File: Growlithe.jpg (6 KB, 225x225)

6 KB JPG

>>6398360
>>6398576

"That's easy." You tell Martha as you finish up your shower and shut off the water. "I'm going to evolve Blitz and get him used to being an Arcanine."

"Solid choice." She agrees. "He seems strong enough for it. You gotten through those obedience issues he was having?"

"More or less." You confirm as you finish toweling off and start getting dressed. "That'll be part and parcel of this morning though - keeping up with the obedience training once he's evolved just to make sure its stuck."

Internally, you think back to the fight against Emma and how well he did there, especially against her Incineroar.

He'd been damn quick on the uptake there and the image of him bounding over Incineroar's first Bulldoze after Emma had hit him with that first Flamethrower and you've found yourself wondering just how far the two of you could get with obedience training since, because even if your team are all damn clever in your view, you're pretty sure that in the same situation, none of them would've been quite as quick on the uptake there as Blitz was. Not because of any deficiency on behalf of the rest of your team though, but rather because you've just not been training them that way.

In that sense, Blitz's unruliness pushing you to specifically give him obedience training has opened up some interesting options for how you could take that training further, but for now, those thoughts are a little theoretical.

First of all, you need to evolve him.

(Part 1)

File: Arcanine_Card_2.jpg (21 KB, 189x267)

21 KB JPG

>>6400770

That in mind, once you're dressed you head out and swap Rusty for Blitz then go outside to the arena and release him.

He goes to jump on you in excitement on seeing you but sits, still positively vibrating, when you tell him to, beaming up at you adoringly, before you produce the Fire Stone you brought back in Silveridge after some rummaging and holding it out before Blitz.

It glows in the rising sun and Blitz glows in sympathy before his outline wavers and expands before there's a flash before in his place is an Arcanine whose shoulder is level with your head peering down at you expectantly.

You suddenly feel both very small and very glad that you've been doing that obedience training.

Looking down at the stone, you see it disintegrating into a fine, red powder, which Martha is quick to collect in a small bag.

"Spent stones disintegrate, but the powder they leave behind is useful in stuff like supplements." She explains once she's tied the bag off.

"Huh, neat." You reply, before shifting your back to Blitz. "Okay Blitz, let's start with some agility work..." You begin.

>Roll

Rolled 27 (1d100)

>>6400787

Rolled 67 (1d100)

>>6400787

Rolled 38 (1d100)

>>6400787

File: Arcanine_Card.jpg (162 KB, 734x1024)

162 KB JPG

>>6400790
>>6400793
>>6401004

You decided to start with Agility work for two reasons:

First, Blitz is already familiar with the move, so it'll be relatively easy for him to perform, even all grown up now as he is.

And second, because it's a good way to acclimate him to his new body, making him move and move deftly within the confines of the arena.

Even knowing how fast Arcanine can move though, you're a little caught off guard at how quickly Blitz runs through the exercises you set - running a lap, stopping at each corner to do a tight circle, ducking down halfway through the short sections, jumping on the long boundaries and eventually, slaloming through a series of traffic cones sat by the wall down the diagonal.

He doesn't do any one run perfectly straight out the gate, but by the time you're putting it all together, you're confident that he's he's adapting well to being an Arcanine.

The sun is well and truly up by now and you're both warmed up from these exercises. Nothing you haven't done before with him, but doing something new wasn't the point of the exercise. Acclimation was. Now that you're sure he is acclimated though, you have some time to do some more training.

>Work on some more advanced advanced obedience training.
>Do some stat training. (Which one)
>Saddle Blitz up and start training him as a mount.
>Teach Blitz a new move. (Choose)
>Blitz is doing fine for now. Train someone else.
>Other

>>6401175
>Teach Blitz a new move. (Choose)
Flare Blitz

>>6401188
Yolo as the kid says.

>>6401188
>>6401407

Roll. This is going to be a process and there's a risk of Blitz getting injured since he's not quite at the level of experience where he would learn Flare Blitz.

Rolled 32 (1d100)

>>6401489
Can Rascal help with Brave Bird? Same but different

Rolled 6 (1d100)

>>6401489
Hotdog

Rolled 64 (1d100)

>>6401489
Natty 100

>>6401493
>>6401700
>>6401851

"Say, Martha..." You say once Blitz has laid himself down for a rest after the past hour or so of agility and obedience drills.

