[PTU] Act 2: Train City Panic

[23:44] <@TheBMW> We return to our four trailblazers as they stand outside Bobby's cabin.  They had just learned that the nearest piece of civilization, Anville Town, is just an hour of walking away.  The trip may be tough, but at last they have a beacon of hope in this god-forsaken forest.

[23:44] <@TheBMW> <START>

[23:47] * Tom-Dawson hoists the hand holding the pokeball into the air triumphantly for a moment, before walking back over to the entrance of the cabin.

[23:47] * DimJim ([email protected]) has joined #WhereTheFuckAreWe

[23:47] <Tom-Dawson> "Yeah, thanks for the help pal. Ya been a real sweetheart."

[23:48] * Cobalt begins walking. Home sweet home, or some shit like that. He keeps an eye out for any trails, roads or signs leading the way. He still doesn't quite recognize the area yet.

[23:49] <@TheBMW> <Bobby> "Nah, was nothin'.  Just helpin' out some people in need.  Good luck out there, and don't waste the booze!"

[23:50] <@TheBMW> There appears to be a small trail carved through the forest, one that appears to head towards Anville.

[23:51] * Tom-Dawson waves at the man before sauntering along the trail.

[23:52] * Cobalt follows the trail, kicking rocks along the way.

[23:55] * Sammy_Vernare is picking up the trail position, wondering what the hell she was going to do with these three.

[23:55] <Cobalt> "Any of you peeps ever been to Assville town?"

[23:56] <Tom-Dawson> "Nah. Heard good things 'bout the handiwork though."

[23:56] <@TheBMW> The Growlithe follows along by Sammy's side.  It seems to be watching out for trouble.  Meanwhile, Rhodes and his own pup stay towards the back.

[23:56] <Sammy_Vernare> "I don't know anything about this place, really..." It's worth noting that Sammy's accent is a bit blatant, despite speaking the language well enough.

[23:58] <Cobalt> "Not missing much. Just a bunch of cranky dudes doing railroad work and a lot of dirt and trains."

[00:00] <Sammy_Vernare> "And these trains do not go...anywhere?"

[00:01] <Cobalt> "Man, all over the country. If it has a station, the train goes there, probably. Nimbasa's the biggest connector, but Anville does all the work for it. Isn't anywhere you can't ride the rails too."

[00:02] <Sammy_Vernare> "Driftveil?"

[00:02] <@TheBMW> The trip goes peacefully for now, but the trail quickly gives way to yet another clearing.  Here a Patrat is playing with another blue humanoid dog.  A bird watches from a distance, masked in the shadows slightly.

[00:02] * Cobalt covers his eyes with his hand, giving a closer look to the bird. What is that?

[00:03] <@TheBMW> It looks like a Pidove, but something seems... off about it.

[00:04] <Cobalt> "Weird. Don't see many of these things out of the city." He approaches the bird. He stays clear of the dog and the patrat for now, not wanting to get punched in the nuts or anything.

[00:05] * Tom-Dawson looks at Cobalt. "Wha'now?"

[00:05] <@TheBMW> Sammy eyes up the bird as well.  It resembles a Starly in coloraton, but its physique is hardly the same.  You figure it must be a Unovan species.

[00:06] <@TheBMW> The dog and rat don't seem to notice Cobalt for now, and he shuffles by to approach the bird.  It eyes him as he approaches, almost as if annoyed.

[00:06] * Cobalt squats, pointing at the bird. "This."

[00:06] * Cobalt picks up a nearby rock, and tosses it toward the bird. Not so much to strike it, but just to see it's reaction, or maybe to be a dick.

[00:06] <Tom-Dawson> "It's a bird. Lovely. Can we get the fuck on with it?"

[00:07] <Sammy_Vernare> "What, the bird? Is nothing to be surprised at. The port has lots of them all the time - don't stand underneath, though."

[00:07] <Cobalt> "Yeah whatever man. I'll catch up."

[00:08] <@TheBMW> The rock goes wide slightly, bouncing off the branch instead of making contact.  The Pidove does a sidestep of sorts from atop it, glaring at Cobalt.

[00:09] <Cobalt> "Heh." He continues to be a troll. He picks up another rock, aiming at branch again.

[00:11] <Sammy_Vernare> "Is he always this...thick?" Sammy murmurs to Tom as she picks up the pace.

[00:11] * Tom-Dawson grabs Cobalt's wrist before walking on. "Now's not the time to be a dick."

[00:11] <@TheBMW> Solid hit!  The branch shakes slightly, angering the bird even more.  It suddenly leaps off from its perch (oddly enough, not using its wings on the descent), and rushes at... the blue dog?

[00:12] <Cobalt> "Back off, man. Jeez." Jerks his arm away from Tom, then watches the bird leap and attack the dog. What the hell?

[00:13] <@TheBMW> The talons of the bird draw blood from the dog, causing it to fall over in surprise.  The Patrat backs up, barking and growling at the attacker.  As the blue hound stands back up, it glares at the bird, and it returns the favor.  There they remain, not even moving.

[00:14] * Tom-Dawson stops to look at the spectacle.

[00:14] <Cobalt> "Shit, man." Why is the bird mad at the dog and not him? "Chill, bird."

[00:14] <Tom-Dawson> "Now lookit what you've done."

[00:15] <Sammy_Vernare> "...Can we stop acting like corn children and actually get a move on?" Sammy isn't having any of this shit. She's not above using that either.

[00:16] * Cobalt walks over, nudging the bird aside with is foot, trying to block it from the dog. He tries to mind his distance, avoiding touching it with any fleshy parts of his body.

[00:16] <@TheBMW> Suddenly, the Pidove goes for another slice.  The Riolu retaliates, moving at breakneck speeds with an extended fist.

[00:17] <@TheBMW> Smack!  The bird goes flying back, skidding along the grass.  Smoke and darkness starts to emanate from its body, and its current form slowly melts away.  After a few moments, a black fox-like creature stands where the Pidove did, growling angrily at the Riolu.

[00:18] * Cobalt points at the bird. "Fuck, man! That's some Silent Hill shit!"

[00:19] <Tom-Dawson> "Eh, sod it."

[00:20] * Cobalt is in the middle of this fight, so he needs to be on his toes. He uses Agility

[00:20] * Tom-Dawson begins advancing on the fox.

[00:20] <Sammy_Vernare> "hey! What's the big idea! I saw it first!"

[00:22] <Cobalt> "I call winner!"

[00:32] <@TheBMW> The Zorua and Riolu seem completely unwilling to stand down, even though both are already heavily injured.  Whoever gets the next strike in might be the victor.

[00:32] <Sammy_Vernare> As if to prove her point, Sammy skips and suddenly appears behind the zoura as she conks it on the head!

[00:33] <@TheBMW> The fox suddenly shifts, gliding past Sammy's fist with another sidestep.  It didn't even turn to watch her attack, it just... knew.

[00:33] * Cobalt feels dazed by all of this SPEED

[00:33] <@TheBMW> The two Pokemon leap at each other, moving with all their might...

[00:34] * Cobalt watches in slow motion "wwrrrrrooooooooaaaaaaaahhhh"

[00:35] <@TheBMW> In a flash, the two pass each other, landing on the opposite side.  The Riolu starts to let out a laugh, but then suddenly collapses.  A huge gash has been left in its torso, causing it to faint.

[00:37] * Sammy_Vernare can't help but smirk. that fox pokemon not only evaded her attack, but managed to land a decisive blow in the blink of an eye. She really wants this thing now

[00:37] <Cobalt> "Rad, fox-bird."

[00:37] * Tom-Dawson attempts to punch... a fox.

[00:39] <@TheBMW> SMACK!  The fox had started to frollic over to its fallen foe before getting hit with Tom's fist.  It smacks into the grass with a loud thud, passing out instantly.

[00:40] <Sammy_Vernare> "What was that for?" Sammy appears behind Tom and raps him on the head with her knuckles. "I called it!"

[00:40] * Tom-Dawson picks up the two fainted Pokemon, before looking at the Patrat. "I'm gonna go get them some help. Wanna follow?"

[00:41] <Cobalt> "And to think you guys wanted to just keep walking." He says smugly. He walks over checking on the loser blue dog. "Man, you let that bitchy poser kick your ass." He picks it up, looking at its wounds.

[00:41] <@TheBMW> The Patrat just gives a horrified stare, but manages a nod after a few seconds.  What the fuck just happened?

[00:41] <Cobalt> "If we wanna help 'em we can just take 'em to Anville. Might as well."

[00:42] * Tom-Dawson carries the two Pokemon under his arms as he picks up the pace.

[00:42] <@TheBMW> The Riolu actually seems better off than the Zorua, oddly enough.  A large gash has been left on its belly, but otherwise it seems fine.

