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Old 05-16-2009, 09:10 AM   #1
Hayward
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Celebi The Flipside Racket EP

Navigation Links
'Redemption Songs'
Track List

i. Silverton Mountain Serenade (complete)
ii. Talas Blues (complete)
iii. A Requiem for Miasma (updator quit)
iv. The Glacier Island Jam (updator quit)
v. Cortoza Jazz (complete)
vi. Waltz for Lyanazia (updator quit)
vii. Rhapsody of the Sacred Forest (updator quit)
viii. Mireno's Elegy (updator quit)
ix. Dream Trance (complete)
x. Aduro Island Audio Assault (in progress)

vs. Arc Angel (complete) Loss
vs. Stark/Mewsic Box (w. Treep) (complete) Win {Intermediate Trophy}
vs. atlantis_kid99 (complete) Loss
vs. Yuki.N (complete) Win {Advanced Trophy}

FB Bar (Live at the FB Bar)

Christmas at Lil' Blue's Secret Base (A Very Lil' Blue Christmas)

Custom FB Images
01 | 02 | 03 | 04 | 05 | 06 | 07 | 08 | 09 | 10
11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20
21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 28 | |

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Old 11-25-2010, 03:50 PM   #2
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FB Bar

Two figures stood pensively before the swinging, double-doors of the quaint, little tavern. A monochromatic, female wolfpup heeled patiently at the feet of the taller figure; its lolling tongue panting rhythmically. The black-clad teenager bent down and gently scratched the little wolfpup under her chin. “I know you’re thirsty, girl,” he said. “It’s been a while since our last break. Maybe the barkeep will be…generous enough…to share something with us.” In response, the wolfpup playfully licked her trainer’s hand.

Standing again, the trainer Ben Hale strained his ears in an effort to better gauge the level of danger the drinking establishment posed. However, the muffled noise of conversation mixed with laughter, and the occasional cries of Pokemon issuing from within, didn’t appear to be threatening. Brow furrowed, he momentarily wondered if he and his companions had the right place after all. As he gazed uncertainly at the exterior of the rustic watering hole, the warning of the old, hooded traveler they had passed on the road the day before echoed in his mind.

“The FB Bar,” the gray-bearded stranger had said with a glint of mischief in his eye. “You’ll never find a more wretched hive of scum and villainy. I’d avoid that place if I were you…”

Out of money and out of food, Ben had inquired of each traveler they met where the nearest eatery was, and though the wizened, old man had told Ben of the FB Bar, he had also sternly warned him to stay away. At the time, Ben disregarded the brown cloaked drifter’s advice; he seemed like nothing more than a living “fossil” and Ben was thirsty. Thirstier than he had been in a long time. Powerfully thirsty. Now that Ben was face-to-face with the saloon, he felt certain the old-timer had just been paranoid. This place wasn’t dangerous. Just unique. Ben glanced at the small Meditite by his side, wondering what his diminutive partner was thinking. The Yoga Pokemon Medeo turned to Ben, a quizzical expression on his tiny face, and shrugged.

“Yeah, I agree, mate,” Ben casually remarked. “How bad can it be?” He nodded in the direction of the bar and whistled for Hyneo to follow them inside.

* * *

Creeeeaaaak. Creeeeaaaak. The double doors swung open noisily on their hinges and Ben could tell right away that although the FB Bar was packed with people and Pokemon now, it had not seen business in quite some time. Stepping inside the dimly lit chamber, he quickly surveyed the scene with his grey-green eyes as Medeo and Hyneo shuffled in behind him. In one corner of the bar, a girl with long, black hair and glasses sat next to a massive Rhydon. Both were drinking smoothies. Across the table from her, a young man in a green striped shirt sat with a tiny Ralts, while a dark-haired young man in a black hooded sweatshirt followed by a Rhyhorn was making his way towards the booth. Seated on stools at the counter were an Infernape, an Aipom, and a red-faced boy with a bloody nose. The most malevolent-looking Zangoose Ben had ever seen clambered impishly up and down the boy’s back. Her trainer winced in pain with each step the CatFerret took and Ben felt sorry for the boy’s discomfort.

At that moment, a newborn Sunkern whizzed past Ben and into the crowd of people in the center of the room. Ben quickly jumped back out of the way as its trainer frantically raced after it. Ben instantly recognized the boy as one of the other trainers who had arrived in the world of Fizzy Bubbles about the same time he had. A quick glance at the Nuzleaf lounging nearby confirmed his suspicion. The frantic trainer followed the Sunkern past a spiky-haired teenager and a bashful Larvitar sauntering around the room, and Ben bolted in shock to see that spiky-haired teenager was none other than the young millionaire, Wes Wallace, who’s Corphish Ben had looked after and who had graciously traded him an Eevee not too long ago.

His mouth dry with thirst, Ben strode to the bar and nodded at the burly man behind the counter. “What’ll it be, runt?” the bartender barked in a gruff voice.

“Three waters, please,” Ben replied sheepishly. “With ice.”

The brawny proprietor regarded Ben scornfully but handed him the drinks.

“They're free, right?” Ben asked tentatively. When the bartender nodded Ben continued, “Thanks… I’m kind of low on money.” This pathetic explanation was simply met with a snort of derision.

Not wanting to give the bartender time to change his mind, Ben scooped up the drinks and quickly retreated with Medeo and Hyneo to a secluded booth near the jukebox. The three friends made quick work of their “beverages” and relaxed while watching the other patrons. After a moment Ben glanced at the jukebox. “How ‘bout some music, mates?” he asked cheerfully. Medeo nodded his onion-shaped head in agreement while Hyneo happily wagged her tail. Ben rose to his feet and crossed to the music machine. Dragging a hand through his short, brown hair he briefly considered his options. After a moment of deliberation, he reached into the brown, canvas messenger bag slung over his shoulder, dug out two coins, and inserted the change into the slot on the front of the machine. He selected Coldplay’s “Talk” and pressed play

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Old 11-25-2010, 03:50 PM   #3
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A Very Lil' Blue Christmas

♪ ♫ Hmm Hmm Hmmhmm ♪ ♫ Hmm Hmm Hmmhmm ♪ ♫ On Sapphire Island’s Southern Beach a boy with short brown hair hummed a merry tune as he strolled through the new fallen snow near the water’s edge. A cool breeze blew in from the adjacent ocean causing him to instinctively pull the green-and-white-striped scarf he wore around his neck tighter in an effort to keep out the intrusive cold.

Born and raised in the tropical climates of Pacifidlog Town, Hoenn, it wouldn’t have been surprising for the lad to bemoan his current meteorological state of affairs. However things were quite the contrary. Whether it was the prospect of getting to spend Christmas with friends and his Pokemon, or simply that the novelty of snow hadn't worn off yet, the boy’s spirits had never been higher. He was enjoying his wintry walk immensely despite the cool temperatures. Snow-capped trees dotted the region; while waterfalls of ice dazzling along frozen streams made for a breath-taking sight. The lad gaped in amazement at the beauty of his surroundings. Wrapped in an immense blanket of white, the chilly countryside gave off an air of purity and simplicity.

Clad in a black jacket, black trousers, and white adidas running shoes, the trainer William Hale paused momentarily as he thought to himself that today marked just over two years since he had arrived in the curious land of FB seeking to bury his former life and start over fresh. Two Christmases ago he traveled here under his middle name, Benjamin, hoping that one day he would finally be able to put his checkered past behind him.

During his short time in the land of FB, Will had gone on many strange adventures, encountered a variety of Pokemon, and met a number of unforgettable people. Time and again he found himself in situations where he had been given the opportunity to fight for justice, help those in need, and stand up for the defenseless. Though he didn’t know what the new year held in store for himself and his Pokemon comrades, he knew in his heart that he would continue his quest to lend aid to anyone who needed it, no matter what it cost him.

Lost in his thoughts of the future, Will stared absentmindedly for some time at the shoreline stretching out for miles before him. However, a loud bark suddenly snapped him out of his reverie, and he glanced down at the monochromatic she-wolf heeling patiently at his feet; her lolling tongue panting in and out rhythmically. Will kneeled down and tenderly scratched his loyal canine companion under her chin.

“Not much farther, girl,” he announced, his breath visible with each word. “Jessica’s place is just up ahead. We’re almost there.” In response, the Mightyena Hyneo playfully licked her trainer’s hand.

Straightening himself, Will turned to the lithe mystic standing nearby. “You ready, mate?!”

The Medicham Medeo grinned and nodded his head enthusiastically.