"Yeah?"

You don't need to be able to sense other people's emotions to tell that she's cautious. Not that you blame her, because this is going to be a bit of an ask.

"You mind helping out with this next bit? I'm going to start teaching Blitz Flare Blitz." You reply, before working your jaw meditatively. "...Might be regretting naming him that now."

Martha chuckles.

"Good call." She admits. "I've been working on teaching my Rapidash that move as well. It's slow going, but I can give you some pointers to help keep him from hurting himself." She adds. "Have you taught him Flame Charge?" She asks.

You shake your head and it occurs to you that Sage doesn't know that move either.

"Well, we'll start there since the principle is the same," she says. "That Braviary of yours ought to be able to pick up on some of the same principles down the line as well and make it easier for him to learn Brave Bird."

"Handy." You admit.

"It is, but don't push it. He did just evolve and this is a risky move to be teaching him at his level of experience." Martha warns. "I'm only agreeing to help you because I know you're not about to go pushing him harder than he can manage, but if I call stop, you stop. Got it?"

"Got it."

The next hour is filled with teaching Blitz Flame Charge as a foundation, which takes very little time at all, since he knows the basic principle thanks to knowing Fire Fang and Quick Attack and this is just applying those skills in a different combination. Then, comes the tricky part - amplifying the power behind the move and controlling the recoil.

Martha explains how to do this in a controlled manner and has her Rapidash demonstrate their methodology for you, before Blitz copies her.

Or tries to, at any rate. This is what consumes the majority of the morning until nine o'clock, with Blitz trying to produce an aura of the relevant intensity and achieving wreathing himself in flame, but not achieving the intense heat Flare Blitz calls for and then practicing tackling through - a skill that Blitz is already good at, but this requires more commitment than he's used to and by the time you and Martha call a halt, he's tuckered out and needs a rest.

(Part 1)

>>6401963

"Well, that was a good start." Martha concedes. "He got Flame Charge with no difficulty." She adds, rubbing her chin thoughtfully. "Might be an idea to teach him Flame Wheel and Take Down first as bridging moves - things he can practice to get the technique necessary for Flare Blitz down. It's what I've been doing with my Rapidash and we've been making steady progress on it. Honestly, Blitz did better than I thought he would there." She adds. "Very least, he's got the foundational skills for Flame Wheel and Take Down out of it."

"Well, that's good." You reply, but you feel a little dissatisfied.

"Credit for your thoughts?" Martha asks, evidently catching some trace of it in your voice.

>It just feels like I'm not getting anywhere.
>For every step forward I take, it feels like I'm taking two steps back.
>I get that learning a move as big as Flare Blitz is a process, but this feels like it's taking too long.
>It's nothing, just a bit antsy. Let's go bail Daisy out and get going.
>Just... missing Fie.
>Other

>>6401990
>>For every step forward I take, it feels like I'm taking two steps back.

>>6401990
>For every step forward I take, it feels like I'm taking two steps back.

>>6402029
>>6402256

"For every step forward I take, it feels like I'm taking two steps back." You reply.

"You have done a fair bit of backtracking lately." Martha admits. "But take it from someone who's done this before: You're doing great." She says seriously. "You've got a strong team and a bunch of pokemon a lot of really competitive trainers wish they had." She adds. "You're also not doing this alone. You've got Holly and Gareth you can train with, plus me and the others. And you've got Fie willing to help you. You're in great shape. All you need to do now, is focus on training."

You nod.

She's right, but this still feels daunting. And the back-tracking has definitely gotten to you.

And if you're honest, the trek ahead down Route 5. It's nearly two weeks' walk to Halfway City and even if you've got Blitz, he can't carry everyone. Even pairing up Gareth or Holly with Martha and her Rapidash doesn't solve the problem either, considering you might be about to have someone joining your group.

"Thanks, Martha." You say, after taking a deep breath and doing your best to let go of the trepidation you feel.

"Think of it this way: For near enough the next two weeks, you're going to have plenty of time just to train and battle." She adds.

You hadn't thought of it that way, but that is a fetching thought.

"If you want some advise from me: Split your team half and half between pokemon you want to train more and pokemon you want with you for battling and helping with stuff around the camp." She adds.