[00:42] <Sammy_Vernare> "I get the fox thing! It was cool, evaded my teleport and everything!"

[00:42] * Cobalt takes off his shirt. "Hey man, lemme carry that blue dude."

[00:43] <Tom-Dawson> "You ain't gettin' shit, Cobalt. Being a dick for no reason is my department."

[00:43] <Cobalt> "Stop being a cunt. Let me put this on it before it bleeds to death, you tool."

[00:44] * Cobalt grabs Tom's Riolu-carrying arm.

[00:46] * Tom-Dawson shakes off Cobalt. "I'm more worried about the other one. And besides, we got alcohol for that."

[00:47] * Cobalt glares at Tom.

[00:47] <Cobalt> "Whatever man, let's just go."

[00:48] <Cobalt> "What kind of teleport shit was that, anyway?" He looks at Sammy.

[00:48] <Sammy_Vernare> "Magic." Sammy says, as if it's something anyone could do.

[00:48] <Tom-Dawson> "'S called reflexes. You might get them someday."

[00:49] <Cobalt> "Fuck off."

[00:50] * Cobalt isn't in the mood for a mysterious secret girl and a toolbag.

[00:52] * Cobalt kicks rocks.

[00:52] <TheBMW> The group doesn't get very far before three flashes of blue dart in front of them.  Before they can react, a hand flies out and smacks Tom's arm.  Not harmfully, but with enough force to make a point.

[00:52] <TheBMW> Three more blue dogs stand in front of the party, their arms crossed.

[00:52] <Tom-Dawson> "Oi!"

[00:53] <Tom-Dawson> "Fuck's that for?"

[00:53] <Sammy_Vernare> "Woah, what now?"

[00:53] <Cobalt> "That's what you get, toolbag."

[00:53] <Cobalt> "But uh..." Three blue dogs. Fuck. They hurt.

[00:54] <TheBMW> The largest of the three gestures towards Tom's cargo, then to the ground.

[00:54] <Tom-Dawson> "How about no. What say you that I go and have them fixed up?"

[00:55] * Sammy_Vernare backs up. "Ive no part in this."

[00:55] <TheBMW> To this, the pack leader looks confused.  A voice suddenly speaks in the back of everyone's minds, as if placed there intentionally.

[00:55] <TheBMW> <Leader> "Fixed... up?"

[00:56] <Cobalt> "Shit. Brainwave stuff. Fixed up, like. Healed. Not broken. Uhhh.." How do you speak dog?

[00:56] <Tom-Dawson> "So that's what Huey meant about fucking with minds. Anywho, you know, patched up, healed, etc.?"

[00:56] <TheBMW> <Leader> "Yes... now I do.  You wish to help him?"

[00:57] * Sammy_Vernare looks at the thing bug-eyed. the fuck was this?

[00:57] <Tom-Dawson> "Yes, both him and the fox here."

[00:59] <Sammy_Vernare> "Wait...this not hallucination, annoying idiot talk to blue dog pokemon and it talks back?"

[00:59] <Tom-Dawson> "That would imply he was talking to Cobalt."

[01:00] <Sammy_Vernare> "Either of you."

[01:01] <Cobalt> "Jedi mind shit. Man, you guys are rad." He holds up his pokeball. "Lookin out for each other and shit. Strong. Which one of you wants to fight me? When I win, I'm capturing you and teaching you how to REALLY fight." He glares at Tom and then Sammy. What a bunch of asses.

[01:02] <TheBMW> <Leader> "The fox... no.  No helping him.  Leave it with us."

[01:02] <Sammy_Vernare> "Why not?"

[01:02] <TheBMW> The three look amongst each other at Cobalt's offer, then directly at him.

[01:02] <Tom-Dawson> "Don't listen to him."

[01:03] <TheBMW> <Leader> "That is a Dark One.  They are malicious, evil.  They wish to destroy us.  We must destroy them first."

[01:03] <Cobalt> "Go play in traffic."

[01:03] * Tom-Dawson straightens up a bit. "But no, the fox comes with us. That guy provoked the whole thing to happen, so it's only right."

[01:03] <TheBMW> <Leader> "If the Dark One provoked violence, then it should be punished.  We would ensure that."

[01:04] * Tom-Dawson nudges Cobalt with a foot. "I meant that guy."

[01:04] <Cobalt> "Man, don't worry about it. This chick is probably going to capture it and teach it to have tea parties or something."

[01:05] <TheBMW> <Leader> "...Capture?"

[01:05] <Tom-Dawson> "See? Completely off his rockers."

[01:06] <Sammy_Vernare> "I'm going to show it how to use its powers without resorting to picking fights."

[01:06] * Cobalt sighs.

[01:06] * Cobalt wants to punch Tom in the teeth, but he contains himself.

[01:06] <TheBMW> <Leader> "You would try to pacify a Dark One?  No, that is foolish.  They are born of chaos, they would never bend to you."

[01:07] <Tom-Dawson> "I shouted at one of those underground dragon things until it ran away. I think we can manage."

[01:07] <Sammy_Vernare> "Do I look like I care? Worst case scenario, it's no longer your problem. Might isn't just brute force - it's knowing how to use it."

[01:07] <TheBMW> Suddenly, one of the other Riolu puts a paw on the leader's shoulder.  The two turn away for a moment, seeming to brain-talk.

[01:08] <TheBMW> <Leader> "And what would you do with the Dark One once it is healed?"

[01:08] * Cobalt kicks some more rocks out of frustration and boredom

[01:09] <Tom-Dawson> "Dunno. Possibly let miss prissy over there have it."

[01:09] <Sammy_Vernare> "I can still hear you, you know..."

[01:10] <Tom-Dawson> "I know."

[01:11] <Cobalt> "This one was pretending to be a bird and then it started some shit with your friend. It needs therapy or something, who knows."

[01:11] <TheBMW> <Leader> "Then so be it.  Ensure it never returns here, and you may do as you please with it.  Vile creature..."

[01:11] <TheBMW> <Leader> "Now, our brethren.  We expect to see it return here once it is healed."

[01:12] <Sammy_Vernare> "No issues there."

[01:13] * Tom-Dawson nods towards the Patrat. "Don't worry, this guy should be able to guide him back."

[01:13] * Cobalt gets an idea! "Yeah, and if one of you comes with me, you can make sure he gets back here with the rest of you."

[01:14] <TheBMW> The three hounds turn to each other, mentally discussing for a moment, then refocus on the party.

[01:15] <TheBMW> <Leader> "We will agree to the golden one's terms.  One of our own will accompany you, then guide our brethren back once he is healed."

[01:16] <Cobalt> "And if this guy's lying I'll help you kick his ass."

[01:16] <Tom-Dawson> "Good luck with that, whitey."

[01:17] * Tom-Dawson begins walking.

[01:17] <TheBMW> <Leader> "Perfect.  We will let you go on your way then."

[01:17] <TheBMW> The three dogs step aside, letting you continue on.

[01:17] * Cobalt puts his shirt back on, and continues the walk.

[01:17] <Sammy_Vernare> "Much appreciated." Sammy will take the fox thing and keep going. "See what good can happen when you don'tr try antagonizing everything you meet, yes?"

[01:18] <Cobalt> "Whatever man, that fox had it out for that dog. If he had issues with what I did he would have taken it out on me."

[01:19] * Cobalt turns to the blue dog following them. "These guys are lame, dog. Are your friends any better?"

[01:19] <Sammy_Vernare> "Or you could have not thrown rocks at it?"

[01:20] <Cobalt> "You guys were all like, 'ohh, it's just a bird, big deal, let's walk'. Now you're like, 'oh, this fox is cool i want to take it and love it.' Man, if it weren't for my rocks it woulda stayed back there on that tree being a dickhead."

[01:20] <TheBMW> <Dog> "Uhh, I guess.  They just act really... uhh... 'pompous' about things."

[01:20] <Tom-Dawson> "I don't think it's cool."

[01:20] <Tom-Dawson> "In fact, I think it's goddamn hideous."

[01:21] * Cobalt kicks another rock. "Man, I don't have patience for people like that. What's your name, dog? Do you have a name?"

[01:21] <Sammy_Vernare> "Not an excuse!" Sammy snaps as she suddenly pops right in front of Cobalt. "I may not know what shit of the bull you all insist on, but where I come from you do not attack random pokemon out of petty amusement!"

[01:22] * Cobalt recoils at her teleporting. "Maybe that's something me and your fox buddy have in common then, chill out! Let's just go."

[01:22] <Cobalt> "And no magic! Scary shit."

[01:23] <Sammy_Vernare> "That part, I cannot promise." Sammy spins around and keeps on the trail.