“Well then, what are we waiting for?!” Will exclaimed, motioning towards the rocky granite cliffs and secluded cove nearby. “I have a bad feeling we’re running late! Hopefully we haven’t missed all the fun!” Will whistled for Hyneo to follow them as he and Medeo set off at a trot.


* * *

Moments later, the three friends stood outside the door to the seaside hideaway. Will knocked and waited, listening to the muffled noise of conversation mixed with laughter and the occasional cries of Pokemon that issued from within....


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Old 11-25-2010, 03:51 PM   #4
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Session I - Silverton Mountains Serenade (Arcane Realm)

Whoosh. Whoosh. Whoosh. The rapidly revolving propellers of the massive heli-stat Airship whirred noisily as it idled on a landing platform in the shadow of the nearby Silverton Range Mountains. The moon hung low in the night sky as the brown-haired trainer, Benjamin Hale, emerged from the passenger carriage slung to the underside of the mammoth dirigible. Having had nothing but stale, recycled air to breath onboard, he paused at the top of the disembarking ramp. He took a great big breath and drank deeply of the clean refreshing mountain air. His thirst for oxygen finally quenched, he began making his way down to the landing platform.

As soon as his white running shoes hit the tarmac, he pulled a Pokeball off his belt. Pressing the round trigger switch in the center of the red and white sphere, a brilliant scarlet light appeared, followed by a small Meditite. The moment that the Meditite Medeo emerged from his Pokeball, he made an exaggerated show of reaching over to touch his toes, running in place, and doing jumping jacks. Unimpressed by this ostentatious display, Ben irritatedly tapped the face of his black watch with one finger and waited for his tiny partner to finish. When Medeo had finally completed his elaborate stretching exercises, he turned a jaundiced eye to Ben.

"Sorry, mate."¯ Ben began sheepishly. "I know you hate riding in that thing, but what was I supposed to do? The Airship Captain specifically said, 'All Pokemon are to remain in their Pokeballs.' "¯ The Meditite frowned. "You know mate, there are still a lot of people out there who consider Pokemon as their pets."¯ Medeo looked skeptical. Ben threw up his arms in mock exasperation, "What?! It's not like that ride was a pleasure cruise for me either. While you were snug in your cozy little Pokeball, I was sandwiched between a fat, bearded guy in a flannel shirt who smelled like he hadn't bathed in a month and kept sneezing because of hay fever, and a long-haired guy in a white trenchcoat who kept asking to look at my Pokedex."¯ Hearing of Ben's discomfort sent the Meditite into a fit of hysterics, and it doubled over with laughter. "Well, I'm glad at least one of us finds it funny,"¯Ben said feigning indignation, then quickly added, "I'll be glad when your training makes you more stoic."¯


* * *

"So, this is the Arcane Realm, huh?"¯ Ben muttered as they passed through the opening in the wire-mesh fence that enclosed the landing platform. "I was expecting something more...glamorous. At least that's how the Internet advertisement made it sound."¯ As his grey-green eyes surveyed the bleak mountainous countryside in front of him, he couldn't help but think of the harshness of the Orre wastelands. "Oh well, I suppose it doesn't really matter,"¯ he said. "It's our new home now."¯ Medeo stopped walking and stared at the ground, as if the realization this statement brought needed absolute stillness to sink in. Ben noticed this and stopped too. Looking over at his diminutive companion, he spoke again, but this time with a faint trace of sorrow, "Look mate, we went over this before we left Sinnoh. We agreed that this was the only way we would ever have a chance at a fresh start. It's our one opportunity for a new life. Don't forget, we have many sins to atone for, you and I."¯ After this somber statement, it was Ben's turn to be silent for a moment. "Besides, I spent all but 100 coins of our money on the Airship Ticket to here...so we're going to be here for awhile."¯

Medeo started walking again and Ben quickly fell into step beside him. "Look on the bright side mate," he said smiling. "At least you'll be able to do all the rigorous training you want while we're up here in the mountains. And, while you're training, I'm going to explore some of those old, abandoned mines the Airship Captain claimed are supposed to be around here. Who knows? Maybe I can find some valuable artifact or ancient relic we can sell for money to buy us some food."¯

They had reached an old footpath leading off towards the mountains. "You know what mate? It's a good thing you Meditite eat only one berry a day,"¯ Ben said as he adjusted the collar on his jacket to keep out the intrusive, cool mountain air. Meditite looked his way as Ben continued. "Because that's about all either of us are going to be eating until we can get some money."¯ Stars twinkling above, the black-clad Trainer and the tiny Meditite walked on into the evening, their feet crunching in the snow, not knowing what adventures the future held in store for them...

2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10

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Old 11-25-2010, 11:51 PM   #5
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Session II - Lacuna Blues (Archaeology Zone)

Tap. Tap. Tap. The Meditite Medeo drummed his foot impatiently on the dusty ground. He hated waiting. Bored, he chose a speckled pebble from the middle of the path and idly flipped it at a nearby tree. The stony missile hit its mark with a barely audible plink!, ricocheted at a crazy angle, and disappeared from view. Medeo spied another pebble on the ground and moodily kicked it at a boulder just a few metres off the path.

Perched atop the enormous rock, the Trainer Benjamin Hale intently studied a map, while the Machop Macheo dozed contentedly in the cool grass at its base. They were at the intersection of two unpaved paths and Ben was trying to figure out which one to follow. With a quizzical look on his face, he dragged a hand through his short brown hair, and turned the map clockwise a quarter-turn. Unsatisfied, he gave it another similar rotation. He frowned, massaged his forehead, and looked up. His grey-green eyes fell on his diminutive companion pacing aimlessly nearby as he said, “I don’t know what to tell you, mate… I think we’re lost.”

Just then, a pathetic whimper came from Medeo’s empty stomach. The little Meditite regarded Ben with a jaundicied eye. “Sorry, mate, I’m hungry, too,” Ben replied sheepishly. “I know it’s been a while since we’ve had a decent bite to eat, but seeing as how I ran into a streak of terrible luck at Jirachi’s Casino… well, we just don’t have the money.” He shrugged, then added jokingly, “Aren’t Meditite supposed to be able to survive on nothing but the spiritual energy of the universe anyway?” Medeo didn’t respond, but folded his arms across his chest and sulked.

Afraid he had unintentionally hurt his little partner’s feelings, Ben tossed the map aside, and quickly scrambled down from his stony seat, nearly stepping on the snoozing Macheo in his haste. Hurrying over to the brooding Meditite, he fished around in the brown messenger bag slung over his shoulder and produced two plump, juicy-looking berries. “Here, eat these,” he said as he handed them to Medeo. “They’re our last ones.” Ben noticed Medeo’s hesitation and said, “It’s alright. Macheo had a few earlier, too.” The famished Meditite gobbled the mouth-watering fruit gratefully.

When he had finished, Ben placed his hands on Medeo’s tiny shoulders, locked gazes with his young friend, and spoke, “Look mate, we knew it wouldn’t be easy when we left home, but we can’t turn back now just because we’re out of money and food. Sure, we rescued Machop and helped capture that lunatic trainer, but we still have a lot of wrongs to make right.” Ashamed at his selfish behavior, Medeo hung his head guiltily as the last few words sunk in, and stared hard at the ground. After a moment, he let out a quiet sigh. Without looking at the teenage trainer, he nodded his understanding, then gazed sullenly at a nearby tree.

Wanting to break the awkward silence, Ben dropped his hands to his side and turned away. Glancing up at the sky, he casually remarked, “You know, according to the map, there’re supposed to be some old ruins around here somewhere… Maybe we can find something worth selling and get a bite to eat.” Medeo perked up slightly at the words “bite to eat”. Seeing that, Ben unclipped a red and white Pokeball from his belt and pointed it in the direction of the still-sleeping Macheo, recalling the Superpower Pokemon. “I think we should head this way,” he said, inclining his head to indicate the direction. Broke and hungry, the black-clad trainer and the small Meditite fell into step beside each other. Lost in their thoughts, they headed towards the valley, hoping to find the ruins; unsure what adventures fate had in store for them…

2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 1o | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 2o | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25

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Old 11-26-2010, 11:14 AM   #6
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Session III - Requiem for Miasma (Deserted Theme Park)

Skreeeeech! The canary yellow taxi skidded to a sudden halt. As a pale cloud, reeking of burning rubber enveloped the outside of the cab, a gruff baritone voice bellowed within. “WHAT?! Whadd’ya mean ya don’ have no money?! Cain’t ya read the sign?! No free rides! That’s it! Out ya go!” Without warning, the cab’s left rear door shot open at such an alarming speed that it was nearly flung off its hinges. Two figures quickly scrambled out of the back seat of the rusty sedan. Tripping over each other in their haste, they landed with a Thud! in the middle of the road. They were on their feet in an instant though, brushing themselves off. Two sets of wary eyes remained fixed on the car, unsure what would happen next.