"Well, guess I know what I'm going to be thinking on this morning." You say, before your watch informs you that the police station should be open.

(Part 1)

File: vintage-scales-justice-st(...).jpg (31 KB, 728x408)

31 KB JPG

>>6402810

You head in to find Holly and Gareth waiting for you and together, you head for the court house.

The Team Green hearings are slated for the morning and a matter of the local magistrate at present, so you have no issue sitting in to watch.

It's a half hour you're sitting there before Daisy's hearing and like the others so far, it's mercifully brief and to your surprise, the charges she's facing are remarkably light - just trespassing, which with a guilty plea, gets her off on a twelve month good behaviour bond and a small fine without a conviction being recorded much to her evident relief.

She's escorted off after that and you watch a few more hearings, including Laurel's and compared to all the other hearings so far, she's got a bunch of more serious charges in front of her. Not just trespassing, but criminal damage, conspiracy, several counts of aggravated assault and nearly one of contempt of court when she attempts to protest the magistrate about the assault charges, despite her solicitor trying to shut her up.

In the end, she's remanded with a seventy-five k bail bond and hauled off in a towering temper before the next case is called.

You watch a couple more hearings before quietly removing yourself, feeling cheered at the knowledge you shouldn't be seeing Laurel again for a long while and hopefully never again.

>>6402813

You meet Daisy outside the courthouse.

She looks dazed and is clutching a pair of poke balls for dear life but otherwise, she looks fine.

And upon seeing you she runs over, throws her arms around you and starts sobbing.

"Thank you...!" She manages in between sobs, before looking up, face tear streaked and nose running. "I don't know what I'd have done if you hadn't come along!"

>It's fine. You seem okay, you just fell in with a bad crowd.
>Make the most of this opportunity. Second chances don't come along every day.
>I'm sure you'd have figured something out.
>Other

>>6402814
>>It's fine. You seem okay, you just fell in with a bad crowd.

>>6402814
>>It's fine. You seem okay, you just fell in with a bad crowd.

>>6402908
>>6402980


"It's fine. You seem okay, you just fell in with a bad crowd." You assure awkwardly, giving her a pat on the shoulder before she releases you. "And I'm sure you'd have figured something out. The pokemon center Would've helped out."

She makes a face and you get the impression from her that she didn't think of that.

"Got some bad service in the past, huh?" Martha guesses, evidently seeing the look on Daisy's face.

"...Yeah." She says at length, then fidgets. "...So... where are you guys headed?" She asks.

"Genesis Cave, then on to Halfway City." You reply.

"Oh." She blinks. "...I uh... I won't be getting in your way, will I?"

"Nah, even if you're kind of a rookie trainer, the hike we're about to go on will give you plenty of opportunity to improve." Martha assures.

"I've only got two pokemon though." Daisy says. "And well..." She shrugs hopelessly. "The clothes on my back and that's it."

"Team Green didn't even give you a list of stuff to pack for that little outing, huh?" You say, feeling your estimation of them somehow slip lower.

She shakes her head.

“I’ll spot you.” Martha says, tiredly. “Arceus knows, you’re not going to have a fun time doing Route 5 with just the clothes on your back.” She adds. “This’ll take a bit - I’ll see you guys back at the pokemon center. Figure out if we’re renting a Rhyhorn for pack duty or not or something.”

“That’s just cruel.” Daisy says.

“Rhyhorn have been known to collapse buildings on themselves and walk out like nothing happened.” Gareth says. “Carrying bags on their backs, or even full-on wagons is not an issue for them.” He adds seriously.

“Oh.” Daisy says, taken aback.

Evidently, this is news to her.

>Ask Daisy about herself.
>Were Team Green really making pokemon out to be fragile and helpless?
>Go see about renting a Rhyhorn for pack duty.
>Go and get your team sorted for the journey.
>Other

>>6403349
>>Were Team Green really making pokemon out to be fragile and helpless?

>>6403349
>Were Team Green really making pokemon out to be fragile and helpless?

>>6403349
>>Were Team Green really making pokemon out to be fragile and helpless?

>>6403534
>>6403540
>>6403730

Head's kind of fucked, update might be delayed.

