meara thinks about how, or if, she’ll respond to that as Abigail starts walking away.

You can’t help but think what you’d do in her shoes.


>You’d retire and see where you can get on your own
>You’d stay and do your best from now on
>You don’t want to say
>You might just snap at Abigail if you were her
>You wouldn’t have bet your gym on a battle in the first place
>Something else

>>3242707
>Something else
You'd leave the gym to train in a different environment, and return when or if you thought you were really, truly prepared for the responsibility.

>>3242707
>You wouldn’t have bet your gym on a battle in the first place
You hold on to what you care about. Never bet anything you aren't willing to lose.

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[That's it for tonight! Thanks for coming everyone! Sleep tight!]

>>3242716
Thanks for running, Gobble! I think it was a good thread. A lot of us were really invested in tonight's story.

>>3242707
>You are in her shoes.
>Having to be representative of mainlanders to people all the time is a lot of pressure, let alone running a business and gym too.

>But you’ve given it your all, and learned to ask for support, and people respect that.

>>3242716
Thanks for running!

Hey, so, you said threads would be more regular coming up, do you have an idea what days those might be on? I can’t speak for anyone else, but I find weekends make it a lot easier to be as participatory as I’d like.

>>3242707
Oh, and I’ll add >>3242713 onto my vote here >>3242721

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>>3242722
[For sure on Saturdays. I'll have to get a feel the particular days of the week at work, and I have a few things going on right now, but Saturday, barring family events or whatever, should be a given from now on.]

>>3242716
Night gobble! Good run tonight!

>>3242726
Good to hear! Does that include this Saturday?

>Abigail leans over from Gardevoir to

Sentence fragment. How was it supposed to end?

I think where I’m at is: Abi made a good point but she probably could have made it as well without twisting the knife like that. But I guess I can understand it since she’s got reason to take this personal.

>>3242713
Except we are. Didn't we put our pan up as a wager at that one temple.

>>3242707
>You’d retire and see where you can get on your own

I don't see it happening, but if Herb just one day lost the spark for cooking I can't help but think he'd stop after realizing it and either try to find it again, or find something new.

But also
>>3242721

Thanks for running Gobble!

>>3242923
When was that again? I just remember when we didn’t bet it against Max, but did definitely think about it, right?

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>>3242731
[Yes!]
>>3242771
[Oops.
"Abigail leans over from Gardevoir to make sure she's still okay."]

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[Since we're between threads, are there any questions I can answer?]

>>3244733
Are we reaching 'eye' level danger with evil protector?

Is there anything Herb is particularly bad at cooking?

How bad was Mom's gambling issue? It may have already been shown but I missed the specifics and anons have a tendency to go off on tangents when theory crafting about stuff.

>>3244733
Since Santa is real in the Pokémon universe, does he actually visit the house of every good little boy and girl in the world, or just the ones who write letters?

Does he take into account their upbringing/circumstances when evaluating their naughtyness vs niceness?

Does he give branded presents (like video games) and by doing so violate copyright law, or does he have diplomatic immunity from that?

How old is he?

>>3244850
Are we reaching 'eye' level danger with evil protector?
[Not sure what you mean. Can you rephrase?]
>Is there anything Herb is particularly bad at cooking?
[Herb is stretched thin these days. Anything that takes a long time is starting to be a foreign concept to him]
>How bad was Mom's gambling issue? It may have already been shown but I missed the specifics and anons have a tendency to go off on tangents when theory crafting about stuff.
[Bad enough to be a stress factor for late bills, but still outside the realm of a collection agency, This one comes from my own mom and experience.]

>>3244923
>Since Santa is real in the Pokémon universe, does he actually visit the house of every good little boy and girl in the world, or just the ones who write letters?
[Tough call! I want to make things realistic enough that anons can't always choose the most idealistic choice and expect it to work out, but I feel like idealism in general is a big part of pokemon. So vaguely "maybe;"
>Does he take into account their upbringing/circumstances when evaluating their naughtyness vs niceness?
[Yes]
>Does he give branded presents (like video games) and by doing so violate copyright law, or does he have diplomatic immunity from that?
]Pokemon, to me, represents an idealized and "better" universe than the one we live in. So naturally copyright is less strict.]
>How old is he?
[Santa? Old as he needs to be]

>>3245230
Do Loanans celebrate Christmas? Because I’m a fan of Keira saying something like “All the children in your country are pen pals with an immortal saint?”

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>>3245371
[I'm not married to it, but I believe they've have a similar day of worship and gift exchange]

>>3244733
What are Herb's family's thoughts on how much he's changed, both when he visited & assuming they're hearing about his latest exploits through the grapevine? (And, y'know, how well the two girlfriends thing is working out so far?)

On that note, their probable reactions if they find out about Herb helping Keira become a Fertility Priestess (whether that turns out fully romantic or otherwise)?