The driver angrily hit the gas and the cab lurched forward, closing the still-open backdoor with a mighty slam. Tires squealing, it kicked up bits of dust and gravel as it sped off down the road, leaving the two figures coughing in its wake. Less than a hundred metres later though, the car’s brake lights blinked scarlet. It backed up hurriedly and stopped in front of the astonished pair. With a squeak, the driver’s window slid down and a brown messenger bag flew out. As the satchel windmilled through the air, the top flap came undone, scattering its contents all about. A moment later, the bag landed unceremoniously at the feet of the taller figure. He hastily collected all his spilt belongings, scooped them into his pack, and dusting it off, slung it over his shoulder.

Inside the vehicle, the cabbie shook his head disdainfully and muttered, “Sheesh. I thought kids these days were loaded.” Giving the pair one last scornful look, he closed the window and zoomed off. The duo watched the car, growing smaller and smaller as it sped away, until it became just a tiny speck in the distance. When it had disappeared from view altogether, the two figures looked at each other, shrugged simultaneously, and set off down the road at a leisurely pace.

Clad in a black jacket, black trousers, and white adidas running shoes, the trainer Benjamin Hale was the taller of the figures. A former member of the gang Red Gyarados, Ben had left home seeking to atone for the sins of his past. The small Meditite ambling alongside him was Medeo; reckless partner, traveling companion, and longtime friend.


* * *

Ben and Medeo had been following the road in silence for quite some time, enjoying the sights and sounds of the scenic countryside, when they noticed what appeared to be a purplish fog just up ahead. Medeo turned to Ben, a quizzical expression on his tiny face. The teenage trainer returned the look, yet motioned towards the oddly colored cloud. Equally curious, the two friends trotted closer to investigate. Unsure what to expect, they slowed a few metres from the cloud, and cautiously crept the remainder of the way. As he peered into the thick fog, Ben bolted in astonishment at discovering that it surrounded an abandoned amusement park.

All at once, as if brought on by the purple fog, Ben was embraced by feelings of melancholy nostalgia. Like phantom ushers, his memories carried him to a time many years ago; before he joined the Red Gyarados. Things were simpler then; he was younger, his parents hadn’t split up yet, and he hadn’t run away from home. His mother and father had taken him to an amusement park just like this one then, and the three of them had spent the day enjoying the rides, tents, and shows along the midway. It was so long ago that it seemed to him like another place, another time, another life. Ben’s memory of innocence lost was fleeting though and didn’t last for long. It became as cloudy as the lavender vapors swirling around him and disappeared into the fog.

Standing beside Medeo, Ben’s grey-green eyes surveyed the landscape stretching out before them. It must have been a remarkable place in its prime he thought. He imagined children enjoying themselves, and for a moment, even thought he could hear the faint sounds of their laughter. Shaking his head, he figured he must be hearing things, as the park had clearly been abandoned for quite some time. As he viewed the towering attractions, themed buildings, and multicolored booths adorning the now vacant park, he couldn’t help but wonder at the reason for its closure. While he pondered over it, a feeling of foreboding - perhaps, once again brought on by the fog - suddenly filled him with unease. This place seemed to him like the perfect haunt for Dark Pokemon. He spoke quietly to his little partner, “I don’t know, mate… I’ve got a bad feeling about this.” Glancing at Medeo, he noticed the hesitant look on the Meditite’s tiny face. Clearly his diminutive companion had also sensed something ominous about the eerie violet cloud and the empty park.

Dragging a hand through his short brown hair, Ben thought hard as he considered their next course of action. A terrible gambler with rotten luck, he had recently lost all of their coins at Jirachi's Casino. To make matters worse, their bellies were nearly as empty as his coincase. He couldn’t remember the last time they had had a decent meal. At that moment, almost as if in on cue, Medeo’s stomach gurgled pitifully. They were broke and they were hungry. Money and food were what they needed. While he completely expected the abandoned theme park would be unable to provide them with anything either fresh or edible, perhaps they could at least find something valuable to sell amongst the deserted booths. With that thought in mind, he nodded to Medeo and the two set off towards the game shacks ringing the outskirts of the park…

2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 1o | 11 | 12

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Old 11-26-2010, 11:17 AM   #7
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Session IV - The Glacier Island Jam (Glacier Islands)

Clackety-clack, clackety-clack, clackety-clack. Chewing up the rails on its daily trek across the arctic archipelago, the serpentine form of the Glacier Islands Express Train came into view as it snaked around a bend in the tracks. Whistling and tooting, it belched a great puff of grey-black smoke into the frosty air. To passengers riding in the multi-windowed observation car, the snow-capped trees dotting the region, and the waterfalls of ice dazzling along frozen streams, would undoubtedly have been a breath-taking sight. Wrapped in an eternal blanket of white, the chilly countryside gave off an air of purity and simplicity.

The beauty of the wintry landscape was lost on the Trainer Benjamin Hale and the Meditite Medeo, however. Only seconds ago, four angry-looking people had barged into the passenger compartment where the two had been relaxing. The irritated quartet now stood glowering at the astonished pair. “There he is, Officer!” a short, blonde-haired boy in a blue suit and tie exclaimed as he pointed an accusatory finger in Medeo’s direction. “He’s the thief!” The wealthy lad practically spat the last word. Dressed in a navy uniform, a portly, middle-aged man with a bushy mustache took a step toward the Yoga Pokemon, arms outstretched, trying to prevent an escape attempt. Reflexively, Medeo inched backward.

Slipping in front of his rapidly retreating friend, Ben positioned himself between the little Meditite and the train’s security guard. Ben held up his hands, palms forward, and calmly said, “Hold on a minute. Tell me what this is about.”

Standing near the room’s sliding doors, a distinguished man in a chestnut-colored blazer with matching fedora regarded the teenage trainer condescendingly. “We were enjoying a meal, my son, my wife, and I, when he…” Pausing briefly, the gentleman threw a scornful glare at Medeo.

“…stole my candy bar and cookies.” The rich boy interrupted, not waiting for his father to finish.

“They were imported from far-away Regions.” A prim woman in an elegant, emerald evening-gown interjected snobbishly, from her husband’s side.

The gentleman noisily cleared his throat before continuing. “Ahem. As I was saying, he pilfered my son’s desserts.”

Spinning around, Ben locked gazes with his diminutive companion. “Is this true, mate?” he asked, dreading the answer. Medeo nodded sheepishly, then hung his tiny, onion-shaped head in shame. “Aw, mate…” Ben said in exasperation, dragging a hand through his short brown hair. “We came here to bury our old lives, not revive them… I know you’re hungry - I am too - but we already agreed to give up thieving.” Turning to face the foursome, Ben spoke. “I apologize, sir. Medeo and I used to be members of the gang Red Gyarados. We’ve traveled to this land to help anyone in need and to atone for the wrongs of our past… It’s been a long time since we’ve had a decent bite to eat. Medeo didn’t mean anything by it, he was just hungry.” As if on cue, the Meditite’s stomach gurgled pitifully.

Harrumph. Why, you’re nothing but common criminals.” The socialite jeered.

“Your vulgar history and current state of malnourishment are of no concern to me,” the gentleman answered derisively. “I do, however, demand that you make complete restitution. I expect full compensation for the cost of my son’s desserts - consumed by your poorly-trained Meditite.”

It was now Ben’s turn to look sheepish. “Uh, well, you see, I, uh, kind of, uh, lost all our money at the Casino,” he said, glancing nervously at the man with the bushy mustache. “I’m broke and out of money. I can’t pay you back.”

Until now, the train’s officer had followed the conversation with only mild interest; he was supposed to be on break, and didn’t really care about a missing candy bar or cookies. However, at the sound of the words, “out of money,” the wheels in his mind started turning. Slowly. His brow wrinkled in deep concentration, he absentmindedly stroked his moustache. He continued stroking the sides of his cookie-duster, as he recalled hearing on his two-way communicator about a pair of stowaways who were supposedly hiding onboard the train. Suddenly, his face flushed a deep shade of crimson, as he rightly guessed that the pathetic, penniless pair in front of him were the rumored freeloaders. “DON’T MOVE!” the security guard bellowed. His big, booming voice echoed around the small compartment, causing the socialite to get dizzy and cover her ears. “How exactly did you pay for your train fare then, IF YOU DON’T HAVE ANY MONEY?!” he thundered, unclipping four Pokeballs from his belt. A bit of an overreaction; but Ben and Medeo exchanged an anxious glance and simultaneously took a step backwards. At the same time, the gentleman and his son realized they probably weren’t going to get any money back for the food Medeo had eaten, and produced four of their own costly Ultra Balls. At the sight of four more capture capsules, Medeo instinctively adopted the Might of the Dragonite Guardian pre-combat kung fu pose.