[01:23] * Cobalt would light a cigarette if he had one. He can't wait to be away from these trolls.

[01:24] * Sammy_Vernare shares similar sentiments, minus the smoking.

[01:39] <TheBMW> <Dog> "I'm uhh, not supposed to get personal along the way.  I'm just an escort."

[01:39] <TheBMW> As you continue walking, you start to see buildings pop up on the horizon.

[01:39] <Cobalt> "Whatever." At least they're almost there.

[01:40] * Sammy_Vernare sighs as she sees signs of civilization. "About time...I don't know how much more adventure I can take in one week."

[01:41] <TheBMW> The trail suddenly spits you out at the side of a single-lane road, one that winds through the wilderness haphazardously.  Ordinarily this would just be another sign of civilization, but you notice that an automobile is approaching from the distance.

[01:42] <Tom-Dawson> "Oh hey, roads!"

[01:43] * Tom-Dawson begins walking on the side of the road.

[01:43] * Cobalt wishes Tom would get hit.

[01:44] * Sammy_Vernare follows Tom, though she wouldn't complain if the driver was friendly enough to give them a lift. would save her from having to hear the boys whining about their tired feet if nothing else.

[01:45] <Tom-Dawson> "I wish I had my car right now."

[01:46] <Cobalt> "Maybe you'll get this one wrecked too."

[01:46] <TheBMW> As it continues to get closer, you notice that the vehicle is a black SUV of sorts.  It seems like a fairly new model, possibly a luxury model too.

[01:46] <TheBMW> Strangely enough, it seems to slow as it approaches.

[01:46] * Tom-Dawson picks up on the sound of slowing car and turns around.

[01:47] <Sammy_Vernare> "Hello?" Sammy puts on her best "cute lost glasses girl" face.

[01:48] <TheBMW> Rhodes has taken notice, and has started to flag the vehicle down.  "About time."

[01:49] * Cael stops the car, his eyes more on the pokemon than the people.

[01:49] <Cael> "Ride?"

[01:49] <TheBMW> <Rhodes> "Yes, to Anville Town.  Are you headed that way?"

[01:50] * Tom-Dawson walks over to the guy in the car. "Got space in the back?"

[01:50] * Cael shrugs. "Anville?"

[01:51] <TheBMW> <Rhodes> "Yes, it's just up ahead.  We need to take a train, we've been lost for a while now."

[01:51] * Cael looks at Tom. "Yah" Sounding more like a grunt than an attempt to form an actual word.

[01:54] * Cael reaches back and pushes open the side door.

[01:54] * Tom-Dawson awkwardly tries to enter the vehicle carrying two unconscious Pokemon. "Right then."

[01:54] <Sammy_Vernare> "Thanks a lot. We owe you one..." She'll pause, not knowing the man's name.

[01:54] <Cobalt> "Thanks, dude." He hops in.

[01:55] <TheBMW> Rhodes and Plymouth climb inside the vehicle, giving their thanks as they go.  The two Growlithes and the escorting Riolu follow after.

[01:57] * Cael waits for everyone to get in then drives toward the town.

[01:58] <TheBMW> The SUV roars as it heads down the head towards Anville.  You should be there any minute now.

[01:59] * Cobalt can almost taste the freedom.

[02:02] <Sammy_Vernare> "So...about how far is a train from here to Driftveil?" Sammy has to try and figure out how she's going to get home, after all...

[02:02] <TheBMW> You pass by a sign, welcoming you to Anville Town.  Then, almost as quickly, you are thrown into the center of town.  This place is small to say the least, though the main street seems to be lined with a multitude of small shops and restaurants.  There's plenty of space to park here, as there isn't much activity going on.

[02:02] * Tom-Dawson tries to not stack the Pokemon.

[02:03] * Cael finds a place to park and opens the doors.

[02:03] <TheBMW> No parking meters?  That's odd, but convenient.

[02:04] * Tom-Dawson gets out of car. "Thanks pal. Know of any places to help with cases like these?"

[02:04] * Cobalt looks around. He considers visiting his parents for a minute as he gets out of the car. He looks around to see what's changed since he last came.

[02:04] <Cael> "No."

[02:05] <Sammy_Vernare> "...really? It's that small a town?"

[02:05] <Cael> "Never.  been.  here"

[02:05] <Cobalt> "So what brings you to this dump, then?

[02:05] <Tom-Dawson> "Oh well. Thanks for the ride at least."

[02:06] <TheBMW> Hardly anything has changed, now that Cobalt looks this place over.  Outside of a few redone buildings, everything seems the same.  Even most of the businesses are the same, including that one diner he always ate at.

[02:06] <Cael> "Find. Lab.  Examine.  Pokemon."

[02:07] <TheBMW> <Rhodes> "A lab?  I might be able to help with that.  I need a moment though.  Do you have a phone?"

[02:07] <Cael> "No."

[02:07] <TheBMW> <Rhodes> "...Right."

[02:08] <Sammy_Vernare> "Hmm..." Sammy seems pensive before speaking. "Are you not from around here?" She isn't speaking in a language Tom or Cobalt understand, though - maybe her mother tongue would get the point across easier?

[02:08] <TheBMW> Rhodes seems to look around for a pay phone, but doesn't seem to have much luck.  With some angered grumbling, he quickly walks off towards one of the nearby restaurants.

[02:08] <Cobalt> "We should be able to get some help, not far from here. Over this way." He leads them toward a pokemon center, assuming there ever is or was one he'd know about.

[02:09] <Cael> "No.  Kanto."

[02:10] * Tom-Dawson walks towards the pokemon center, pokemon still under his arms.

[02:10] <TheBMW> Rhodes seems to take notice, then follows after Cobalt.  It seems he doesn't want to get separated for whatever reason.

[02:11] * Cael follows toward the center.

[02:11] <Cobalt> "Not far from the trains. Kind of a shitty center, but it works, I guess."

[02:11] <Sammy_Vernare> "I see." Sammy nods, focusing herself to change the inflection of her voice as she goes into a language Cael is likely more fluent in. "Is there much we need to know about the area?"

[02:12] <TheBMW> Cobalt leads the group through the center of town, which quickly gives way for the largest trainyard you've ever seen.  You walk over a bridge that extends over at least five separate rails, leaving you on a small ridge.  Here the Pokemon Center stands, with a few smaller buildings scattered around, likely houses.

[02:12] * Cael shrugs.

[02:13] * Tom-Dawson barges into the center.

[02:13] <Sammy_Vernare> "Not used to the language around here, I take it?" She'll try to smile, get the man to say at least something that can be useful.

[02:13] * Cobalt tries to bum a cigarette off of someone standing outside the pokemon center.

[02:14] <Cael> "Not.  Used.  Speaking"

[02:14] <TheBMW> The Pokemon Center is quaint to say the least.  The main lobby is small, with just the front desk and a small waiting area.  A stairway leads up to the second floor, with a sign overhead reading LODGING.

[02:15] <TheBMW> Nobody seems to be here, aside from the nurse and a small Audino at her side.

[02:15] * Tom-Dawson walks up to the front desk. "Customers!"

[02:16] <TheBMW> The nurse snaps to attention.  It seems she was completely focused on the waiting room's television.

[02:16] <TheBMW> <Nurse> "Oh, good morning!  I didn't think any trains came through already."

[02:16] <TheBMW> <Rhodes> "They didn't.  Ma'am, can I use your phone?"

[02:17] <Tom-Dawson> "They weren't, we come from them avalon hills"

[02:17] * Cobalt waits outside. He stays quiet, taking in the sights of the town.

[02:17] * Sammy_Vernare eventually heads to the center, expecting their benefactor to follow her inside. If not, she won't force though.

[02:17] * Tom-Dawson dumps the two bodies to the desk. "I'd like to get these patched up."

[02:17] <TheBMW> <Nurse> "Right over there.  And... Avalon Hills?  That's odd, I thought nobody lived up there."

[02:17] <TheBMW> <Nurse> "Oh my!"

[02:18] <Sammy_Vernare> "That's the thing. We...just found ourselves there."

[02:18] <TheBMW> The nurse snatches the two fainted Pokemon up and darts off to the back room.

[02:18] <TheBMW> You notice that the other Riolu and the Patrat seem to want to come aong, but they stay for now.

[02:19] * Tom-Dawson looks at the other Pokemon. "Don't worry, she's a professional. I think."

[02:21] <TheBMW> Rhodes takes the phone and walks into the back-room as well, much to the nurse's likely chagrin.  With all the noise now absent, the television can be heard quite clearly.

[02:22] * Tom-Dawson looks up at the telly.

[02:22] * Cobalt comes into the pokemon center in time to sit down and catch anything of interest on TV!