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>>3245467
>What are Herb's family's thoughts on how much he's changed, both when he visited & assuming they're hearing about his latest exploits through the grapevine? (And, y'know, how well the two girlfriends thing is working out so far?)
[His dad is more than impressed. A bit worried about how this might affect Herb if it doesn't work out, a but intimidated about how that might end up being, but mostly just brimming with pride about is son. His mom leans more to the opposite end. Worried a lot about her son's future. She's still proud, of course, because as much as she doesn't want to say it out loud she's very happy her son got over what she thought was terminal meakness and got some girls who genuinely seem to like him, she worries a lot more about him going through some sort of necessary-but-painful heartbreak like she did as a teenager.. His sister feels a bit negligent that she hasn't yet investigated these two probably-harlots trying to step on her territory trying to mess with her little bro, but it's forgivable for now since she's got so much going on with trying to keep connected with her mainlander friends and dealing with her new BF and adjusting to this new life, etc. Herb's younger brother mostly just gives up on having hope to living up to his older brother in most respects and focuses on things he likes, liberated from worrying about how he'll be compared because he's the Krillon to Herb's Goku.

>>3245669
Silly little bro. Everyone knows that Krillen was way more skilled than Goku. He invented the destructo disk! Goku just had a bigger number, Krillen had technique and thought. Krillen is someone to aspire to!

>>3245669
Hey at least he's not lord Yamcha

>>3245669
Did Laki's family ever figure out we had a drunken threesome in their house?

>>3245669
>Krillin to Herb's Goku

So there giving it his all and having Herb's back every step of the way, and eventually marrying a 10/10 who thinks he's the coolest?

>>3246376
Actually, she's an 18/18. :^D

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>>3245789
[Nope! Good news for Herb.]

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Gobble Forgot to Update The Badges Again

http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive.html?tags=Pokemon%20Island%20Adventure%20Quest
https://twitter.com/GobbleQM
ALL BINS: https://pastebin.com/u/Gobblepokemon
Character info pastebin in progress: http://pastebin.com/iB0tb7rz
Dice odds for best of 3: http://pastebin.com/994WTT3g

Latest bin: https://pastebin.com/MnTZZFQu

General rules:

There is a 10 minute voting period after each post. Non-contradictory votes will be combined as best as possible.
Write-ins for all votes are always welcome and encouraged. They may not all make it into the post or be altered to fit in, but I'll do my best to at least try to address the spirit of the write-in.

Very important or contentious votes may be redone in a stricter voting system as circumstances warrant.

Combat mechanics involve three rolls of 1d100, taking the best, and using the base accuracy and crit ranges of the the PTU system, roughly, but the 'turn order' will be more like the anime, where sometimes you can do a few moves in a row or be hit by a combo of moves yourself, all depending on circumstances. Stronger moves tend to take more time and have more cooldown than weaker moves and also may leave you open to an interrupt, so beware of that timing. Speed is more important for closing ground, intercepting, and other things and doesn't necessarily mean going first.

Pokemon and trainers are unique, and may have certain specializations, skills, or other things that the video-game mechanics might not allow. Some examples: That kung fu Bellsprout in the anime, that crystal Onix, or a Roggenrolla that can fly. Herb's perception skills, pokemon knowledge, context clues in general, and other things will hopefully come into play to avoid completely unfair, unforeseeable bullshit, but expect more bullshit from more advanced trainers.

Call me out on a mistake and receive a suggestive picture, mostly likely a butt.

Pokemon:
Gobble (Munchlax)
Mace (Roggenrola)
Belladonna (Roserade)
Dice (Feraligatr)
Sorbet (Vulpix)
Ghost Pepper (Rotom)

Location: The Dark type gym in Terichi

>>3247637
Hey Gobs!

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>>3247637
>it is time for butts: the quest

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You consider what you’d do if you were in her shoes. There’s something about that question that’s nagging at you. After all, aren’t you in the same situation, in a way? You’re a representative of mainlanders yourself. You know those pressures, even if you don’t tend to spend a lot of time thinking about it. Every action you take is seen as the actions of you, your family, people who happen to look like you, people who vouch for you or consider you a friend, and others, to some degree or another. And she’s right, it’s not fair. She must have it a lot harder having to run a business and gym. You’re just a teenager trying to learn and get by.

But that is how it is. And you’ve done your best and given it your all so far. You have no intention of changing that. The pressure of being a representative of more than just yourself is eased a lot by the strong sense that even if you’re far from perfect, you act with as much integrity as you’re capable of mustering.

If you were her, you’d probably consider retiring, then see where you could get on your own. You’d work on being able to handle everything and coming back when you’re really ready.

“I’ll think about it.” Meara finally responds to Abigail.

“Weak.” Abigail says, walking away. Abigail then turns around and heads back towards you, Laki, and Hana. “I got a little caught up. Almost forgot my stuff. I’ll be waiting outside if you need me.” She takes her bag and begins to leave.


>Talk to Meara
>Go after Abigail
>Hana seems to have forgotten she came here to battle someone, too, give her a nudge
>Laki, you’ve been quiet during all this, what’s up?
>We should all go. Meara is no longer a candidate and Hana probably feels too awkward to ask for a battle
>Something else

>>3247690
>Laki, you’ve been quiet during all this, what’s up?