“I, uh, well…” Ben began, but the teenage trainer had seen enough. He knew this confrontation wasn’t going to end well for himself and Medeo. They needed to get out of there. Fast. Thinking quickly, he came up with an idea. “I’ve got a bad feeling about this one, mate… Quick, the window!” Ben exclaimed. “We’ve got to get out of here!” The perceptive Medeo guessed Ben’s plan instantly, and nodded. With all the speed of a fired BULLET, he PUNCHED the center of the panoramic window. With an ear-splitting crash, the glass exploded out; splintering into hundreds of miniature fragments at the force of Medeo’s blow. Immediately, a frigid gust of wind rushed in through the jagged hole in the wall. The swirling air created a mini-cyclone in the cabin that whipped off the dapper gentlemen’s fedora and tugged playfully at the bottom of the socialite’s skirt. Taking advantage of the momentary confusion, Ben yelled, “GO!” and before anyone could stop them, he and Medeo leaped through the broken window.


* * *

Adrenaline coursed through the veins of the Meditite Medeo as he dove headlong out the window of the speeding train. Savoring the momentary sensation of weightless freefall, he had only an instant to feel grateful that he wasn’t a Snorlax or some other sedentary Pokemon. Hugging his tiny knees to his chest, he tucked himself into a ball and front flipped in midair; rotating his limber body head-over-heels 360 degrees. As the ground rushed up to meet him, he deftly pulled out of his mid-air somersault. Bracing for touchdown, he extended his arms out in front of himself. His palms made contact with the earth first, leaving his little frame temporarily in a handstand position. He remained inverted for only a split second, however, and acrobatically swinging the rest of his upside-down body forward, nimbly executed a front roll. After tumbling through the powdery snow a few more times, he finally came to a rest in a seated position. Exhilarated, but unharmed, he watched as the train chugged out of view.

Ben had thought the air that had been let in through the window was cold, but the air that now smacked him in the face and screamed passed his falling body took his breath away and made his eyes water. He tried to roll himself into a ball like his little partner had done, but found he wasn’t limber enough to turn a somersault mid-air. Knowing there was no way he would land as athletically as Medeo, Ben was simply glad the drifted snow would provide a soft, cushiony landing. With a thud!, he landed awkwardly on his shoulder and skidded facedown in the snow for a few metres before coming to rest not far from his Meditite companion. Gasping, he rolled over onto his back and tried to catch his breath.

Ben lay on his back in the snow for a few minutes, staring up at the sky, breathing heavily. His shoulder hurt, and he knew it had taken the brunt of his landing. Sitting up, he sighed and rubbed it gingerly. It was going to hurt for a while. After a moment of gentle massage, the teenage trainer stood and brushed the snow off his canvas messenger bag. Lifting up the flap, he fished around inside the satchel for a moment and withdrew a Pink Pokeball. He pressed the round trigger switch in the center of the containment orb and a brilliant, scarlet light appeared, followed by a monochromatic wolfpup. Released from her makeshift prison, the Poochyena Hyneo threw back her head and gave a melancholy howl. Medeo, who himself despised the cramped confines and artificial atmosphere of his own capture capsule, immediately noticed Hyneo’s displeasure. Concerned, he quickly rose from his snowy seat, hurried over to the Bite Pokemon, and gently petted her between the ears. Grateful, Hyneo turned to the yoga Pokemon, barked happily, and jumping up, playfully licked his tiny face. Watching the interaction of his young companions, Ben felt sincerely thankful that they got along so well.

While his two tiny partners momentarily entertained themselves by rolling around in the snow, Ben surveyed the surrounding tundra with his grey-green eyes and considered their next course of action. He knew very little about this polar climate zone, besides what was already common knowledge. Surrounded by the great Southern Ocean, each of the iceberg islands could be easily accessed by taking the Glacier Train. The weather was extremely harsh and unforgiving, and he knew that if they weren’t careful, it would be easy to freeze to death. They would need to find a shelter of some kind soon. He had overheard stories from the passengers on the train of a powerful, enigmatic Pokemon, slumbering beneath the ice, and he shuddered at the thought of encountering it on its home territory.

Lost in thought, a sharp tug on his trouser leg suddenly snapped Ben back to reality. He glanced down at the belt-high Meditite at his side. “What’s up, mate?” he asked. Medeo grinned and pointed excitedly at something in the distance. Ben’s vision was not as good as the sharp-eyed Meditite’s and he had to strain to make out what it was. “Buildings?! Here?!” he finally remarked in astonishment. “It looks like some sort of small town. There doesn’t seem to be much else around. Why don’t we check it out?” Hyneo barked happily while Medeo nodded, and, full of curiosity, the trio set off in earnest toward the distant structures.

2 | 3 | 4 | 5

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Old 11-26-2010, 07:17 PM   #8
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Session V - Cortoza Jazz (Volcanic Island)

Splash! Splash! Two figures vanished quickly beneath the ocean’s choppy surface. As the white-capped waves lapped against the sides of the S.S. Serenity, the watchers aboard the luxurious ocean liner stared unblinkingly at the spot where the two figures had just gone under. Suddenly, the tiny, onion-shaped head of a male Meditite broke the surface. Coughing and spluttering, he spit out a mouthful of salty seawater and glanced anxiously from side-to-side, looking for his companion. Onboard the observation level, a young couple out for a romantic stroll heard the commotion. Concerned, they rushed to the railing and leaned over. They held their breath when they saw the look of panic on the face of the worried Meditite. Just then, a brown-haired teenage boy surfaced a few metres away from the Meditite, gasping desparately for air. Noticing the Meditite’s anxious expression at once, the teenager grinned sheepishly and shrugged. A look of relief crossed the Meditite’s face, while the young couple let out a grateful sigh.

At that moment, an angry, stentorian voice boomed from the lower starboard deck, causing the young couple to bolt in surprise. Almost as if they expected it, the teenager and the Meditite turned towards the ship.

“Tha’s ’ow we ’andle stowaways who don’ pay!” A stout, muscular sailor reprovingly brandished a mop in their direction. “Tryin’ ter ‘ideout in the cargo 'old are ya?! Well, ’ave fun swimmin’ ter the nearest isle! Haharr! Haharr!” Laughing cruelly, he pointed the wooden-handled mop at a small speck just barely visible on the horizon before disappearing through a door in the side of the ship. Unable to do anything, the young couple took one last look at the helpless pair bobbing up and down in the water, shrugged apologetically, and resumed their amorous walk around the deck.

Within moments, the ocean liner had gone, leaving the teenager and the Meditite all alone in the middle of the sea. The teenager, Benjamin Hale, a former member of the gang Red Gyarados - along with his reckless Meditite partner, Medeo - had traveled to this curious land in order to atone for the sins of his past by offering help to anyone in need. Things weren’t going so well however - as usual, they were out of money and food. Having blown all their coins at Jirachi’s Casino, the two friends had decided to stowaway amongst the boxes and crates in the cargo hold of the oceangoing vessel. Unfortunately, they had been discovered by a sailor scrubbing the bowels of the ship and had been uncerimoniously tossed overboard. Rocked back and forth by the waves, Ben turned to Medeo and shrugged. “Well mate, I guess there’s nothing left but to swim for it.” He motioned to the small island in the distance. Medeo nodded and they were off.


* * *

Many hours later, Ben and Medeo dragged themselves ashore; cold, sore, and tired, yet thankful they had not encountered any Tentacool or Sharpedo during their swim. Clothes dripping and teeth chattering, Ben turned to his diminutive companion, “L-l-l-let’s g-g-g-get a f-f-f-fire g-g-g-going, m-m-m-mate.”

Medeo nodded and the two friends began scouring the gritty beach for driftwood. After only a few minutes, they had piled up enough timber to get a good-sized blaze started. Still shivering, Ben said, “U-u-u-use f-f-f-fire p-p-p-punch, b-b-b-but n-n-n-not t-t-t-too h-h-h-hard or i-i-i-it’ll s-s-s-splinter.”