[02:22] <TheBMW> <TV> "...We now take you back to our correspondent outside the Driftveil Inn, who has the details on what happened last night.  Amanda?"

[02:22] * Cael finds a chair to sit down on while he waits for the nurse to finish dealing with the other pokemon.

[02:23] <Sammy_Vernare> At the mention of Driftviel, Sammy turns to make sure she knows what's going on.

[02:23] <Tom-Dawson> "Oh hey, home."

[02:25] <TheBMW> <Amanda> "Thank you Phil.  Last night, a group of unidentified men entered the premises of the Driftveil Inn and kidnapped people staying there.  Among those taken is famed Sinnovian gym leader Byron Austin.  The sailors that he visited Driftveil with have refused to comment."

[02:26] <TheBMW> <Amanda> "Details on the incident are lacking.  However, one witness claimed that he found the emblem of the infamous Plasma terrorist group left behind at the scene of the crime."

[02:26] * Sammy_Vernare takes a step back, suddenly pale. "N-no way! This...what is this?"

[02:27] <Tom-Dawson> "Well THAT sounds familiar."

[02:27] <Tom-Dawson> "So, I figure a little trip home is in order for me. Any of you coming?"

[02:28] <TheBMW> <Amanda> "For now, local police and the Rangers are working diligently to find answers.  Back to you Phil."

[02:28] * Sammy_Vernare flinches as Tom speaks and is right in his face before he can even process what's going on. "Tell me what is going on."

[02:29] <TheBMW> <Phil> "In other news, a late-night raid on a scientific facility is believed to have occurred last night as well.  Eye-witness reports seem to match those given from the Driftveil Inn kidnappings.  For now, the Rangers have refused to comment on the coincidence."

[02:29] * Cobalt leans over, watching the TV. More Plasma bullshit. Great. This is going to make travel a lot harder.

[02:30] <TheBMW> The television then switches gears, going off on some story about unrest in Castelia City over the recent ban of Pokemon battling.  Typical sensationalism.

[02:31] * Cael mutters quietly, "So. car. belongs. plasma?"

[02:31] * Tom-Dawson leans a little away from Sammy. "Hello?"

[02:31] <Sammy_Vernare> "Tell me what is going on in driftveil."

[02:32] <Sammy_Vernare> It's very clear that Sammy is...quite determined to get this information.

[02:32] <Tom-Dawson> "What if I told you it might possibly be our kidnappers who did this?"

[02:33] <Sammy_Vernare> "I'd tell you that 'possibly' is a shit of the bull word. I was there! Tell me what is going on!"

[02:34] <Tom-Dawson> "Shit, if I told you what I knew, Huey'd have me kill you."

[02:34] <TheBMW> The nurse and Rhodes return from the back room, laughing slightly.

[02:35] <Sammy_Vernare> "I highly doubt that you could even scratch me, with my magic. Whomever the "hyuu-ee" person is, is the least of your worries right now."

[02:35] <TheBMW> <Nurse> "Haha, good one!  Now... ahem... your Pokemon will be taken care of shortly.  Sadly, they aren't in Pokeballs, so it'll take a short while to get them up.  Is there anything else you need?"

[02:36] * Cael places 4 pokeballs on the counter.

[02:36] * Tom-Dawson turns towards the Nurse. "Yeah! is there a hardware store in the vicinity?"

[02:36] <TheBMW> The nurse nods, passing the balls off to her Audino.  It snatches them up and places them in a nearby machine, then closes the hatch.  A light hum starts to fill the room.

[02:37] <TheBMW> <Nurse> "Hardware?  Yes, back in the center of town."

[02:37] * Tom-Dawson rushes out of the center.

[02:37] * Sammy_Vernare blinks and lets Tom go, despite the fact that she's shaking badly, her breath ragged.

[02:37] <TheBMW> <Rhodes> "Hey, wait!"

[02:37] <Sammy_Vernare> "I...that report...I was..."

[02:37] <TheBMW> Rhodes rushes out after him, leaving the others in the Pokemon Center.

[02:38] <Cobalt> "Hey lady. That Riolu you're patchin up needs to head back out into the wild with these others." He points to the riolu and the patrat. "Can that be arranged?"

[02:39] <TheBMW> <Nurse> "Certainly!  Why don't you wait though?  They should be up in a couple minutes."

[02:39] <Cobalt> "Right on."

[02:40] <Sammy_Vernare> "I...I need help." Sammy says, meekly.

[02:41] <TheBMW> <Nurse> "What's the matter, dear?"

[02:41] * Cobalt glances over at Sammy.

[02:41] <Sammy_Vernare> "That report...about the driftveil kidnappings...I..."

[02:42] <Sammy_Vernare> "I was one of them! I was at the inn last night with Byron! And if I'm here..."

[02:42] <Cobalt> "We should probably go to the police or somethin."

[02:42] <TheBMW> <Nurse> "Wait, you were one of the people kidnapped?!"

[02:43] <Sammy_Vernare> "Y-yeah! But if Byron's still missing..."

[02:43] <TheBMW> The nurse darts out from behind her desk and over to Sammy's side, looking her over carefully for any cuts or bruises.

[02:43] <TheBMW> <Nurse> "Then how did you get away?"

[02:44] <Sammy_Vernare> there are a few minor contusions that seem to have started to heal - mostly due to her running about on the Steelix. "I don't know! All I remember is waking up with nothing next to those other jokers!" It's taking an exorbitant effort to not break down crying.

[02:45] <TheBMW> <Nurse> "Shh, calm down honey... that man I was talking with is a Ranger.  He'll figure out what's going on."

[02:45] * Cobalt rolls his eyes. He waits impatiently for the results of the patching up.

[02:46] <Sammy_Vernare> "I mean...I don't h-have anything! No cash, no cell phone...days away fr-from home...what am I supposed to do?"

[02:47] <TheBMW> As if on cue, Rhodes walks back into the Pokemon Center.  For once, he seems mildly concerned.

[02:47] <Cobalt> "What's up, Rhodes. Get in touch with the police or anything?"

[02:47] <TheBMW> <Rhodes> "I did, yes.  We're heading to Castelia immediately.  We need to sit down and figure out what's going on."

[02:47] <Plymouth> "Castelia?"

[02:47] <Cobalt> "Right on." He hops off of the counter he was just sitting on.

[02:48] <TheBMW> <Rhodes> "Another thing Cobalt.  Today's Thursday."

[02:48] <Cobalt> "The fuck."

[02:48] * Plymouth points to the ceiling "Looks like it's back to detecive work!"

[02:49] <Cobalt> "I'm glad I've got you around. We need to figure out what the fuck is up. Yo, nurse. How long til those buns are out of the oven?"

[02:49] <TheBMW> <Nurse> "They should be okay now.  Let me go check."

[02:50] <Cobalt> "We'll send these nuggets on their way and then let's get the fuck out of this dump."

[02:50] <TheBMW> The nurse rushes off to the back room.  Meanwhile, the Audino delivers the four balls to Cael.

[02:51] <TheBMW> <Rhodes> "A train will be here in thirty minutes.  I'd say 'pack your things', but..."

[02:51] * Cael nods and puts away the pokeballs.

[02:51] <Cobalt> "Heh."

[02:51] <Cobalt> "We know what happened last time you told me that."

[02:51] <Sammy_Vernare> "...so...what am I supposed to do?" Sammy slumps down in a chair.

[02:52] <TheBMW> <Rhodes> "You need to settle down for one.  Once we're in Castelia, we'll try to piece together what we know and go from there."

[02:54] * Tom-Dawson bursts in, spanner in hand resting on shoulder. "So when're we leaving?"

[02:55] <Sammy_Vernare> "I meant more what am I supposed to do while you all play on the train? beg for enough change to get a ticket?"

[02:55] <TheBMW> <Rhodes> "Soon.  Cael, was it?  You mentioned something about needing Pokemon examined?"

[02:56] <TheBMW> <Rhodes> "Expenses are covered miss."

[02:56] * Cael nods.

[02:57] <TheBMW> <Rhodes> "I think I can arrange that in Castelia if you're interested."

[02:57] * Cael nods again.

[02:57] * Sammy_Vernare blinks. "Why didn't you say that earlier!? G-get me thinking I'm stuck here for arceus knows how long, that I-i'll be alone again..."

[02:58] <Tom-Dawson> "Whassis about arrangements?"

[02:58] <TheBMW> Rhodes just gives Sammy a long stare.  You get the impression he doesn't really into this sort of thing.

[02:59] <Sammy_Vernare> Well he stared too long because she's not where she was just a split second ago.

[02:59] * Cael looks at Rhodes and points slightly at Sammy, frowning. "She. Coming. Too?"