>>3247690
>Go after Abigail

>>3247690
>Laki, you’ve been quiet during all this, what’s up?
afterwards,
>Hana seems to have forgotten she came here to battle someone, too, give her a nudge
This seems like a good way to give both Meara and Hana some confidence after... that.

>>3247690
>Talk to Meara
>”Good luck, I’m rooting for you.”

>Hana, didn’t you want to challenge a gym trainer?

>Let Abi cool off for now, but resolve to apologize to her in a bit, she made a good point, albeit in an uncomfortable way, and you’re sorry for doubting her.

>>3247690
>>3247718
I'll support.

Finally caught up again. Shit got pretty heavy with Meara, huh.
Also, why would you guys even think about fighting an evil dragon god with just aura powers? Are you all really willing to get Robin'd again? The bone clip should be a decent safety net if we knew what it actually does at least, but even if it bails us out one time, I bet there would be some pretty bad consequences anyway. Even now, we pretty much got told that we're on Dead Fug's shitlist, so we're not getting off easy next time.

How's life, Gobble? Is your new job treating you better now?

>>3247888
That’s one of the reasons I’m hoping to succeed on a diplomatic route. Even if we did win in a fight, we’d suffer heavy losses.

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“Hana, you came here to have a battle too, right? With a gym trainer?”

She looks uncertain. “Umm, well, yes. But...” She inhales deeply, then whispers to herself. “I won’t let my awkwardness hold me back. I’m worth giving myself the effort.” She stands up, drawing no attention from the despondent Meara, so she has to speak up. “Miss Meara.”

The worn down gym leader glances at Hana with heavy eyes.

“I umm, would like to battle-”

“There won’t be any more gym battles today.”

“I don’t want one!” Hana says with a high pitch. “I umm, want to fight someone other than you.”

Whatever was left of Meara’s optimism and good cheer, now vanishes from her in an almost visible fashion.

“T-that’s not!- I mean- When I came here it was to face a gym trainer, not the leader. I just want to practice, not go for a badge! N-not because of any politics or because it’s this gym or anything!” Hana begins to look even more sweaty than you.

“Yeah. Sure. Whatever.” Meara walks to a rear door. A few moments later, an eager young girl in dancing clothes appears and comes to introduce herself to Hana. Her cheerfulness contrasts sharply with Meara’s mood.

Meara stops before she walks off. She sighs and forces something out. “You kids remember to have fun, alright? DJ! Give them something dancy!” She walks off without any kick in her step at all.

“You’ve been quiet.”

Laki finishes chewing the ice from the drink that she was playing with. “Just thinking.”

“What about?”

She adjusts to face you. “It must be pretty hard on you, adapting to the islands and dealing with all these people that see you as this or that instead of just you. I thought I knew what that was like, because I still get recognized from the games sometimes, but it’s not the same. That was something I did and chose. And it’s rare these days. Fading. You though, you’re going to face that all the time when we’re old, and all of our kids will have the same issues as Jane. Doesn’t it ever get to you? You never seem to be affected.”
>The majority of people are fine to you. It’s not that common
>People get pre-judged by being tall or other factors. Being a mainlander is no different
>To be honest, you have way bigger concerns these days, like spirits
>Shrug. It all works out in the end as long as you have a good attitude
>Of course it bugs you. Your little brother is going to get the same treatment
>Circle back to that thing she said about kids
>Something else

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>>3247888
>How's life, Gobble? Is your new job treating you better now?
[Going well! I start Monday. I have a lot to learn and we'll see how it goes, but I had a lot of back and forth with them and I'm excited. I'll probably be a bit brain-drained for the first few weeks.]

>>3247893
>Of course it bugs you. Your little brother is going to get the same treatment

>To be honest, you have way bigger concerns these days, like spirits

>>3247893
>People get pre-judged by being tall or other factors. Being a mainlander is no different
I mean, even that one anti-mainlander gang way back then was cool with us. Once people get to know us, or even learn of some of the things we've done, they seem to accept us. In the end it's our actions that shape how we're viewed and judged, more than our looks or origins.
There are some rare exceptions like that one monk, but not every single person in the world is going to approve of you, no matter what you are.

>>3247893
>Of course it bugs you. Your little brother is going to get the same treatment.

>But at least by showing people that I’m not so bad, I can try to do something about it.

>I hope Meara steps up instead of down. It’ll be bad if people see her as a quitter.

>Circle back to that thing she said about kids

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>>3247903
I'm glad! I hope everything works out for you.

>>3247893
I'll back
>>3247915

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>>3247929
You know, I’m surprised that it was the grass gym leader that was against miscegenation. A lot of agricultural products are the result of crossbreeds.

(I use the reply window to pull up the entry box and sometimes I forget to delete the (you), woops.)

>>3247893
>>3247910

pretty much this.

>>3247941
Racism doesn't have anything to do with logic. I can understand fearing the destruction of your culture, but you can't keep people from mixing. People have more in common than not and that's basically Herb's whole mission statement.