>>6403534
>>6403540
>>6403730

"Were Team Green really making pokemon out to be fragile and helpless?" You ask incredulously.

"Um... yes?" Daisy says. "They are though, aren't they? I mean... they can't break out of poke balls once they're caught." She adds.

"Don't you believe it." You reply with a chuckle, thinking of your mother's routine exasperation with her Wobbuffet. "Pokemon are with a trainer right up until they get sick of that trainer's shit."

"Oh." Daisy says.

She's silent after that and you get the feeling that your assertion is challenging something that she took as a given.

What the context could be, you don't know, but it seems like she had reason to actually buy that load of Rapidash shit.

Whatever the case, it seems a bit pushy to try and get an answer now, so you head back to the pokemon center for the time being while Martha takes Daisy to get some gear for the journey ahead, leaving you with some time to get some last preparations in.

>Go see about renting a Rhyhorn for pack duty.
>Go and get your team sorted for the journey.
>See if you can't squeeze in a battle.
>See if you can't squeeze in a bit more training for one of your team.
>Other

Present Team:
Syurm (Leavvany)
Ayumi (Dratini)
Fluffy (Eevee) (Everstone)
Volta (Luxray)
Sage (Braixen) (Everstone)
Blitz (Growlithe)

Companion slot: Latias

>>6404362
>>Go see about renting a Rhyhorn for pack duty.

>>6404362
>Go see about renting a Rhyhorn for pack duty.

File: Map.jpg (67 KB, 963x708)

67 KB JPG

>>6404375
>>6404640

When you get back to the pokemon center, you look at your map again and take a closer look at Route 5.

It's long. It makes Route 2 - which is a two day hike from New Port to Silveridge without counting your detour around Lake Clarity - look like an actual walk in the park.

"Really glad we bought that camp shower." You say, before a thought strikes you. "Hey, Holly-" You begin.

She giggles.

"Yeah, good catch." She says, apparently having read your mind. "We could do with some more soap." She says, after she's checked all your bags, before waving and heading for the kiosk to buy some.

"She's been practicing." Gareth observes approvingly.

"I'll have to get some meditation in later. Really should do some more, now that we're about to close in on Origin Cave." You add.

"It'll help, but more in a 'keeping yourself attuned' way." He agrees.

"Do you think we'll need a Rhyhorn?" You ask after another moment spent studying the map and the distances between the major camp spots and roadhouses.

Three days between them, on average. The camp grounds noted have toilets, showers, water stores, public stoves and electricity, while dozens of little icons between them denote more rustic sites that have maybe a firepit and small sheltered seating area, or a clothes line or - luxury of luxuries - an outhouse.

Minimalist, but the Arnet League has always maintained that the big appeal and a major part of the challenge of the League, has been the difficulty inherent of tackling the Cardinal Routes.

You've heard exaggerated horror stories from friends from overseas about the Cardinal Four as they're called, but honestly, they don't sound too bad to you. Tough, sure. But only dangerous if you're a novice camper or don't prepare accordingly.

And the dearth of major camp sites noted on the route is a positive in your eyes: You enjoyed staying at the Lake Clarity grounds precisely because it was a one off. The fun of camping to you has always been in turning a clearing or a thicket into a comfortable space.

(Part 1)

File: rhyhorn.jpg (124 KB, 846x918)

124 KB JPG

>>6404897

"I do." Gareth says seriously, studying the map with you. "If it were just you and Blitz, you'd be fine, but between all of us, Martha's Rapidash and Blitz aren't going to be able to carry all our stuff and Holly's going to need a break at some point." He adds, all of which are fair points. "And that's not mentioning we don't know how well Daisy is going to handle the hike. Rhyhorn are ideal for this sort of long range hike. They don't need much water, they're happy to browse on scrub grass and they can walk all day. They might not be fast, but they've got stamina."

"Perfect for this then, given it's going to be a bit of a mission." You agree. "How much a day is it to rent a Rhyhorn, then?"

"They do it by bond." Gareth replies. "A couple of grand and they keep twenty percent when you reach your destination."

That's actually pretty damn reasonable.

"Yeah, I'm not seeing a downside to this idea." You admit reflectively.

When Holly rejoins you, having purchased some admittedly very nice soap as well as some laundry powder, you get directions from the nurse and head out to the edge of town to make the arrangements.