[03:00] <TheBMW> <Rhodes> "Yes.  Whoever did this kidnapped her too, along with the rest of us."

[03:00] * Cobalt squats down to the wild Riolu and Patrat. "All right, nuggets. We're leaving this place. Think you can make it back to the woods with your buddy?"

[03:01] <TheBMW> <Rhodes> "If that deters you slightly, I'm sure I could arrange a small reward for helping us."

[03:01] * Plymouth starts to head out. "We really do need to get to the bottom of this 'er another?"

[03:01] <Cael> "Yes."

[03:01] <TheBMW> The Riolu and Patrat cross their arms, clearly not willing to budge.  Thankfully, the nurse walks back out shortly after, dropping off the two injured Pokemon.

[03:01] <Cael> "May.  Need.  Earplugs.  In.  Advance."

[03:02] <Sammy_Vernare> in a flash, the zoura is removed from that equation, set gently on the floor on the opposite side of the building.

[03:02] * Tom-Dawson sits down on a couch and pulls out a small toolbox to re-examine the things he got.

[03:02] <Cobalt> "It's not so bad, man. You learn to tune her out."

[03:02] <Plymouth> "Quite! At times it's the way to stop understanding."

[03:02] <TheBMW> To this, Rhodes seems to chuckle slightly.

[03:02] * Plymouth does a hand motion.

[03:02] <TheBMW> <Rhodes> "I'll see what I can do."

[03:03] <Sammy_Vernare> "Oh come on, I'm right here!"

[03:03] * Cobalt smirks.

[03:03] <Plymouth> "Yes, we know. Would you rather us insult your .... verbosity behind your back?"

[03:04] <TheBMW> While everyone talks amongst each other, the two Riolu and the Patrat seem to be holding a conversation of their own.  Mentally.  Because they're bullshit like that.

[03:04] <TheBMW> The only indication is the occasional squeak from the rat.

[03:04] <Sammy_Vernare> "Why do you have to do it at all?"

[03:04] <Cobalt> "All right, get out of here before somebody catches you."

[03:04] * Cobalt shoos the pokemon.

[03:05] * Plymouth turns. "Now if you excuse me we have to as they say.... Put the shoe on the other hand and make water!"

[03:05] <TheBMW> The three back up slightly, then glance at each other.  The Patrat and escort Riolu seem to sigh, then dart off, leaving the center.  The previously injured dog, however, stays.

[03:06] <Cobalt> "What's the matter, nugget. Can't walk?"

[03:06] * Plymouth heads forward

[03:06] * Sammy_Vernare tries to decode Plymouth's metaphor but gets a headache and stops, just heading forward towards the trains

[03:07] * Cobalt talks to the riolu. "Staying where? In town, or with us?"

[03:07] * Tom-Dawson finishes counting screws and gets out of the pokemon center.

[03:09] <Cobalt> "Rock and roll." He pulls out his basic ball, expanding it. He points it at the Riolu, attempt to pull it into the ball.

[03:09] * Cael follows along with the group.

[03:09] <TheBMW> The dog seems confused by the Pokeball, making the capture easy enough.  Though it protests slightly, it's caught too off-guard.  Riolu caught!

[03:10] <Sammy_Vernare> "..." Sammy now realizes that she has two pokemon she wants to keep with her, and only one ball. "Umm...does anyone have a spare ball? I'll pay you back...eventually..."

[03:10] * Plymouth heads out as well. "And then we will all be as fit as a ... trombone"

[03:10] <TheBMW> A Pokeball flies from the counter and into Sammy's hand.  The nurse smiles at her, then waves.

[03:11] <TheBMW> <Rhodes> "Right, we better get moving.  Cael, I'd bring your car along.  There should be room for it on the train, they come prepared for anything these days."

[03:11] * Cobalt heads out of the pokemon center, releasing the riolu as he does. "Let's roll. We'll toughen you up and have you kick that fox's ass later. You got a name, nugget?"

[03:11] * Sammy_Vernare blushes slightly and thanks the nurse as she offers the growlithe a ball. Then she'll turn to the black fox.

[03:11] <TheBMW> Growlithe caught!

[03:12] <Sammy_Vernare> "I...I need a friend. someone I can count on, to do whatever I need to get the job done. Can you help me?"

[03:15] <Cobalt> "All right then. I'm gonna call you Nugget. I'm Cobalt."

[03:16] * Cobalt seems to be having a one way conversation with the riolu

[03:16] * Sammy_Vernare seems to be doing similar with the zoura, offering it a ball as well.

[03:16] * Plymouth seems to be moving because forward ever

[03:17] <TheBMW> The Zorua shrugs, then jumps into the ball.  Strange, it's actually familiar with this sort of thing?  Either way, it's caught!

[03:19] * Cael looks around the nearby buildings for a couple moments before walking back to the group. He pulls out a small sketch pad and speaks to himself as he writes, "Anville. Has. Ghosts."

[03:19] <TheBMW> THIRTY MINUTES LATER...

[03:22] <TheBMW> After Cael's amazing discovery, the party regrouped at one of Anville's train stations.  It seems their ride should be here any minute, and Cael's SUV is already being handled by the workers.

[03:23] * Sammy_Vernare seems to be in slightly better spirits now, at the very least she's not on the verge of tears, nor of threatening sparkly magical doom on anyone.

[03:23] * Plymouth awaits, before turning to the group. "So, my fellow and current companions, any ideas on why we are all together?"

[03:24] <Tom-Dawson> "Fuck if I know. I'm just trying to get to Driftveil."

[03:24] <TheBMW> <Rhodes> "Because everyone here is either a victim or a witness."

[03:24] <Cobalt> "We were all kidnapped. That's all I've got."

[03:24] <Cael> "Helping.  For.  Reward."

[03:24] <Plymouth> "I mean you know... why us?"

[03:25] <Plymouth> "I mean we are all victims but don't you think that there might be... something else involved?"

[03:25] * Plymouth scratches her eyebrow

[03:25] <Cobalt> "Not enough to know, yet, I guess.

[03:25] <TheBMW> <Rhodes> "We're cops, so that much is obvious.  But you have a point.  Why DID the rest of you get kidnapped?"

[03:26] <Tom-Dawson> "Me an' Huey had a plenty good reason."

[03:26] <Sammy_Vernare> "Not a clue in the world." sammy shakes her head.

[03:26] <Cobalt> "I was WITH a cop."

[03:26] * Cobalt wonders if he's involved because of Rhodes.

[03:26] <TheBMW> <Rhodes> "And what reason would that be?"

[03:27] <Tom-Dawson> "Le's just say that it's a thing that could potentially spell doomsday."

[03:28] <Tom-Dawson> "And that thing is currently in an unknown location as we speak."

[03:28] <Tom-Dawson> "But we found it!"

[03:28] <Tom-Dawson> "That's what matters, right?"

[03:28] <TheBMW> <Rhodes> "You have to be a little more specific.  WHAT could spell doomsday?"

[03:28] <Sammy_Vernare> "Did it have anything to do with whatever you were yelling t in that cave?"

[03:29] <Tom-Dawson> "If I tell anymore, Huey's gonna kill me, unfortunately. And it had nothing to do with the dragon-thing in that cave."

[03:29] <Sammy_Vernare> "...who is huey, and how's he gonna know anyway?"

[03:30] <TheBMW> Rhodes eyes Tom curiously for a moment, but otherwise falls quiet.  Meanwhile, the train starts to pull in from the distance.  Any second now...

[03:30] <Plymouth> "So you're withoholding information that could spell doomsday? And you're worried about your own murder?"

[03:31] <Tom-Dawson> "Yes, I am. And Huey will know. That fucker's got more informants than most secret services."

[03:32] * Cobalt is pretty sure this guy is just crazy, or attention-seeking. Whatever. He recalls Nugget as they wait. Little bastard's probably tuckered out after getting his ass handed to him.

[03:32] <Sammy_Vernare> "...if only I had my cell phone..." Sammy sighs. "Mom'd know how to fix this..."

[03:32] * Cael finds a place to sit down while waiting on the train and releases one of the larvitar he caught.

[03:33] <TheBMW> The train thunders into the station, blaring a horn to signify its arrival.  It's surprisingly large, easily ten cars long.  The doors open, and a man steps out to collect tickets.

[03:33] * Plymouth looks at Rhodes. "So... when can I get my badge and my styler"

[03:33] <TheBMW> The Larvitar is released.  It yawns lazily, clearly only waking up from its nap now.  It then turns to look at Cael and the others, merely shrugging.

[03:34] <TheBMW> <Rhodes> "I already talked with the chief.  He has replacement gear waiting for us.  Styler, PDA, all of it."