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“Well, yeah. Of course it bugs me. My little brother is going to have to face that sort of thing. But at least by showing people that I’m not so bad, I can try to do something about it.”

She smiles. “That way of making friends with everyone you come across is pretty magical to me, you know. It’s the second thing that attracted me to you.”

“What was the first?”

She looks down, not sure how to say this. “Your golden, mainlander hair.”

You smile. You remember how she was when you first met. She might have teased you a lot and maybe it was the hair that caught her eye, but she got to know you before you got together, and that’s really what the relationship is based off of.

But another thought grabs you as your eyes fall on the badge on her chest. “I hope Meara steps up instead of down. It’ll be bad if people see her as a quitter.”

“Maybe.” Laki says. “But a quitter now beats years of being an embarrassment. I’d respect her more for stepping down, if she can’t very quickly bring up her standards to where she can feel proud. She owes it to the gym trainers and challengers.”

Laki goes to grab another drink. As you watch her womanly figure walk, your thoughts go back to what she said about kids.

“What’s on your mind?” She asks as Hana’s battle really starts to kick off. It’s becoming fast paced, but still has all the elements of a more casual, friendly match.

What’s on your mind is kids. Specifically...
>You’re scared, but looking forward to it once you’re more established
>She’s still being really careful about keeping up with birth control...right?
>You’re feeling a bit pressured about her wanting so many kids so early
>How you’ll both make awesome parents
>Subtly bring up that Laki’s influence on Belladonna has, at some rare times, not been totally optimal
>Something else

>>3247990
>Something else.
Just bring up how well she's helped to raise Belladonna. Ask her if she would have done anything different, maybe, depending on how she responds to that.

>>3247990
>>3247996
This sounds good to me.

>>3247990
>How you’ll both make awesome parents

Not gonna lie, I’d be interested to see how this would play out in a non-epilogue sort of way.

>>3247990
Yeah
>>3247996

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“Can I ask you something?”

“Just did, Soft Hands.” She sips.

“You’ve been great in helping me raise Belladonna.” You begin. Laki’s posture changes entirely. She’s thrilled to hear you say that, and invested in what you’ll say next. “I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

She scoots closer and puts an arm over your shoulder, looking at Belladonna as the small plant pokemon shadowboxes and watches Hana’s battle. “She’s pretty great, isn’t she?”

“Yeah.” You watch for a moment. “But-”

“Is there anything I’d do differently?” She interrupts. “Not drop her as an egg, for one. Watch how I acted when she was really impressionable, second. I’m so glad she never picked up my temper.”

Wow. She’s being very blunt and open about that.

She gives you a little squeeze. “I think about it a lot. Not just with her though. All the pokemon. All the better ways I could have explained things or acted. I think a lot about all the times I do something I regret at night, too. Except the nights I go straight to sleep after we-” She stops mid sentence as her pokedex vibrates. “Valerie sent us the time for her show at the festival. Nice.” Laki leans back. “It’ll be good to see her. Glad she’s doing well. Keira, too. She seemed a lot happier since she decided to become a fertility priestess.”


>You’re going to enter into the amateur Contest at the festival
>Oh yeah. You told Keira you’d help her out with that. Any advice Laki?
>You also think about what you’d do differently in raising your pokemon
>You’re going to enter into the amatuer Contest there
>Cheer for Hana and move on
>Hey! We should do another game of Truth or Dare with the gang after the festival
>Something else

>>3248072
>Oh yeah. You told Keira you’d help her out with that. Any advice Laki?
You were thinking of maybe helping her put on a show, that would be some nice training, since you think
>You’re going to enter into the amateur Contest at the festival

>>3248072
>Oh yeah. You told Keira you’d help her out with that.

>You wonder what you’ll help her with.

>>3248072
>Oh yeah. You told Keira you’d help her out with that. Any advice Laki?
Scared to see how she takes this, but what the hell

>>3248103
Better now than later.

>>3248072
>Oh yeah. You told Keira you’d help her out with that. Any advice Laki?
>You’re going to enter into the amateur Contest at the festival

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“Oh yeah. Keira asked me to help her out with that.” You mention. “I was considering helping her put on a show. That would be some nice training, since I was thinking maybe trying at the amateur contest. But I’m not sure exactly what she needs, so I guess we’ll see.” You shrug.

“Woo! Go Hana!” Laki yells, then settles back into keeping an arm over your shoulder and holding you close. “Sorry Soft Hands. I was listening. You’re helping Keira with becoming a fertility priestess and-” She stops. For a good, long moment, she’s silent. “Soft Hands?”

“Um, yeah?” Her strong arm seems to be holding you pretty tightly against her.

“How exactly did that conversation go?”

You do your best to remember the specifics. You can’t recall the exact conversation so it’s difficult to answer Laki’s questions about how things were phrased. At the end of it though, she seems to have come to some sort of conclusion.