A FIERY aura surrounded Medeo’s fist as he picked up a piece of kindling. Rather than PUNCHing it though, he merely tapped it. The stick ignited almost instantly, and the yoga Pokemon hurriedly tossed it onto the pile. He repeated this process several times. When he had finished, satisfied with his labors he collapsed beside the blaze, exhausted from the work and the swim. While Medeo got the bonfire going, Ben disrobed, setting his drenched clothes and saturated messenger bag close to the heat to dry. Sitting down on the ground near his little partner, he joined the Meditite in gazing at the roaring flames.

Ben and Medeo enjoyed the fire’s warm embrace for a long while before Ben finally spoke. “I don’t know about you, but I’m hungry, mate. When was the last time we had anything to eat?” Medeo shrugged and held up his palms. “Yeah, I can’t remember, either.” Ben replied. He rose to his feet, and continued, “Well, we better see if we can find something to eat. Who knows how long we’ll be here.”

As Ben got into his no-longer soaked clothes, Medeo extinguished the fire by kicking sand, dirt, and rocks onto it. The Meditite came to an abrupt halt though, as he unearthed the tattered remains of an old flyer. With a quizzical look, he picked it up and handed it to Ben. Turning the torn scrap of paper over in his hand, Ben read it out loud. “Research Lab: A division of Volcanity Inc., this scientific team has set up equipment at several locations across the island in order to study the geological effects of past eruptions on the current environment, as well as to track any current seismic activity. Sometimes they can use some help, so if you offer your services you may be able to take on a job.” He glanced at Medeo. “What d’you think they pay, mate? We could sure use the money for food.” Medeo nodded eagerly.

Scanning their surroundings with his grey-green eyes, Ben considered their options. He picked up his messenger bag and slung it over his shoulder, remarking, “There’s not much to see here - ocean, beach, forest. We’ve already been in the ocean and I’ve got a bad feeling about the forest; let’s follow the coastline until we can find one of those Research Labs, or else someone who can guide us there.” Once again Medeo nodded his approval. Cramming the tattered flyer into his pocket, the black clad trainer fell into step beside the small Meditite, and the two set off along the beach in search of Volcanity Inc.’s Research Lab, unsure of what fate had in store for them…

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Old 11-26-2010, 09:46 PM   #9
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Session VI - Waltz for Lyanazia (Tribal Zone)

The trainer Benjamin Hale sat on the frontsteps of Jirachi’s Casino staring glumly ahead, chin in his hands, elbows on his knees. An empty coin case lay at his feet, pitiful testimony to the boy’s rotten luck. Next to Ben, a small Meditite lay on its back, hands behind its onion-shaped head, gazing up at the sky, searching for the shapes of its Poke-brethren in the drifting clouds. This was Medeo, Ben’s long-time friend and reckless traveling companion. Without warning, the reclining Meditite lifted a thin arm heavenward, extended his tiny index finger, and traced the familiar outline of a Koffing in one of the soaring, feathery wisps. When he had finished, his arm fell lazily to his side and he went back to his game of sky “I-Spy.”

Ben however, took no notice of him. As still as a Silcoon awaiting evolution, the boy sat lost in his thoughts, grey-green eyes fixed on nothing in particular. After a few still, silent moments where neither human nor Pokemon moved, and passerby on the street would certainly have mistaken them for statutes, the boy let out a deep sigh, turned to his lounging partner, and spoke. “Well, mate… I don’t know how else to say this, but…” He paused and shifted uncomfortably. “I’m sorry. I’ve los- …We’re out of money… again.”

The Meditite barely moved at these words. The boy’s remark didn’t surprise it in the least -- it was getting use to living in a state of perpetual poverty. It seemed that ever since they had traveled to the land of FB to put their past behind them, they had been either out of food, out of money, or out of both. It was true they had helped a lot of people and Pokemon on their journey throughout this curious world, but it had been usually done with empty pockets on an empty stomach. Ben was just about to open his mouth to continue when the sliding doors to the Casino suddenly opened with a Swish! An elderly, bald-headed man sporting a trim grey beard and a young man wearing an auburn trenchcoat and fedora stepped out into the fresh air, chatting amicably.

“That was some haul, eh, kid?!” the older man exclaimed, gently stroking his hoary stubble.

The man in the trenchcoat deftly flipped a gold coin into the air and caught it. “Yeah, they were practically givin’ the money away in there today! A person’d hafta be a pretty big nub not t’leave without a little somethin’ nice!”

The Yoga Pokemon quickly sat up and regarded its trainer with a jaundiced eye, but the boy merely shrugged and grinned sheepishly.

“Why I bet the only place you’da found better swag today was at Treasure Beach,” the young man continued.

“Oh you mean that place just offa Knot Island?” the oldster asked. “Ha ha! I remember that place -- pearls, stardust, bigger pearls; we found so much loot buried under the sand we couldn’t even carry it all! We had t’leave some of it behind!”

“Yeah that’s right,” his young friend replied, “but that ain’t all. Remember that pretty little swimmer I met at the Kindle Road Hot Springs right before we left for Kanto’s mainland? She told me that the tide washes new valuables up every day. Had something to do with the current round those parts.”

“Save the science lesson for school, kid,” the elderly man remarked. “Tell me more about that pretty little swimmer!”

“Oh no,” the young man responded with a chuckle. “What happens on Knot Island, stays on Knot Island!”

Laughing and joking, the two gamblers strolled off down the street. When they were out of sight, Ben turned to his diminutive comrade and the two shared an excited look. “Did you hear that, mate?!” he asked the Meditite, enthusiasm bursting forth from every word. “Treasure Beach?! Valuable items every day?! Natural Hot Springs?! Pretty swimmer girls?! We could really be on to something here!”

The little Meditite had heard it; his eyes grew wide as he eagerly nodded his onion-shaped head.

“Well then, what are we waiting for mate?!” Ben hollered. “Let’s go right now! Teleport us to Knot Island on the double!”

Medeo nodded excitedly again. With a Crackle! and a brilliant flash of blue light, the two friends immediately disappeared from sight.

* * *

Dizziness overtook Ben on the nearly instantaneous journey through the ethereal dimensions of time and space. It always did. As soon as his white adidas running shoes touched the ground once again, he took a few wobbly steps and tried to steady himself. His ears were ringing and he felt certain this how the last drop of toothpaste must feel when it's squeezed out of a tube that should have been thrown out a week ago. He gently massaged his forehead as he waited for the aftereffects of the otherworldly trek to wear off. To be honest, the boy hated traveling this way and would have rather gone by airship, boat, train, or car. They only Teleported when they had no other choice. Since they rarely had money for the various fares, that ended up being quite often. But no matter how many times he and Medeo resorted to Teleporting, it never got any easier. A quick glance at Medeo told Ben that the Yoga Pokemon felt the same way. The exhausted Meditite lay sprawled out on the ground, his tiny chest rising and falling heavily as he tried to regain his breath after his exertion. It wasn’t too much trouble for Medeo to perform a solo Teleport, but each additional passenger required a bit more of his energy. If only Marteo were big enough to Fly them everywhere Ben thought ruefully. The little Taillow had energy to burn.

Ben was just about to compliment his diminutive companion on his hard work and good effort when a powerful gust of wind suddenly pushed past his face with a mighty Fwoosh!, nearly knocking his breath right out of him. He shook his head rapidly from side-to-side to get rid of the last vestiges of dizziness and tried to think straight. Something wasn’t right. As another blast of wind muscled past him, Ben quickly scanned their surroundings with his grey-green eyes, and immediately figured it out. The landscape’s harsh terrain, accompanied by the conspicuous absence of seawater, led him to the following, startling conclusion: They weren’t on Treasure Beach!

Medeo had felt the wind, and tired as he was, instantly sat bolt upright. He realized they were in the wrong place too, and gave Ben a look that said, “I’ve got a bad feeling about this.”

Ben dragged a hand through his short brown and hair and tried to figure out what had gone wrong. After a moment of contemplating, he smacked his forehead in frustration as he suddenly figured it out. The distance to Treasure Beach must have been too far for Medeo to Teleport them across! The little Meditite had gotten them as far as he could, and then ran out of energy. Ben wondered how he could have been so dumb. He should have known that Medeo didn’t have the ability to transport them to a completely different Region. No Pokemon could.

So where exactly were they? Ben was curious. If he didn’t know any better he would have guessed that they were in the mountains somewhere. The air seemed thinner and cooler; the clouds were closer. Another quick visual sweep of the nearby countryside confirmed his suspicion. Then suddenly, off in the distance, he spied a small cluster of buildings and the sight caused him to bolt with surprise.

“See that, mate!” he exclaimed, pointing excitedly. Medeo’s onion-shaped head swiveled in the direction Ben indicated and nodded.