[03:35] <Sammy_Vernare> "PDA?" Sammy cocks her head. that had to mean something else...right?"

[03:35] * Plymouth claps her hands. "Good good, then I can actually start being useful again!"

[03:35] * Cael picks up the larvitar and takes a closer look at its scales while he waits to board the train.

[03:36] * Cobalt watches Cael. Little rock lizard, cool.

[03:36] <TheBMW> The scales of the Larvitar are a pale blue, instead of the greenish hue typical of the species.  They are also cold to the touch, and for obvious reasons; a thin sheet of ice covers them.

[03:36] * Cael puts on some gloves from his backpack so his hands don't freeze carrying it.

[03:36] <TheBMW> The rock lizard hardly seems to care about being picked up.  It seems more interested in sleeping right now.

[03:37] <TheBMW> Rhodes enters the train, whispering something to the man collecting tickets.  He nods, then gestures for everyone else to head in.

[03:37] * Cobalt boards the train.

[03:37] * Plymouth boards said train

[03:37] * Sammy_Vernare clambors on

[03:37] * Tom-Dawson gets inside and nods at the conductor

[03:38] * Cael boards the moving metal thing as well.

[03:38] <TheBMW> It seems this car is mostly empty, aside from a couple of men is bulky attire sleeping in the back.

[03:39] <TheBMW> After a few minutes, the train is off, presumably to head towards Castelia.

[03:40] * Cael finds a place to sit down with the larvitar.

[03:42] * Cobalt sits down next to Cael. "So, what the hell is that?"

[03:43] <Cael> "Larvitar."

[03:45] <Cobalt> "Never seen one. This one yours?"

[03:45] * Cobalt stares at the lizard.

[03:45] * Plymouth states at the lizard then Cael. "Quite the interesting fauna you got there... is that indigneous?"

[03:45] <TheBMW> The lizard stares back, if lazily.  You notice that whenever it breathes, it releases a puff of cold mist.

[03:47] <Cael> "Found.  In.  Mountains."

[03:47] <TheBMW> The outside world fades away, being replaced by an underground tunnel.  Even so, it's hard to make out any details at these sorts of speeds.

[03:50] * Cobalt figures this guy doesn't like to talk much. He considers leaving him alone, but decides against it. "Cool. I bet it eats all kinds of cool shit."

[03:50] * Tom-Dawson releases his Clink out in front of him.

[03:50] <Cael> "Don't know."

[03:51] <Cobalt> "Oh. Name's Cobalt. That there is Rhodes. And these are some other people, I guess."

[03:52] <Tom-Dawson> "I haven't even given you a nickname yet, have I?"

[03:53] * Plymouth shrugs. "Splendid!"

[03:53] <TheBMW> The Klink shakes its body in response.  It seems not.

[03:55] <Tom-Dawson> "Hm. A gear in the midst of a vast assembly, driving the heart of the mechanism."

[03:55] * Cael pulls out a small card and hands it to Cobalt. The card reads "Cael Flynn - Pokemon tracking and hunting." A phone number is listed at the bottom.

[03:55] <Tom-Dawson> "A thing this tiny, yet so important."

[03:55] * Cobalt eyes over the card. "Sweet."

[03:55] * Cobalt pockets the card.

[03:56] <Tom-Dawson> "Ah! What about Catalyst?"

[03:56] <TheBMW> The Klink seems to think on it, then nods happily.

[03:57] * Plymouth yawns. "There is not enough excitement on this train."

[03:58] <Sammy_Vernare> "I'm perfectly fine with that. Name's Sammy, by the way."

[03:58] * Tom-Dawson shows the floating gears his tools. "When I can get my hands on some metal, hoo boy will we have a thing or two to show the world."

[04:00] * Cobalt sighs. He would play with his phone if he had one.

[04:00] * Cobalt decides to kick back and take a nap.

[04:01] <Plymouth> "Oh are we introducing ourselves again? Detective Plymouth, here for your service"

[04:01] * Cael hands a card to each person in the group.

[04:01] * Tom-Dawson waves towards Cael. "Tom, nice t'meet ya."

[04:01] * Cael nods.

[04:02] * Plymouth read it. "One Mr. Flynn?"

[04:04] <Cael> "Yes."

[04:05] * Sammy_Vernare thinks a nap isn't a bad idea at all

[04:06] * Plymouth nods and makes noises of approval. "Well!"

[04:08] * Tom-Dawson looks towards Rhodes. "Any chance of you being able to get me to Driftveil?"

[04:09] <TheBMW> <Rhodes> "You can count on it.  But Driftveil is just one piece of the puzzle.  There's a lot we need to look at."

[04:10] <Sammy_Vernare> "I'd be happy just knowing what the puzzle looks like..."

[04:10] <TheBMW> <Rhodes> "I think we all would."

[04:10] <Plymouth> "A puzzle?"

[04:11] * Cobalt tries to get comfortable, but can't. "And arrest some fuckers." he adds to the conversation.

[04:11] <Tom-Dawson> "I just want a new car."

[04:11] <TheBMW> After a while, the train starts to slow down as it reaches another stop.  It seems you've hit Nimbasa's subway system, so at least you're halfway there.

[04:11] * Cobalt begins to drift to sleep. Darkness and the sound of the rails begin to comfort him somewhere before they reach Nimbasa. He's out.

[04:12] <Plymouth> "Arrest some hooligans indeed!"

[04:12] <Tom-Dawson> "Ain't arresting people just a tad too harsh?"

[04:12] <TheBMW> <Rhodes> "Another hour and we should be there.  Once we arrive, we'll head for the chief.  We can work out what to do next there, and hopefully secure lodging for all of you."

[04:13] <Tom-Dawson> "Can't we just make do with wanton manslaughter?"

[04:13] <TheBMW> <Rhodes> "No manslaughter.  We need answers, not bodies."

[04:13] <Sammy_Vernare> "I'm not opposed to leaving a few bodies behind, as long as they're the kidnappers'..."

[04:15] <Cael> "Murder.  Bad.  If.  Leave.  Alive.  Can.  Extort.  Blackmail.  Longer.  More.  Profit."

[04:16] <Plymouth> "I prefer to keep my criminals alive, thank you

[04:17] <TheBMW> Rhodes looks concerned to say the least.

[04:17] * Tom-Dawson mumbles. "And Huey blew up my bar of the month and half a block for all of this."

[04:17] <TheBMW> The train shoots off again, and after a short while the subway tunnel gives away, leaving you in a vast desert.

[04:19] <TheBMW> The other men in the car seem to finally wake up, and immediately they leave to head into another.

[04:19] * Cobalt wakes up after a bit, once they reach the desert. "Hey. Almost there."

[04:19] * Plymouth looks at the desert through the window

[04:20] <TheBMW> Sand.  Sand.  Oh, and look, there's some more sand.

[04:20] * Cobalt releases Nugget. "Check that out, Nugget. A dry wasteland. All kinds of shit starves to death out there."

[04:20] * Sammy_Vernare keeps an eye out - where did those men head off to?

[04:21] <TheBMW> The direction the men went in leads towards the front of the train.  Maybe they were hungry or something, who knows.

[04:21] <TheBMW> Nugget crosses his arms and gives Cobalt a dry look.

[04:21] <TheBMW> (her*)

[04:22] <Cobalt> "Walked through it once. Almost lost my water bottle, but Alex.." He trails off for a bit. "We made it out in one piece, heh."

[04:23] * Plymouth thinks and jumps up and then sits back down.

[04:23] <TheBMW> By the end of the story, the Riolu seems reasonably impressed, a good contrast from its original attitude.

[04:24] * Tom-Dawson lies down to nap, it's a long-ass desert.

[04:28] <TheBMW> As Tom starts to lie down, he and Cobalt notice a two-headed bird start to run alongside the train in the distance.  Something metallic hangs from its body, but you have no clue what it is.

[04:29] * Tom-Dawson looks at it. "What in the fuck."

[04:30] <Cobalt> "Check it. Some kind of bird."

[04:32] <TheBMW> Suddenly, the bird starts to slow down, eventually fading out of sight.

[04:32] <Tom-Dawson> "Yeah I can see that, but why in the hell is a bird in a desert and how can it run so fast."

[04:33] * Sammy_Vernare is sleepy and doesn't really pay attention to a stupid two-headed bird.

[04:34] * Cael moves near the window to try and spot the bird.

[04:35] <Cobalt> "Dunno. Maybe it lives there? So what."

[04:35] <Cael> "No.  Not.  Native.  Unova."

[04:36] * Cobalt shrugs.

[04:37] <TheBMW> Suddenly, the sharp sound of an explosion smashes into your ears, followed by the creaking of metal.  Something just happened, but you have no idea what.