“You’re unbelievable!” Her mood has changed completely. Her arm has been retracted now, and she scoots back a bit to face you. “Are you really this dense? Do you...Am I doing something wrong? Is that why you give Hana so much more focus in bed? No matter what I do I’m never going to be cute enough for you, am I?”


>Laki, please calm down. You don’t know what you did
>You’re not giving Hana more focus! You resent the accusation!
>You didn’t know she felt this way. Why didn’t she say anything?
>Hana didn’t react like this. What do you have against helping Keira?
>Keep your mouth shut until you figure out what’s going on
>Something else

>>3248185
>>You didn’t know she felt this way. I'm sorry.
Let's not accuse Laki of stuff.
>Something else
"What do you mean, Laki? Why would I ever think you aren't cute?"
I'm feeling like Herb has like no idea what's going on here.

>>3248185
>First, you definitely aren’t doing something wrong, so don’t worry about that. I’m sorry I’ve made you feel like that.

>Second, there’s definitely something I’m not understanding here, isn’t there?

>>3248185
>>3248185
>Laki, please calm down. You don’t know what you did
But without the "Calm down" part. Never tell an upset woman to calm down.
>You didn’t know she felt this way. Why didn’t she say anything?
>How can you possibly think you're not cute?

>>3248185
>You don’t know what you did
>You didn’t know she felt this way. Why didn’t she say anything?
>How can you possibly think you're not cute?
Do NOT tell her to calm down, just like >>3248230 said

As >>3248230 said, don't ask her to calm down.
>Something else
She's one of the cutest, most amazing girls ever! Why would she ever think otherwise? I mean, we HAVE told her that before, and we weren't lying!

>>3248225
>>3248230
Mix these

So, once we do figure out what we’ve volunteered for, I say we tell Laki that we’ll call Keira and apologize that we misunderstood and that we’ll support her, just not in those specific ways.

>>3248290
But she was so happy....

>>3248306
So was Laki, and one of those two is already sleeping with us, and could crush our skulls with her thighs if we piss her off.

>>3248306
It’ll be disappointing for her to hear, but, well, the mistake was in the two of them having poor communication skills.

>>3248319
>>3248324
It's okay, Laki will relent once she sees Keira's sad face. Nobody wants to make Keira cry.

>>3248335
There are limits, anon

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“Maybe I’ll just invite all of our female friends! You can have a go at everybody since I’m not girl enough for you!” She furiously starts punching a group message into her pokedex.

“Woah, woah. Laki.” You gently reach forward to hold her hand. “I don’t know what I did to make you feel like that, but I’m sorry.”

“Sorry you got caught! I-” She pauses. “Alright. You told me about it, but you still...you’re not that...” She looks at you, then Belladonna, then her own reflection in one of the wall mirrors. She looks conflicted and confused. “Let me think for a second.”

You give her a moment. In that time, Belladonna seems to have noticed something was amiss and rushes over. She looks worried, takes Laki’s hand, and puts it on yours.

“Bella...” Laki says, looking heartbroken. “It’s alright. I didn’t mean to scare you.” She sighs. “Or you, Soft Hands. I did it again. I lost my temper before I thought.”

“Well, obviously I haven’t been letting you know how cute you are.” You start. “I can’t believe you don’t realize that.”

“Stop...”

“You’re one of the cutest, most amazing girls ever. I wasn’t lying when I said that before. And I don’t mind reminding you every day.” You risk putting your hand on her head, pushing it through her hair.

She leans into it despite herself. “Do you really mean that?”

“Of course! The one thing I know right now for certain is that you’re adorable.”

She indulges in you patting her head, stroking her hair, and touching her cheeks for awhile. She forces herself to stop, and clasps your hand. “I don’t know how someone who always knows what to say has so little idea what other people are saying.”

You’re still very confused, but Laki shifts closer again.

“Alright. Think back on your talk with Keira. What do you think she specifically came to you for? Why is she looking for help in learning about her role as a fertility priestess from her closest male friend when he has no idea how any of the clergy stuff works?”

You think for a moment. Then another. Then you shoot up.

“There it is.” She almost laughs. “At least I don’t have to be alone in feeling foolish.”

“I didn’t mean to-”

“I believe you.” She can’t help but be amused at your action, despite still trying to stay a little mad.

“She was talking about-”

“Yep. Giving her the ol' pride.”
>Why didn’t Hana say anything?
>How are you going to break the news to Keira? She looked so happy
>You feel like such an idiot. This feels terrible
>Forgot all that. Keep letting Laki know how cute she is
>Well, what can you do but laugh?
>Something else

>>3248503
>Why didn’t Hana say anything?
>How are you going to break the news to Keira? She looked so happy
>You feel like such an idiot. This feels terrible

>>3248503
>>Why didn’t Hana say anything?
>How are you going to break the news to Keira? She looked so happy
>You feel like such an idiot. This feels terrible

>>3248503
>Why didn’t Hana say anything?
>How are you going to break the news to Keira? She looked so happy
>You feel like such an idiot. This feels terrible

>>3248503
>Something else
Ask Laki what to do. She might like being included in the decision making here. As tempting as it is, going back to calling her cute looks too much like misdirection now.