Ben knew it would be a while before Medeo had recovered enough of his energy to try Teleporting again. Until then, the boy reasoned it wouldn’t hurt to do a little sightseeing. “It looks like some sort of village,” he remarked. “But I can’t imagine why anyone would want to live way up here. The climb alone would kill even a veteran hiker. Maybe it’s deserted. Let’s go check it out.”

The Meditite didn't move, so Ben tried again. “C’mon. Aren’t you at least a little curious? Don’t you even want to find out where we are or if anyone lives there?”

Medeo groaned, rolled over onto his back, and waved his hand, motioning for Ben to go on alone.

“There might be some food,” Ben continued in a sing-song voice. “I know you’ve got to be hungry. We haven’t had a decent bite to eat in at least a week.” The little Meditite didn’t budge, but a sudden, pathetic whimper from his stomach betrayed him.

Ah ha! I knew it!” Ben yelled cheerily. And with that he grabbed one of Medeo’s thin arms, hoisted him up, and set off at trot for the village not knowing what they would find or what kind of adventure fate had in store for them once they arrived.

“Besides,” Ben continued as they hurried towards the tiny settlement. “I’m sure these mountains are home to all kinds of wild Pokemon that probably wouldn’t take too kindly to strangers sleeping in their nesting grounds.”

2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 1o | 11 | 12 | 13

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Old 11-26-2010, 09:48 PM   #10
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Session VII - Sacred Forest Rhapsody (Volcanic Mountain Region)

Sigh. William Benjamin Hale sat at the Small Desk in his room. A fluorescent lamp mounted on the adjacent wall bathed the boy’s workstation in light. In front of him, a blank piece of paper stared back at him; pitiful testimony to the boy’s difficulty with expressing his feelings. Sighing again, he rested his chin on a hand and gazed out the window. Unfortunately, there was no inspiration to be found in the gathering twilight.

He knew that after tomorrow he might not see her again, and yet he couldn’t find the words to say how he really felt. How do you put sixteen years of friendship into words, he wondered. Especially if it was a friendship on the verge of becoming something more? Those three little words didn’t seem to do the lifetime of memories justice.

At just that moment the telephone rang, interrupting his lack of progress. It was her. Grabbing the portable, he walked in circles around his room as they talked about nothing in particular for a long while. Talking just to talk. Just to make the moment last. When she agreed to meet him the next day at their spot, at the usual time, he thought he heard her voice catch. Was she was crying? Did she feel the same way he did? Before he could be sure though, she bid him goodnight, promising to see him in the morning.

Sadness at the thought of her impending departure suddenly overwhelmed him and he slumped to the ground with his back to the wall, wishing that things could stay the same forever…



* * *


Night’s last stars were winking out as early the next morning, he met her at White Rock. Laughing and talking, the two of them made their way toward the lofty hill overlooking Hoenn’s maritime Route 127. The massive back of a Wailord suddenly broke the surface of the sea, and the teenagers paused to watch it. Body arching, the enormous Float Whale Pokemon expelled excess water from its blowhole in a vertical spout, before playfully flicking "a goodbye" with its tailfin and disappearing into the depths.

In silence now they continued uphill, a light breeze from off the sea ruffling the girl’s hair and tugging mischievously at the hem of her sundress. Despite the earliness of the hour, the boy noted, she still possessed the gift of looking radiant. At their feet, the grass and wildflowers covering the ascent bowed in response to the gentle wind’s caress. The golden orb of the sun suddenly peeked over the horizon, painting the sky a soft shade of pink.

The TV reporters had forecasted a clear, sunny day - the eighth in a row - and from all of the earliest indicators, they were going to be right. The consistent, favorable weather was perfect for rocket launching, the very thing Mossdeep’s Space Center had planned for this morning, and the very reason the two teens had risen so early.

At the crest of the hill, she sat down in the grass, but he continued to stand. As they had done for numerous other rocket launchings, the twosome gazed in unison at Mossdeep’s Space Center. In contrast to the peacefully sleeping island, the research facility was alive with activity. Lights flashed and blinked, a voice announced something over the PA System, and technicians bustled around the launching pad, prepping the massive shuttle for departure. It was time.

The boy dragged a hand through his short brown hair, reached into his back pocket, and tremblingly pulled out his letter



* * *


Ben awoke with a start. In the east, the lemon yellow sun was just beginning its ascent. Reflexively, he dragged a hand through his short brown hair. He had been dreaming of her. Again. Why did he keep having these same dreams he wondered. Why couldn’t he just leave his former memories behind - leave her behind - in the past where they belonged? Flopping onto his back, he found comfort in the familiar snores of his Pokemon partners.

Snuggled in his sleeping bag, Ben sighed, rolled over onto his side, and tried to fall asleep again. However, chase as he might, slumber eluded him. Resigning himself to the fact that he wouldn’t be catching any Zs anytime soon, he executed another 180 degree spin, propped his head up on an elbow and gazed absentmindedly at the adjacent forest.

Volcanic Mountain's Forest. He and his team had camped on its outskirts last night after a long day of practicing and hiking. Reclining there, he watched the topmost branches of the aged trees swaying elegantly in an early morning breeze. For a moment, the boy was struck with the funny feeling that perhaps the noble elms, stately oaks, and dignified rowans might actually be watching him. Suddenly, he couldn’t help but wonder if this majestic forest hid some curious secret.

Shaking his head rapidly from side-to-side, he tried to brush it off. He had to be imagining things. Had to. He felt certain that the monotony brought on by their recent pattern of traveling and training, training and traveling, was beginning to wear on him. It had been too long since he and his teammates had helped anyone in trouble. He needed some sort of distraction, something to take his mind off his worries. After all, that was why he and Medeo had traveled to the land of FB in the first place; to help others and to put their past behind them. Sighing again, he lay on his back and looked up at the brightening sky. An adventure was just what he needed he realized after a while, and a new day was the perfect time to begin.

His mind made up, he immediately sat up and surveyed his still-snoozing team. The four tiny Pokemon had all slept peacefully with him out in the open field last night. Unbeknownst to Ben though, like their teenage trainer, each had had their own dream.

Curled at the boy’s feet, the lighthearted Poochyena Hyneo had dreamt of leisurely chasing Sentret in a sunlit meadow. Her tail wagged happily at the thought of catching one.

The dreams of Keo, Ben’s aggressive crustacean companion, centered around the thrashing of all his Krabby brethren - being the biggest, strongest River Crab, with the claws to match. The King of the Beach!

Deep in REM sleep, the gluttonous Makuhita Sumeo, had of course been envisioning the upcoming breakfast meal. A silly grin crept across his chubby face as he licked his lips and fantasized about being served a scintillating stack of flapjacks, tall as the Tin Tower, slathered in butter and bathed in gooey maple syrup.

Only the elegnat Medicham Medeo, perched on the branch of a nearby birch tree, had slept dreamless and free - so certain was he that he would one day achieve his destiny.

Observing his sleeping friends, Ben realized that it had been a while since he had made any additions to his lineup. Perhaps Volcanic Mountain's Forest would provide him with a new, suitable teammate. Not only that, the boy also felt certain that one, or maybe more of his loyal, battle-tested comrades, were on the verge of evolution. Even the eccentric Pineco Forteo, resting now in his Christmas Ball in Ben’s bag, was just one KO away from his final evolutionary stage. Ben knew that it would only take the right circumstances to unlock their latent, hidden strength.

Excitement welling inside him, he decided it was time to rouse the group and sang out, “Rise and shine, mates!”



* * *

After a bit of exercise and a light breakfast, that much to Sumeo’s chagrin, did not include a pile of pancakes, Ben hoisted his messenger bag to his shoulder, nodded towards the Volcanic Mountain's Forest, and set off with Medeo, Hyneo, Keo, and Sumeo at his side, unsure what adventures fate held in store for them…


2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 1o | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 2o | 21

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Old 11-26-2010, 09:50 PM   #11
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Session VIII - Mireno's Elegy (Riviera)

♪ ~ Ding ding dingdingding! ~ ♪ The PokeCenter’s HP Restore Machine whistled a familiar tune as it went through its well-rehearsed task of healing energy-depleted Pokemon. Six lights flashed on-and-off rhythmically, keeping perfect time with the whirring machine. On a cushioned bench in the nearby waiting area, a black-clad trainer drifted in and out of sleep while he waited for his partners to be rejuvenated. A magazine lay on his lap, open to an article on the mysterious Mireno Cemetery.

All at once a feminine voice hollered out the trainer's name, rousing him from slumber. “Hale?! William Hale?!”