[04:37] <TheBMW> Your train car appears perfectly fine, as do the other two from what you can tell.

[04:37] * Plymouth jumps up. "Excitement!"

[04:37] <Cobalt> "Fucking christ." He hits the deck.

[04:38] * Plymouth runs over to the sound of the explosion

[04:38] * Tom-Dawson gets up from the floor, returns Catalyst, and runs towards where the explosion came from

[04:39] <Cobalt> "The hell was that!?"

[04:39] * Sammy_Vernare is thrown to the floor from the sheer force of the hit. "mother of shit, what happened?"

[04:39] <TheBMW> Plymouth and Tom head towards the rear of the train.  The first car they enter is innocent enough, but as they enter the next one, they find that half of it has been blown completely off.

[04:40] <TheBMW> The rest of the train's rear cars is slowly fading off into the distance, lacking any sort of locomotion to keep going.

[04:40] * Plymouth attempts to see any outside source

[04:40] <TheBMW> Back in the original car, the three heavily-dressed men rush through, heading in Plymouth and Tom's direction.

[04:41] * Tom-Dawson gets out of the way for the men.

[04:41] * Cobalt follows the heavily dressed men.

[04:41] * Cael returns his larvitar to the pokeball and remains in his seat.

[04:41] <TheBMW> None.  The only thing of note in this car is the man and woman huddled in the corner.

[04:41] * Sammy_Vernare quickly pulls herself up and assesses whether or not the well-dressed men are Suits, or badguys

[04:41] * Plymouth nods. "Yep, there was an explosion"

[04:41] <Tom-Dawson> "No shit detective!"

[04:42] <Plymouth> "Now... where was the bomb then?"

[04:42] <TheBMW> The three men enter.  They immediately yell something foreign at the cowering couple, then grab them.

[04:43] <Tom-Dawson> "I'm presuming on that two-headed bird. It was carrying... SOMETHING."

[04:43] <Plymouth> "It was? well then... Who sent it?"

[04:43] * Plymouth looks around at Tom and then the people

[04:43] <Tom-Dawson> "I'll be fucked if I know."

[04:44] * Tom-Dawson walks over to one of the men. "Excuse me sir, what are you looking for?"

[04:44] <TheBMW> The largest of the three turns to Tom, still clutching the woman in his grasp.

[04:44] * Cobalt enters the car behind the men.

[04:44] <TheBMW> <???> "Plasma."

[04:45] <Plymouth> "Plasma?!"

[04:45] * Cael sighs and joins the others.

[04:45] <Tom-Dawson> "Now that's just rude. Unhand the lady, there's no Plasma here."

[04:45] * Plymouth looks flabergastes

[04:45] <TheBMW> The woman is tossed through the missing half of the train.  She hits the rails violently and rolls on contact, left behind in the deserrt.

[04:45] <TheBMW> <???> "Go back to your train, this doesn't concern you."

[04:46] * Plymouth grabs the man who throws the lady. "Hey! That was not cool!? Why are you tossing them off the train!"

[04:46] <Sammy_Vernare> "Mother of shit, not them again..." Being a native of Sinnoh, Sammy is well aware of what Team Plasma has done. All the same... "I'm gonna need to see some badges."

[04:46] <Tom-Dawson> "It does indeed concern me. I saw a two-headed bird carry a device, which I presume would have been the bomb in the other train."

[04:47] <TheBMW> <???> "Badges?"

[04:47] <TheBMW> The three coated men look at each other, then leap through the missing half of the train, dragging the other man with them.

[04:47] <Tom-Dawson> "What."

[04:48] <Sammy_Vernare> "..." Sammy just stares at the gaping hole in the train.

[04:48] * Cobalt is a bit too dumbfounded to do anything else. The hell just happened. He hangs on, looking back as the men tumble out of the train.

[04:48] <Cobalt> "Rhodes??"

[04:48] <Cael> "Stop.  Them?"

[04:48] * Plymouth JUMPS

[04:48] <Sammy_Vernare> "...Are most people from this part of your world this..." She pauses for the word. "moony?"

[04:49] <TheBMW> Rhodes finally gets his ass in gear and enters the train.  "The hell just happened?!"

[04:49] <Cobalt> "Explosion, back here. Men ran back, threw these people off, fucking jumped after them!" He points.

[04:49] <Tom-Dawson> "A bomb, JC."

[04:49] * Plymouth yells as she falls. "I will return for investigation"

[04:51] <Cobalt> "Man, she's gonna need help. Fuck this. Catch you you in Castelia, Rhodes." He jumps as well. "COME ON, NUGGET."

[04:51] * Cael steps out of the train.

[04:51] <TheBMW> Plymouth rolls on contact, narrowly avoiding contact with the rail.

[04:51] <TheBMW> <Rhodes> "What the... don't just run off into the desert!"

[04:51] <TheBMW> Cael, taking a more cautious approach, avoids it entirely.

[04:52] <Sammy_Vernare> "...as you were saying, we need to get to...castlelia?"

[04:52] <TheBMW> <Rhodes> "Yes, Castelia.  And I know something just went down, but running off into the desert doesn't help!"

[04:53] * Plymouth stands and makes chase, post haste

[04:53] <TheBMW> Cobalt takes a more haphazardous method, and it costs him.  He rolls on the rail for a split second, sending electricity surging through him.  He feels stiff, as though he can't move.

[04:54] <TheBMW> Back in the desert, the three men are slamming their "suspect" head-first into the electrified rail.  He spasms violently, and is bleeding.

[04:54] <Cobalt> "FFFFFFFUUUUUUUUUU--" He rolls around for a moment, laying on his back. He tries to bring himself to a crawl.

[04:55] <Sammy_Vernare> "...why do you think I stayed behind?"

[04:55] <TheBMW> <Rhodes> "At least someone is sensible... come on."

[04:55] <TheBMW> Rhodes heads for the front of the train.

[04:57] * Sammy_Vernare follows, unsure what to do with the others. If they can survive the desert, great. If not...well, they shouldn't have jumped.

[04:57] <TheBMW> Cael suddenly pulls a handgun from his clothes and fires it in the direction of the men.  They immediately jump back startled, leaving the suspect lying next to the rails.

[05:00] <TheBMW> Even so, the gravity of the situation is obvious to them.  They immediately spring to action, tossing two Pokeballs forward.  A brown dog-like monster is released, as well as a small and muscular humanoid.  The bird seen from before starts racing in, clearly getting the hint.

[05:00] <TheBMW> Combat begin!

[05:03] <Tom-Dawson> "Eh, fuck it. I'm gonna go take a nap."

[05:03] * Tom-Dawson gets back to his seat.

[05:04] * Cael releases his litwick.

[05:04] * Plymouth pulls out her fist. "Looks like that judo-training might come in handle"

[05:04] <TheBMW> ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PFGQ1TCH-No )

[05:05] <TheBMW> The Doduo rushes forward, jabbing at Plymouth.

[05:07] <TheBMW> The Zigzagoon follows up, attempting to rush at the Litwick.  However, it merely passes through, accomplishing absolutely nothing.

[05:08] <TheBMW> <???> "Damnit, slow the fuck down and let me give you orders!"

[05:10] * Plymouth takes the birds and tries to hold its heads

[05:10] <TheBMW> Plymouth grapples the heads, holding them back.  She should be safe, if only for now.

[05:12] <TheBMW> Cael fires again, putting a bullet in the talking man's arm.  He groans, falling to his knee for a moment.

[05:14] <TheBMW> One of the men retaliates by pulling out his own gun and firing at Cael.  The wounded one merely slinks back, and the third tries to help his bird out.

[05:15] <TheBMW> The bullet sinks shallowly into Cael's abdomen.  It could be a lot worse.

[05:15] <Cael> "Ouch."

[05:16] <TheBMW> Plymouth stands resolute, and she kicks the man away while she keeps a pecking two-headed bird at bay.

[05:16] <Cobalt> "fffff... Nugget, quick attack that dickhead with the gun."

[05:16] <Plymouth> "Go away! I'm busy trying not to get pecked in the eyes"

[05:17] <TheBMW> Nugget charges, socking the gunner in the knee.  He falls over with a yelp.

[05:18] * Cael looks at the others. "Have. Antidotes?"

[05:18] * Cobalt stands up, breaking FREE OF HIS PARALYSIS! I guess. For this round, or maybe for good. You tell me since you said one turn. He charges in, tackling the man with the gun that Nugget just hit.

[05:20] <TheBMW> Cobalt rushes, slamming himself into the gunner.  The man collapses right as he was trying to get up, smacking his head off a small rock.  He's out like a light.