>>3248503
>Why didn’t Hana say anything?
>How are you going to break the news to Keira? She looked so happy
>You feel like such an idiot. This feels terrible

>>3248503

>>3248539
Supporting this

>>3248553
>>3248520
Whoops wrong Id this is actually my vote.

>>3248520
>>3248503
>>3248539
I'll supoort this writ-in.

>>3248503

>>3248520
>>3248539
These two seem like the best idea.

After an encounter with a mad dead god, the high emotions of Abi and Meara, and a quick misunderstanding with Laki, Herb has to be exhausted.

>>3248503
>Just take a nap in her arms. You’ll figure everything out, later.

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“Why didn’t Hana say anything?” You hold your head in your hands.

Laki raises an eyebrow. “...”

“Right.” You say, feeling even more silly.

“Let me guess. She just slobbered and muttered something under her breath, right?”

“I wouldn’t say slobbered...” You say, getting Laki’s point. “I feel like such an idiot. How did I miss all the clues?”

“You missed plenty of signs when you were massaging me before you claimed me.” Laki drinks most of her glass, making a face. “Honestly it’s not that surprising when I think about it. But don’t feel like an idiot, Soft Hands. You’re just... okay you’re a bit dense when it comes to some things. But you can’t be perfect. Just like how you’re helping balance me and my temper out, it’s up to me and Hana to help you with some stuff.”

You look up at her. “How am I going to break it to Keira? She looked so happy.”

“Did she?” Laki taps the glass on the table. “Hm.” That’s a scary face.

“I need your help. What should I...what should we do?”

Laki looks pleased you asked. “Alright. Relax. When she comes back, I’ll take her aside and explain everything.”

“You will?”

She gives that funny smile of hers. “Well, don’t take it the wrong way, but given the record, it’s a better idea than you doing it. I insist. I want to talk to her about it.”
>Thanks, Laki!
>We should call her right now
>No no. It’s alright. You can break the news
>Umm, you’re just going to talk, right?
>We’ll do it together
>Something else

>>3248644
>We’ll do it together
I have to accept some part of the blame myself. It's my fault we're in this situation in the first place.

>>3248644
>Thanks, Laki
What could go wrong?

>>3248644
>>Umm, you’re just going to talk, right?

>>3248644
>Thanks, Laki!
>We should call her right now,
>Since I need to talk to her about the spirit anyways.

Talk to her together about the spirit, then hand her off to just Laki so we don’t fuck it up.

>>3248644
>>We’ll do it together
"I'd feel bad letting fix my mistake all by yourself. Unless you don't want me to be there..."

>>3248644
>We’ll do it together
Fits after her balancing each other comment.

Poor Herb thought it was gonna be all tea and paint and meditation.

>>3248644
>We’ll do it together
Imma go on the record here and say I'd like it to happen anyway.

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“Thanks, Laki.” You say. “But we should do it together.”

“It’s no problem.” She says. “I can handle it.”

"I'd feel bad letting fix my mistake all by yourself. Unless you don't want me to be there..."

She shakes her head. “No problem. We’ll do it together.”

The two of you cuddle a bit as you watch Hana’s battle. It’s been an emotional day.

“Finish it with Aqua Jet!” Hana commands, getting the last blow in. She’s been tapping her foot and really getting loose. Laki’s been moving a bit back and forth with you in her arms as well, too.

Hana has a quick post-battle chat with the person she fought, and comes running back to you. “Thanks for waiting. That was pretty fun. I like how this gym works.”

“Good battling.” Laki compliments Hana and Tirtouga. “Nice speed.

You, Laki, and Hana gather your things. It’s only when Laki hiccups and stumbles against you that you realize how many drinks she’s been having.

Patrons are starting to slowly come in. You guess business hours are starting. It’s still mostly empty, though.


>Let’s go!
>Wait, you wanted to do one last thing while you’re here
>Something else

>>3248769
>Wait, you wanted to do one last thing while you’re here
>Wish Meara good luck.
>Ask if she would teach Bella Petal Dance.

She did say she might teach us some dance moves...

And I’d like to be able to gather those petals to make Roserade tea.

>>3248769
>Let’s go!

>>3248769
>Let’s go!

>>3248769
>Let’s go!

>>3248785
Oh yeah, that is a good idea. I'd skip out on bringing her evaluation up entirely, though. I doubt she's feeling to good about that at the moment.

>>3248769
To clarify, my vote is this.
>>3248814

>>3248769
Backing
>>3248785

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[Need a tiebreaker, even if it's a repeat]

>>3248845

I guess I'll break the tie, for this. >>3248785

>>3248785
>>3248845
I'll support this

>>3248845
Ask her to teach petal dance

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“Wait, we should stop into Meara’s office before we go.” You tell the girls.

“She did offer to teach us moves.” Laki says. “Might be good to check on her, too.”

You nod. That’s what you were thinking. The three of you, and the pokemon, all go through the strange, smelly hallway where her office has to be by process of elimination. You knock on the door, then after a few seconds, you’re let in.