At the sound of his name, the trainer's grey-green eyes snapped open, and he sat bolt upright. It had been a while since anyone had called him by his first name, and for a moment he wondered how the woman knew it. But as she repeated her summons, he realized the Center's computer scanner must have automatically uploaded the profile information from his Trainer ID Card to its database when he checked his team in.

The receptionist continued to page him, but he hesitated, pondering for a moment that it was now just over a year since he had arrived in the curious land of FB. Seeking to bury his former life and start over fresh, the boy had traveled under his middle name, Benjamin, up til now, hoping that one day it would help him finally put his past behind him. During the previous twelve months, he had gone on many strange adventures, encountered a variety of Pokemon, and met a number of unforgettable people. Time and again he found himself in situations where he had the opportunity to fight for justice, help those in need, and stand up for the defenseless.

As the receptionist once again called his name, the black clad boy put on a determined expression and resolved to continue on his quest to lend aid to anyone who needed it, no matter what it cost him. He knew he had made the right decision to give up his former way of life, but he wasn’t so sure if it had been right to try to change his identity. Sitting there in the waiting room of the PokeCenter, he realized the time for hiding out under his middle name was over. It was time to accept who he was, starting with acknowledging his true name.

“William Hale are you here or not?!” the woman repeated again, this time with more than a touch of irritation. It was nearing her break time, and this overdue trainer was begin to irk her. “If you don’t get up here in ten seconds, it’ll take more than an HP Restore Machine to heal YOU! One, two, three…”

At the sound of the woman’s good-natured threat, the trainer sprang to his feet, haphazardly sending the magazine on his lap to the floor. He hastily raised his hand in reply and dashed across the reception room to the woman’s workstation, as she continued with her countdown. The six Poke Balls housing his loyal traveling companions sat in a box on a nearby countertop.

“Are you William Hale?” the nurse asked in annoyance. “It sure took you long enough to answer.”

“Yeah, that’s me… I’m Will.” the boy replied, grinning sheepishly. “Sorry, I guess my mind was somewhere else.”

The nurse’s countenance softened at the boy’s sincere apology. Teenagers were always the same she mused. She waved it off and reached for the box holding his containment orbs. Handing it over to him, she nodded politely and remarked, “Well anyways, thanks for waiting. I’ve restored your Pokemon to full health. Remember we’re here if you need us, and we hope to serve you again.”

Will returned the woman’s nod with a grateful one of his own, placed his Poke Balls in the grey canvas messenger bag he had slung across his back, and turned to leave.

* * *

Some time later, Will stood in front of the crumbling remains of Mireno, a look of apprehension on his face. A veteran of many journeys, his nervousness didn't come from the uncertainity surrounding the adventure he was about to embark on, but rather from its grim location. He had come to this remote area to do a bit of exploring, but as he scanned his eerie surroundings he was suddenly hit by a sense of foreboding. Shuddering, he took a tentative step forward.

“Maybe coming here wasn’t such a good idea after all,” he muttered under his breath. “I’ve got a bad feeling about this…”

2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 1o | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19

Last edited by Hayward; 02-02-2011 at 08:58 AM.
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Old 06-29-2011, 09:21 PM   #12
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Session IX - Dream Trance (Dream World)

VROOOOM! VROOOOOM! VROOOOM! VROOOOOOOOOOOOOM! Engines roaring boisterously, exhaust pipes belching grey-black smoke, two dozen motorcycles thunder down the road like a herd of diesel-powered Donphan on a runaway stampede. Their presence clearly defiles the purity and tranquility of the otherwise peaceful FB countryside, polluting the air and frightening away the wild Pokemon. The bike riders don’t seem to care however. Each one wears a cold, violent look as they urge their bi-wheel machines on. They are the Wild Riding Gang!

Heavily tattooed and heavily scarred, some of the drivers sport unconventional hairstyles like mohawks or dreadlocks, while others look more like skinheads. Most of them brandish whips in their hands or swing chains above their heads, and the majority wear leather jackets, festooned with either the image of a vicious Gyarados or devious Krookodile on the back. Each one of the riders is a rough-looking man, and each has his gaze fixed on a trio of figures, running as fast as they can towards a yawning chasm, just a short distance ahead. The bikers close the gap in no time however, and corner the threesome in the center of a large suspension bridge.

Running for their lives, the beauty of the rustic landscape is also lost on the three travelers, one lean and lithe, one the size of a small mountain, and the other clad in a black t-shirt and tawny-colored cargo shorts. Their lungs burn, their muscles cramp, and exhaustion threatens to overtake them, yet they don’t dare slow down, knowing who is hunting them. Barreling on at full speed, they reach the bridge and hope to get to the other side, where maybe they can hide out in the dense woods. Suddenly one motorcycle goes screaming past on their right, then another, and another, and another, until finally they’re cut off in front and in back and have no choice but to stop and confront their pursuers.

Clutching at a cramp in his abdomen, the youth tries desperately to get a full breath while his companions, a Medicham and Hariyama, flank him, awaiting the Wild Riding Gang to make the next move. Chains rattle and a whip cracks as the bikers dismount their motorcycles and slowly form themselves into a crescent shape around the boy and his Pokemon. Pokeballs can be seen hanging from their studded belts, and the boy supposes their occupants are well-trained and ferocious. Suddenly everything gets quiet and the mob of bikers parts in the middle. A tall, muscular man with long hair and a beard steps forward and demands to know the boy’s name, then orders him to hand over all his money and supplies, including his Pokedex and Pokeballs, if he wants to live.

The boy puts on a brave face and introduces himself as Will Hale a trainer from Pacifidlog Town, Hoenn. He then goes on to state that he is not afraid of the Wild Riding Gang because he was once a former gang member himself, but has now seen the error of his ways, and traveled to the curious realm of FB in order to get a fresh start at life by helping those in need. Will goes on say that he suspects deep down the bikers are looking for camaraderie just like he was, and by traveling with Pokemon, he has made friends with people from all over the world. Much to the long-haired biker’s amusement, Will then concludes by encouraging the members of the gang to do the same and promises they won’t regret it.

At this speech, one of the bikers in the crowd, a gigantic, hulking bald man in a leather vest, laughs loudly at the thought of Will being a former gang member turned trainer and begins to insult the boy and his Pokemon, which immediately ticks off both Will and the Medicham, Medeo. Medeo instinctively puts up its fists to fight, and Will smirks, impudently calling the man a “Cue Ball” and taunting him to “Come get some.” This arrogant comment makes the roughneck fume with rage and he hollers to his cronies that its time to just pulverize the boy and take all of his money, supplies, and Pokemon by brute force. The half-circle of bikers surrounding the threesome starts to get smaller and smaller as the goons get closer and closer, and Will knows he needs to come up with a plan soon.

The trio backpedal as Will drags a hand through his hair and quickly considers their options. The way he sees it, they can either surrender all their belongings to the hoodlums or they can fight back. Frowning, Will feels unhappy that they always have to live in poverty and decides that he is not going to hand over the little money they do have. However, Will also realizes that even if he sends his full team out to battle, his Pokemon will be facing insurmountable odds. He grins momentarily at the thought of the Wild Riding Gang surrendering to them, but knows it would never happen and quickly dismisses the notion as wishful thinking.

Will glances at his partners, faithfully standing guard on either side of him, and wonders what they’re thinking. Medeo quickly adopts the offensive Kung Fu stance known as Gyarados Sweeps his Tail and Will is not surprised that the mystic wants to throw down and teach these bullies a lesson. The Hariyama Sumeo however, takes a nervous bite of Leftover apple and regards the thugs apprehensively. It’s clear he’s reluctant to battle, but would consent to fighting if its what Will decides upon.

Will suddenly feels his back brush up against the bridge’s railing and knows there is nowhere left for them to run. On the right, Medeo grits his teeth as beads of sweat begin to appear on his forehead. To Will’s left, Sumeo turns to spit a few apple seeds over the edge of the railing in preparation for battle and instantly feels dizzy at being up so high. Suddenly though, Sumeo’s countenance changes. His chubby face brightens as he points to the river far below, winding away off into the distance like a thin blue snake, and Will bolts with surprise at the realization that Sumeo has found them a third option.

As the gang closes in on the trio, Medeo realizes Sumeo’s intention and puts on a determined expression, firmly shaking his head from side-to-side in protest. Sumeo however, counters by eagerly shaking his head up-and-down with a silly grin on his face. Will looks hesitant, nervously biting his lip, not sure how they should proceed. From this height, jumping is risky and could be fatal. But, it is also their best choice, and Will reasons that the Wild Riding Gang would be crazy to follow them over the ledge into the river. Furthermore, by the time the gang make it down to the riverbank by other means, the river would most likely have carried the trio away to safety. With a shrug, Will agrees to go with Sumeo’s plan, and nods his head alongside the Guts Pokemon, grinning in a silly manner as well.