[05:22] <TheBMW> The Machop is left infuriated.  It rushes straight for Cobalt and his Riolu, kicking out at them with reckless abandon.

[05:24] <TheBMW> The foot slams into Cobalt, and the sound of cracking bone fills the air on contact.  A sharp pain brings him down onto his other leg.

[05:24] * Cobalt has no words to express his pain, other than FFRRRHGHGHGHHGHGHHG. He drops his weight onto the other leg. Why, oh why.

[05:24] <Cael> "Liwick.  Smog."

[05:25] * Plymouth cringes

[05:27] <TheBMW> The Machop leaps back, flexing proudly, before a massive cloud of poison fills the air around it.  It coughs violently, fanning the smoke away as it clampers out.  It seems that had the right effect.

[05:28] <Cael> "Surrender. Or. Will. Use. Stronger.  Poisons."

[05:28] <TheBMW> The men don't seem to want to back down.

[05:28] <TheBMW> <???> "Peck that bitch!"

[05:29] <TheBMW> <???> "Tackle that guy with the gun!"

[05:30] <TheBMW> The Doduo finally manages to free itself.  It pushes Plymouth away, then starts to rear back, ready to attack.  At least she bought some time.

[05:33] <TheBMW> Meanwhile, a ball of fluff slams itself into Cael.  He can't help but stumble slightly, but it could've been a lot worse.

[05:33] * Cobalt pulls out his only potion, downing it for a burst of energy, despite the fucked up leg.

[05:35] <TheBMW> He feels great!

[05:37] * Plymouth runs over and punches one of the guys in the face

[05:38] <TheBMW> Plymouth punches the man Cael had previously shot.  The pain becomes too much for him, and he collapses onto the sand.

[05:40] <TheBMW> The last man signals to the Doduo and starts running.  The bird gets a slow start, but doesn't take long to catch up.

[05:42] <TheBMW> Cael opens fire, putting a bullet in the man's knee.  He immediately falls to the ground, unable to run.

[05:42] * Plymouth runs over to the man and flips him over. "Okay, start talking!"

[05:43] <TheBMW> The man replies by spitting at Plymouth.

[05:43] <Cobalt> "Nugget, quick attack that man in the face."

[05:43] * Plymouth wipes her face

[05:44] <TheBMW> Nugget rushes in, smacking the man's face with her palm.  He hits the ground again, groaning.

[05:45] <Plymouth> "Okay, are you gonna talk now?"

[05:45] <TheBMW> Unfortunately, the poisoned Machop just follows after her, and quickly follows up with a rough smack.

[05:45] <TheBMW> But fortunately, it goes completely wide, causing it to roll around in the sand.

[05:47] <Cael> "Ember. Bird."

[05:48] <TheBMW> Litwick spews a small stream of fire at the Doduo, but it manages to see it coming.  In a flash, it moves aside, then starts charging at the candle.

[05:50] <TheBMW> A small ethereal chunk falls away, but otherwise, the candle is fine.

[05:51] <TheBMW> The Zigzagoon merely growls at nothing in particular, not sure how to act anymore.

[05:54] <TheBMW> Cobalt takes revenge by punching the Machop.  It feels like punching solid rock, but even so, it seems to work.  The Machop backs up, seeming to fight off the pain for now.

[05:55] <TheBMW> Meanwhile, the man just glares at Plymouth, not speaking a word.

[05:58] * Plymouth looks at the man. "Not gonna talk? How about if your little Pokemon aren't around?" She then promptly kicks the machop

[06:00] <TheBMW> Punching this monster seriously hurts, but once again it has an effect.  It stumbles backwards a bit, grunts, then gets back into a stance.  Blood is starting to drip from its mouth, and you get the feeling it's almost done.

[06:00] * Cael walks up to the man, leans down, and whispers into his ear.

[06:01] <TheBMW> <Man> "Fuck.  You."

[06:02] <TheBMW> He whispers something in reply, then shoves Cael away.

[06:03] <Cael> "Request.  Granted."

[06:06] <TheBMW> Cael presses his handgun against the man's forehead, then fires.  A gunshot breaks the combat, and the body flops to the ground.

[06:06] <TheBMW> All three hostile Pokemon immediately rear back, caught off-guard.  The Doduo and Zigzagoon almost immediately run off, while the Machop merely passes out from poisoning.

[06:07] * Plymouth frowns. "Well, that was unneeded." Plymouth tends to the fallen Machop

[06:07] <Cobalt> "Holy shit, man." Backs up a bit, limping.

[06:08] * Cael pulls out a handkerchief and wipes off any blood splatter that may have gotten on his skin, then puts the gun and cloth away.

[06:09] * Cobalt stumbles back, falling into his ass. What kind of crazy shit this is.

[06:09] <TheBMW> Aside from the blood that splashed onto the barrel of the gun, that was relatively clean.  The body, however, isn't.  A gaping hole is left in its forehead, oozing all sorts of body fluids.

[06:10] * Plymouth investigates one of the bodies

[06:10] <TheBMW> Nothing of note, not even a form of identification.  Something's wrong here, it's almost if they were prepared for the worst.

[06:11] * Cobalt pulls himself together gradually. He checks on the people the goons were beating up.

[06:11] <Cael> "Dump.  Bodies... Sand?"

[06:11] <Cobalt> "Man.. Check them for any money, or pokeballs or shit, first.

[06:12] <Cael> "Always. Check. Money.  After.  Kill.  Duh."

[06:12] <TheBMW> The sand here is shallow to say the least.  The area around the rails is rocky, likely so they have a surface to rest on.  If a body needs buried, it'll have to moved elsewhere.

[06:12] * Cael starts looking through the bodies for anything worth looting.

[06:13] <TheBMW> Cobalt and Cael search carefully, but all they manage to find is a couple pieces of change and one last Basic Ball.

[06:13] <Cobalt> (What about the beat up couple?)

[06:13] * Plymouth looks around the deset to see if there is any situations

[06:13] <TheBMW> (oh right, let me get that)

[06:14] <TheBMW> Unfortunately, it seems that the attacked couple are deceased.  The woman presumably died from contacting the rail for so long, and the man's head is practically a smashed fruit now.

[06:14] <TheBMW> Each of them have two Basic Balls, a potion, some loose change, and a knife.

[06:14] <Cobalt> "Man, fuck." This is all emotionally rough. He searches the couple for any ID or further evidence

[06:15] <TheBMW> No ID on these two either.  What the hell's going on here?

[06:15] * Cobalt collects the 4 basic balls, the money and the knives.

[06:15] <Cobalt> "Some sketchy shit going on here, man. It's all linked. No ID on these either. Plymouth?"

[06:16] * Cael walks over the bodies and down the tracks toward where the rear cars would have ended up.

[06:16] * Cobalt sighs. He follows Cael. "Hold up, man."

[06:16] * Plymouth is detectiving it up. "Hmm..." She runs over to where the back cars would have gone as well

[06:17] <TheBMW> The rear cars are just up ahead.  It seems the only passenger train was vaporized in the blast, leaving a small recreation car and two transport cars behind.  Cael's SUV is currently parked in the rear-most of the three.

[06:18] * Cobalt raids the recreation car for any clues, booze or loot

[06:19] * Plymouth apparently can't see if anyshit is here

[06:23] <TheBMW> Cobalt searches the recreation car, but finds that it's mostly empty.  Except for one thing: a small map of Castelia City, with an X a corner of its Central Park.

[06:23] <TheBMW> (over a corner*)

[06:23] * Cobalt collects this map. He'd better show this to Rhodes and Plymouth.

[06:24] <TheBMW> He also finds a ton of booze lying around.  Though that isn't exactly evidence.

[06:24] * Cael pulls out his sketch pad and begins writing again, speaking the words aloud as he writes them. "Desert. Has. Onix. Ghosts. And. Sand. Dragons."

[06:25] * Cobalt collects one of the booze bottles.

[06:26] <Cobalt> "G-g-ghosts?"

[06:26] * Cobalt pops his head out of the car

[06:26] <Plymouth> "Ghosts"

[06:26] * Cael looks up from the bad. "Ghost. Golems. Actually."

[06:27] <TheBMW> Cobalt grabs some fine Unovan whiskey.  This should kick hard.  Very, very hard.

[06:29] <TheBMW> Meanwhile, the rear-most car is opened easily enough.  A ramp automatically extends, allowing the SUV to drive right off and onto greener pastures.  Oddly enough, it's the only vehicle inside.

[06:29] * Cobalt walks out of the car with the map and whiskey. "Damn. Lucky we got your car."

[06:35] <Cobalt> "Golems.... Like those goletts?" He approaches Cael and Plymouth.

[06:35] <Cael> "Yes."

[06:37] * Plymouth nods