“Back again? Oh. That’s right.” Meara says, shuffling something off of her desk before you can see. “If you still want to learn a move, I’ll teach it. Although most of them I have a TM for.”

You and Laki step forward. “Yeah, of course.”

“Well, feel free to rummage through the bin. If you want me to teach one instead, just let me know.”
>Can you teach Belladonna Petal Dance?
>Dark Pulse
>Knock Off
>Snatch
>Thief
>Sucker Punch
>Punishment
>Dark Pulse
>Something else

>>3248893
>Can you teach Belladonna Petal Dance?

>>3248893
>Can you teach Belladonna Petal Dance

>>3248893
>Can you teach Belladonna Petal Dance?

>>3248893
>Can you teach Belladonna Petal Dance?
"I'm pretty sure she'd love to learn it, and maybe if you don't have a TM, Bella and I can learn it together!"

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[Let's have some fun! Give me some rolls!]

>>3248983
Rollin!

Rolled 67 (1d100)

>>3248983
Rolling for maximum overfunk.

Rolled 61 (1d100)

>>3248983
Rolling!

Rolled 17 (1d100)

>>3248983

Rolled 16 (1d100)

>>3248988
Whoops. I fucked up. Oh well, rolling to see what I would have gotten.

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“Can you teach Belladonna Petal Dance?” You ask. "I'm pretty sure she'd love to learn it, and maybe if you don't have a TM, Bella and I can learn it together!"

“I’m not really in a dancing mood.” She sighs. “What the hell. Dancing always makes things better.” She sniffs, getting up. “Not every day you get private lessons, so pay attention.” She winks.

You, Belladonna, Laki, and Hana all learn a few dance moves from Meara. Belladonna has an easy enough time getting the fundamentals of Petal Dance down, and somehow in the small room, nothing got destroyed.

“No no. Loosen up. Put your hips into it.” Meara instructs you. “Look at how she does it.”

Laki sways her wide hips, getting a nice rhythm.

“No fair. Laki’s got so much hip to use!” Hana jokes, having really loosened up herself.

“You’re not bad yourself, kiddo.” Mera takes a hold of Hana’s sides and helps guide her. “Unnaturally flexible in some ways, despite the lead feet.”

“I think it’s a titanium and steel mix, actually.”

Meara turns pale. Hana and Laki giggling puts her at ease.

You do alright, but give up trying to master the move yourself. At least Gobble can do it, even if you can’t. Belladonna is hopping around trying to show it off, too.

“Alright. It’s been fun, but it’s time you get a move on.” Meara starts motioning you out. “I’ve uh, got a lot to sort out.”


>Wish her luck and leave it at that. She'll figure it out
>Apologize for Abigail
>Tell her how you can relate
>Take her aside for a private talk about spirits
>Something else

Gotta get to work. Good luck guys!

>>3249089
>>Take her aside for a private talk about spirits
I know this is just some more bad news, but it's better for her to know than not.

>>3249089
>Wish her luck and leave it at that. She'll figure it out
If it's just wishing her luck in response to something she said, I think it's fine.

>>3249089
>Take her aside for a private talk about spirits

>>3249089
>Wish her luck and leave it at that. She'll figure it out
We'll sound like a crazy person if we start babbling about spirits

>>3249118
Better to sound crazy, I think, than do nothing at all. Peoples lives are in real danger because of the Fugs.

>>3249118
[red]test[red]

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[Need a tiebreaker again]

>>3249089
>Take her aside for a private talk about spirits

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“We should talk.” You tell Meara.

“Uhh, okay.”

“Privately, if you don’t mind. It’s important.” You think of how you can talk about this.

She looks a bit concerned. “Can I ask what it’s about?”

“Spirits, and um, how they can influence your life.” You say bluntly.

She frowns. “I don’t want to be rude, but I’m happy with my religious beliefs and I’m not looking to shop around.” She takes a small Arceus pendant she had under her neckline. It looks just like the one your mom has.


>Oh. Great! Keep strong to your current faith, then, no matter what weird dreams you might have
>Just come out with it and talk about the two Rayquazas
>Try to explain that you have aura powers, can’t say much, but a malignant spirit was looking to recruit her in her time of desperation
>On second thought, nevermind
>Write-in how to explain this
>Something

>>3249133
Only OP ID gets formatting.

>>3249190
>Try to explain that you have aura powers, can’t say much, but a malignant spirit was looking to recruit her in her time of desperation
We can have a priestess come by later to verify that what we're saying is true, if she wants.

>>3249190
>Write-in how to explain this
"I'm not trying to make a religious statement. I'm just warning you that a powerful and less than personable pokemon with aura powers was very interested in your feelings of desperation during your fight with Laki."

>>3249190
>Try to explain that you have aura powers, can’t say much, but a malignant spirit was looking to recruit her in her time of desperation
>>3249194
I like this anons suggestion too.

getting connection errors

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"I'm not trying to make a religious statement. I'm just warning you that a powerful and less than personable pokemon with aura powers was very interested in your feelings of desperation during your fight with Laki."