Fortunately, it seems like Team Green were more focused on their Legendary hunt than sabotaging the trainers looking to take on Route 5, because the rental place looks fine and when Gareth mentions them, the owner just says he'd not seen hide nor hair of them.

It's a two grand bond, which you all put in for, Holly putting up half of it while you and Gareth debate shares or if you should wait for Martha.

The deposit made, you let the clerk know you'll be back to get your new companion later and head back to the pokemon center to wait for Martha and Daisy.

They shouldn't be too long, but you do have some time to get some last-minute preparation done.

>Rearrange your team for the journey.
>Call home and leave some instructions for taking care of your team.
>See if you can't find out anything about Schafer, the Halfway City Gym Leader.
>Talk with Holly\Gareth.
>Study up what pokemon can be found on Route 5.
>Other

>Study up what pokemon can be found on Route 5.
>Prepare for some EPIC LATIAS SPEEDING on the remote road

Also regarding team

>Present Team:
Syurm (Leavvany)
Ayumi (Dratini)
Fluffy (Eevee) (Everstone)
Volta (Luxray)
Sage (Braixen) (Everstone)
Blitz (Growlithe)
>Benched
Kay O-o
Rusty
Queenie
Coolie
Piker
Nika
Euphrates
Wilt

I'll vote to
>Switch Volta to Wilt
We have to bound to the new guy.
We need syurm and Blitz for travel/utility.
>Switch Sage to Nika
Sage is redundant with Blitz. Switch her to Nika, our gal need attention so young.
Kay O-o is still in recovery, let's keep him there.
There might be a point to shuffle Ayumi to Euphrate or Piker, bringing a water type in a desert road doesn't seem like the worst of ideas.

>>6404912
>Call home and leave some instructions for taking care of your team.
>Study up what pokemon can be found on Route 5.
>Prepare for some EPIC LATIAS SPEEDING on the remote road
>>6404937
+1

>>6405818
so what are we shuffling ayumi to?

>>6405850
Piker

File: Spoiler Image (12 KB, 190x265)

12 KB JPG

>>6404932
>>6404937
>>6405818
>>6405854

And more than getting info on Schafer or even studying up on Route 5 in detail there's one thing that you really must do before you leave and that's call home.

You head to the PC and it's not long before your mother picks up.

++"Alex, we saw on the news you've been busy."++ She says. ++"Trying to make a good impression on your godfather, are you?"++ She asks.

"More giving Jacky a hand, but hopefully he approves." You reply sheepishly. "That's not why I'm calling though - we're about to head down Route 5." You say. "And I'd like to make some changes to my team. Can I have that Haunter I caught, Nika and Piker?" You ask.

Your mother sobers.

++"You can, but be careful with that Haunter."++ She advises. ++"The rest of your team haven't been going truant on you because they respect you, but that Haunter probably won't."++

"I'll be careful." You assure, before sending Sage, Ayumi and Volta over to make way for the pokemon you requested.

In addition to the changes to your team, you leave some instructions for the care of your team - Keeping up the silver and iron supplements for Rusty, ensuring that Sage's coat is brushed out regularly and Ayumi's hide is oiled and that fresh water is kept up to the pond for her and Euphrates and that Kay O-o doesn't over-exert himself with the physical therapy you're sure your mother will insist on putting him through over the next week.

Queenie and Coolie, you're not overly concerned about. They're both fairly easy-going and can keep one another company, which just leaves Volta, whom outside of needing grooming occasionally, shouldn't present any problems. Especially not with Blitz with you. There might theoretically be some friction with Rascal, but you doubt it. They might both have a stubborn streak and strong personalities, but you've not seen any evidence that they don't get along.

++"Well, that's it then."++ Your mother says once she's sent the pokemon you requested through. ++"If you do get in trouble, don't try and press on anyway. Route 5 isn't easy and this time of year, you never know what the weather is going to do there, especially since Thundurus and Tornadus tend to act up this time of year."

You grimace as you recall yesterday's encounter with the Bolt Strike pokemon.

"I'll be careful." You assure. "We're well stocked and it's not just me, but I promise I won't go taking any stupid risks." You assure.

++"Alright. Take care and have fun. And don't forget to call when you reach the roadhouse."++ She adds.