Smacking his forehead in frustration, Medeo finally relents, and the threesome quickly prepare to jump. Will hurries to secure the straps on his messenger bag, not wanting to lose his Pokeballs or supplies in the fall. The Wild Riding Gang realize what the trio are planning and quickly sprint forward to stop them. Not wasting any time, Sumeo stuffs the Leftovers he is munching into one of his boxing gloves, scoops up his trainer in his arms, and he and Medeo nimbly hop onto the bridge’s railing, making rude faces at the gang before quickly turning and jumping out into nothingness, each exclaiming their species’ names as they plummet down, down, down towards the rushing waters below.

“Mediiiiii!”

“Yaaaaa---maaaaa!”

As they approach the river, Medeo performs an elegant swan dive, while Sumeo hugs Will tightly to his chest with one hand and pinches his massive nose closed with the other, trying to keep out the water during impact. Will squeezes his grey-green eyes shut and clutches tightly to the Hariyama’s Thick layer of Fat. Sumeo enters the water with a colossal SPLASH! like a cannonball, while Medeo hardly disturbs the river’s surface at all, leaving only tiny ripples behind in his wake.

Up on the bridge, the Wild Riding Gang lean over the edge and stare unblinkingly at the spot where the trio have just gone under. Suddenly, three heads break the surface of the water, and every one of the hooligans lets out a surprised gasp at seeing the boy and his Pokemon alive and unharmed. Will, Medeo, and Sumeo exchange happy grins, and with a laugh, wave farewell to the watchers on the bridge, who can only just curse and shake their fists in anger as the river’s current quickly rushes the threesome away.


* * *


Sometime later, Will, Medeo, and Sumeo recline on a bank near the river’s mouth, sunning themselves, and laughing and joking about their narrow escape. Sumeo huffs and puffs, its massive chest rising and falling as it struggles to catch its breath, and Will knows the Hariyama is exhausted not only from the long run, but also from having safely transported him and Medeo down the river using its Surf technique. Sincerely thanking the Guts Pokemon for all it did, Will recalls Sumeo to its Steel Ball, and grinning, remarks that it has earned a nice long rest. He places the silver capture capsule in his bag then stretches himself out on the sandy riverbank and states that he is also ready for a nap.

Medeo nods its head in agreement and adopting the Lotad position, instantly enters a meditative state. With a light-hearted chuckle, Will thinks to himself that its been quite some day thus far and begins to drift off to sleep.


* * *

Only moments later, though it could have been much longer than that, he couldn't really be sure, Will awakens to find himself in a land much different than the one he fell asleep in. Rubbing his eyes, he sits up and looks around in amazement at his new surroundings. Nearby he spies a brilliant, multi-colored rainbow arcing off into the distance. Floating above the translucent arch is a little pink egg-shaped Pokemon covered in lavender colored flowers. The Pokemon smiles cheerfully and beckons to Will to follow it. Not really sure why he’s doing it, perhaps simply out of curiosity, the boy obediently consents, scrambling to his feet and quickly grabbing his messenger bag off the ground next to him. Slinging it across his shoulder, he trots off after the mysterious creature, as it leads him on a merry chase across the rainbow bridge. As Will and his peculiar Pokemon guide reach the opposite side, the little pink creature turns to regard Will and gives the boy a knowing wink, before suddenly disappearing from view, leaving him at the edge of a peaceful wood.

Wondering what strange adventure Fate has in store for him this time, Will takes a tentative step forward into the Pleasant Forest

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 1o | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 | 21





Last edited by Hayward; 11-09-2011 at 10:11 PM.
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Old 01-08-2012, 07:38 PM   #13
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The Ballad of Aduro Isle

“U-nite-ed!”

Clap! Clap! Clap!

“U-nite-ed!”

Clap! Clap! Clap!

“U-nite-ed!”

Clap! Clap! Clap!

On a tropical isle somewhere deep within the curious realm of FB, a black-clad teenager and an overgrown river crab leisurely make their way off the ferry docks, the boy uproariously reciting the cheer of his favourite Football Club, Blackthorn United, as they stroll along. The Indomitable Dragons, as the club is known in the Johto Premier League, have a long and illustrious history that stretches back many generations, and William Hale, the boy currently clapping and cheering, is one of their biggest fans. He considers himself to be an expert on anything having to do with the Dragons, having followed the club since his youth. The grey canvas messenger bag he carries slung over a shoulder bears an iron-on patch of the team’s crest: a pair of majestic Dragonair on either side of a shield, tails intertwined, their regal-looking heads facing away from each other.

Will’s bedroom back home in Pacifidlog Town is decorated with newspaper clippings and posters of the Dragons’ most talented players, including the midfielder captain Owen Crosby, and Sawyer Keane their goalkeeper with lightning quick reflexes. The team’s easily-recognizable navy and crimson flag hangs from his ceiling, while his most prized possession, a ball autographed by the goal-scoring striker Ian Fitch, sits on a shelf above his Small Desk. Happily lost in thought, the boy suddenly breaks out in the club’s anthem, singing boisterously at the top of his lungs, while the crustacean at his side clacks its pincers in time to the tune.

♪ ♫ I’m for-ever chasing bubbles, ♫ ♪
♫ ♪ Fizzy Bubbles in the air… ♪ ♫
♪ ♫ They fly so high, ♫ ♪
♫ ♪ Nearly reach the sky, ♪ ♫
♪ ♫ Then like my dreams, ♫ ♪
♫ ♪ They fade and die… ♪ ♫
♪ ♫ Fortune’s al-ways hiding ♫ ♪
♫ ♪ I’ve looked everywhere, ♪ ♫
♪ ♫ I’m for-ever chasing bubbles ♫ ♪
♫ ♪ Fizzy Bubbles… in… the… air… ♪ ♫

As if on cue, the Kingler Kéo blows out a stream of tiny aquamarine-tinged Bubbles from its mouth. The two travelers watch as the transparent spheres slowly drift off into the sky before bursting with a barely audible Pop! At the sight of this, they break out into hysterical laughter and happily rush off deeper into the countryside.

* * *

Will and Kéo follow the route in silence for quite some time, enjoying the sights and sounds of their scenic surroundings. Jutting rocks, jagging crevasses, and dark sandy beaches dot the harsh and rugged landscape. Will now sports a conical straw hat reminiscent of an upside-down bamboo basket on his head and holds a long bug catcher’s net over one shoulder, while Kéo scuttles along merrily at his side. After a while they arrive at a large area of spewing geysers which Will has learnt is rumoured to be the central hub of the island.

Quote:
Originally Posted by enchantress View Post
Geyser Park - A particularly interesting region, a part of the island has been converted into a park in which a dozen or so large geysers spew boiling water from the ground almost simultaneously, providing a breathtaking sight. This is pretty much the central hub of the island.

Shielding his grey-green eyes with his free hand, Will scans the craggy landscape before him, hoping he’s in the right place and really hoping that their trip to Aduro Island won’t be in vain. As a sweat trickles down his face, the teenage trainer recalls that the Pokémon he's hunting is known to inhabit areas surrounding volcanoes. He silently hopes to himself that fate will guide his hand and fortune will be kind to him on his quest. After a few moments, he reaches into his side-strap courier bag and pulls out a sable Version I Pokédex to his aid.

Blip-blip. Bleep-bloop. A faint, cobalt bulb winks on as the boy quickly presses a few buttons and the hand-held data device whistles harmoniously to life.

“Skarmory. The Armour Bird Pokémon,” a nasally robotic voice intones. “After nesting in bramble bushes, the wings of its chicks grow hard from scratches by thorns. Its sturdy wings look heavy, but its bones are hollow and light, allowing it to fly freely in the sky. Despite being clad entirely in iron-hard armour, it flies at speeds over 180 mph. Skarmory’s steel wings become tattered and bashed in from repeated battles. Once a year, the battered wings grow back completely restoring the cutting edges to their pristine state. It is said that people in the past once used the fallen feathers to make swords and knives.”

Will studies the information on the display screen for a few moments before placing the Pokédex back in his bag. After one more quick glance around the place, he turns to Kéo and remarks with a grin, “Well, mate, let’s see if we can find any bramble bushes around here...”

Last edited by Hayward; 06-14-2012 at 08:27 AM.
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