She looks at Laki and Hana for a sign of some sort prank.

“Herb knows his stuff when it comes to...this stuff.” Hana vouches. “I don’t really get it, but you can trust him.”

She still looks skeptical.

“I can have a Ghost priestess vouch for what I’m saying, if you want. Well, she’s changing careers, but she’d never lie.”

Meara raises an eyebrow. “I’ve seen some strange things on these islands, and I’m an open minded person. I believe you.” She clutches the Arceus symbol. “It left though, right?”

You nod.

She sighs. “Good. Good.” She starts going into her desk drawer, producing a few superstitious symbols and charms. You’re no religious expert, but everything your mom has taught you about Arceus tells you these things aren’t part of those teachings. But you guess Meara has her own beliefs. “I’ve felt spirits in my old house, too. My realtor thought I was crazy to let it go for that price, but I needed out.”

Laki rolls her eyes as Meara tells you about all the times she’s felt spirits or had supernatural experiences. You eventually have to tell her that someone is waiting on you during a pause in the stories, and she lets you go.

Still, you feel like Meara will keep your warning in mind and be in a good mindset if it comes back for her.

“Yo.” Abigail gives a one-fingered wave as you all exit the building. “Took long enough. What if I got mugged out here?”

“Then some mugger will have enough money for a small cup of coffee and you’ll have to start your life savings from scratch again.” Laki doesn’t miss a beat.

They both share an odd smirk with each other. You can never tell when they’re getting along or fighting. Maybe they get along best when they fight.

“So, where are we going next?” Abigail asks. “Right to the festival?”

You consider the time. You’d arrive fairly late at night, and it’s going for a full week.


>Yeah! Let’s go!
>Wait, let’s buy clothes for it first
>We’ll go in the morning. Let’s camp for the night
>You want to stop by the Dark type temple first while you’re here
>Something else

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[That's it for tonight. Thanks for coming!]

>>3249264
>Yeah! Let’s go!
I want to be able to experience the whole scope of the festivities.

>>3249271
Thanks Gobble! Is Saturday going to be the next live?

>>3249264
>>Wait, let’s buy clothes for it first
Let's get fabulous!
>>3249271
Thanks, Gobble! You are the best! You really turn these small scenes into high drama stuff. It's my jam. I'm having a ball.

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>>3249285
>Thanks Gobble! Is Saturday going to be the next live?
[Most likely. I don't know what to expect this week. There's a possible chance we might run before then, but don't hold me to that.]

>>3249264
>Yeah! Let’s go!

I’m looking forwards to getting our girls in some kimono for the festival!

>>3245230
>Are we reaching 'eye' level danger with evil protector?
>[Not sure what you mean. Can you rephrase?]
Robin's eye, like maiming level danger from the protector as in next time you see him be careful or someone could take some serious physical/spiritual harm

>>3250234
It’s the soul of a mad, genocidal dragon-god, master of the creators of the land and seas.

I’d say we’ve blown past maiming and skipped to Mewtwo/Giratina.

Let’s not take our chances.

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>>3250234
[Ah. Sorry. Right now it's stretched thin, but I'd recommend avoiding direct confrontation]

I wonder if they’ll get 3 separate weddings and 3 anniversaries or one big group one.

I now pronounce you man and wife, and man and wife, and wife and wife. You may now kiss, uh, the brides.

>>3253786
>Keira finishes speaking, watching the three with a wide and earnest smile as the crowd cheers in the background.

>To anyone watching it seems innocent enough, a close friend who's excited and happy for those she's near and dear to.

>What little do they know, she's all of that but ALSO wondering just how they're going to "Thank" her during the evening's private celebrations.

>>3254754
They’ll probably want to be alone, celebrating their entry to married life.

>>3255522
True, the four of them would probably like some privacy, at least, if Hana doesn't get her way.

I’m beginning to think at least half of us are real horny at any given time.

Wooo, feels good to be caught up with this quest and after dropping it like a whole year ago out sheer laziness.

>>3258460
As someone who's just binged the last 40 threads, i can't tell if you're right, or if Herbs just becoming more open and forward, that or it has something to do with the "Keira Renaissance"

>>3241376
Maybe this is a dumb question as someone who hasn't read this quest but how the fuck do you guys go through over 100 episodes and still have a Raggenrolla?

>>3262364
He doesn’t want to evolve. Thing is he really hasn’t needed to. He’s like that one bellsprout that almost swept ash in the Pokemon championships in Kanto.

>>3262364
Ash has gone a lot longer than that without evolving Pikachu.

>>3262364
He's like 'Bones' McCoy who is afraid to use transporters because it kills you and your clone lives your life on the other side.

Evolution in Mace's mind ultimately kills you on a fundamental level and a new pokemon lives on in your place.

>>3262797
Or at the very least, it changes you.

[We're going to have to push back today's thread to another day. Sorry. I had some personal stuff come up and am looking for a new place to live. Crashing away from my place and sorting what's going on with pets and my stuff.]