"I won't." You assure, giving her a last wave before you end the call and head back to join the others.

(Part 1)

File: Rhyhorn_Rental.jpg (13 KB, 339x149)

13 KB JPG

>>6406362

Martha and Daisy have returned, Daisy now sporting some more practical clothes and having ditched the black block and bandanna, letting her long green hair fall down her back.

"All set?" Martha asks.

"Yeah, all set." You confirm. "Just had to make some last-minute switches. Let's go get our Rhyhorn."

As promised, there's a Rhyhorn in tack waiting and once you've stowed your bags on his back, you're off.

To your surprise, despite the fact his pace is pedestrian by the standards of a pokemon battle, he doesn't slow you down in the least and as first one hour, then another goes by inexorably, he doesn't slow down and you're left appreciating once again that there's a lot more to pokemon than just battling.

You wonder how Mike's getting on and if he's reached Halfway City yet, or at the least the roadhouse. It's not unheard of for trainers who generally go their own way and journey solo to join groups along the Cardinal routes at the roadhouses, for simple safety if nothing else.

It's getting on towards mid day now and you're keenly aware that you've still got a lot of ground to cover today before you reach a good campsite.

With that being said though, your prior reading on Route 5 was pretty brief. And you're still not sure what pokemon live on this route.

You've passed a couple of groups coming the other way as well, so you don't lack for options to fill the time as you walk.

>Try and squeeze in a battle (Roll)
>Study up on Route 5.
>See what pokemon live on Route 5.
>Talk with someone.
>Fly with Latias and scout the best place to take a break and make camp.
>Let one of your pokemon out and get some training in as you go.
>Other

Party:
Syurm (Leavvany)
Piker (Feebas)
Fluffy (Eevee) (Everstone)
Wilt (Haunter)
Nika (Riolu)
Blitz (Arcanine)

Companion slot: Latias

>>6406365

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f_X_rxKYiW0&list=RDf_X_rxKYiW0&start_radio=1

Also - regardless of what you vote for, give me a roll.

This is a weather check.

Rolled 82 (1d100)

>>6406365
>>Study up on Route 5.
>>See what pokemon live on Route 5.

>>6406365
>Study up on Route 5.
>Let Blitz out and get some training in as you go.

Rolled 77 (1d100)

>>6406546
Forgot

Need one more roll. I will accept a duplicate IP.

Rolled 82 (1d100)

>>6407439

>>6406376
>>6406548
>>6407456

Considering the hike ahead of you, you decide that your first order of business should be to study up on what Route 5 has in store for you, both in terms of the pokemon that can be found along its length and the potential hazards and complications you can expect.

The summary you read a week or so back said that the route grows steadily more arid as you head towards Halfway City and a quick search for pictures bears this out, as well as looking around.

It's relatively green grassland here near Redmont, but the further towards Halfway City you get, the drier it gets and the black soil gives way to red, iron rich sand.

This is a major part of the reason why Route 5, for the entirety of its length, is home to Aron with the sand providing a steady diet of iron for them and giving them a comparatively sedate nursery to grow in, with more powerful Lairon and Aggron dwelling deeper out into the desert.

The full list of pokemon that can be found along Route 5 is lengthy, with some pokemon only being found along the western half of the route and others peculiar to the eastern.

Common to both are Aron, Mudsbray, Rhyhorn, Ponyta, Taillow, Murkrow, Nidoran, Sandshrew, Maractus, Rockruff, Numel, Machop, Skorupi and Trapinch.

On the eastern end, Vulpix and Growlithe are often seen, along with Helioptile, Electrike and Mienfoo along with Oddish, Hoppip, Bellsprout and various bug and poison types.

Towards the western end, this changes to Skarmory, Larvitar, Larvesta, Fletchling, Bronzor and Togedemaru, along with Geodude, Nacli, Roggenrola, Silicobra and Dwebble.

Quite the variety, to say nothing of the ubiquitous Kangaskhan and Ekans, which if online memes were to be believe, you should've been mobbed by like Zubat the moment you left home.

(Part 1)

File: Scrubland.jpg (272 KB, 1024x768)

272 KB JPG

>>6407616

Insofar as hazards go, heat and lack of water are two big ones. Even on the Redmont end of Route 5, where it's greener, that's got more to do with the water table than it does any more accessible water source.

What rivers and creeks they are tend to be dry most of the time, only filling during the unpredictable rain events that can sweep through. Thundurus is also frequently to be found lurking along the route, stirring up violent thunderstorms, although these also occur naturally thanks to the cooler ocean air blowing into the interior and running into the warmer air masses that are common there.

You make a mental note not to camp on any low ground near the rivers as well. Apparently, when it does rain, it's not uncommon for the rivers to burst their banks and for the water to rise significantly, often topping the banks by two meters or so.

To make matters worse, during those sorts of flooding events, Sharpedo and Feraligator are common sights inland, even this far inland and it's not unheard of for them to be found lurking in billabongs leftover during dry stretches.

After the first three days along Route 5 and then on to the last stretch, the route also becomes much rougher as it cuts through a series of escarpments - remnants of an ancient mountain range long since eroded down to gravel and comparatively small hills. Fossils are often found among the rocks and as a result, paleontological expeditions are often to be found digging in the region. A fact Martha confirms when you ask, citing having gone with Jean on one a couple of years ago.

(Part 2)

File: Scrubland2.jpg (11 KB, 376x134)

11 KB JPG

>>6407630

Mount Aspiration is actually a remnant of this ancient range and the tallest of the modern peaks that remain, most of the others having been worn down into a series of ridges that break the middle of Route 5 into a series of irregular, interconnected valleys and making the trails to Mount Aspiration and Lake Credo comparatively easy hikes, though the mountain itself is notorious for loose scree along the paths headed up to the summit and intermittent cold-snaps that are often attributed to the presence of a Legendary pokemon of some sort.

Lake Credo by contrast is something of a green oasis, but considering the abortive attempt at the Credo track Martha and her friends made, you're not keen on paying it a visit right now. Not with an angry flock of flightless bird pokemon on the prowl.

Origin Cave meanwhile, is situated a day or so after the roadhouse that marks the three-day point along the trail and is actually just an hour or two's hike past a fairly well-equipped camp ground.

Given the flooding risks, you're somewhat apprehensive about this prospect until some further research reveals that the entrance to the cave is situated up near the top of one of the ridge lines and has famously never flooded.

A reputation you're somewhat dubious of, since it sounds like unsubstantiated folklore to you, but you get the feeling that even if it does flood, Gareth is going to wait for the cave to drain so he can visit the shrine.

(Part 3)

File: Dust Storm.jpg (86 KB, 840x560)

86 KB JPG

>>6407631

You blink and roll your neck, then check the time.

You've been reading for a while. You left mid-morning and it's getting close on to lunch now. You release Blitz so he can get some exercises, fully intent on getting some training in with him while you walk."

"Uh-oh."

Martha's exclamation, as much as her suddenly grim expression, are enough to tie a knot in your gut and dash any plans for training.

"What is it?" Daisy asks.

"There's a dust storm coming." She says briefly and you're suddenly confronted with the singularly uncomfortable realisation that this is a new problem in your book and you don't have any good answers on how to deal with this.

"How long do we have before it hits?" You ask.

"We've got a few hours yet, but I'd suggest we start looking for someplace sheltered to set up camp and hunker down until the storm passes. You don't fuck with sandstorms." Martha says seriously.

"This is a new one on me, so I'll take your word for it." You assure. "Know anywhere nearby we could hunker down?"

"There's a pretty sheltered spot up ahead." Martha confirms. "Still an hour or two, but we can make it and get set up if we hurry."

"Sounds like a plan." You agree.

Your pace is somewhat limited by Rhyhorn, but given Latias and Latios, not to mention Blitz and Martha's Rapidash, you could potentially have a couple of people go ahead to start setting up camp.

Simultaneously, sticking together might be safer, because that way nobody gets caught without supplies.

>Stick together.
>Send a party ahead to prep the camp.
>Other

>Double time it.
>Pick up the pace, but don't rush.
>Other

>>6407616
Fuck, Ironsand would have been perfect feed for our boy.
We can still get him in Halfway City for feist time.

We catchin a Larvitar? Or Thundurus attempt round 2 (even if I'd prefor the GOAT Landorian)

Also we need some Raindance/sunny day for travel purposes at some point.
>Send a party ahead to prep the camp.
Holly and us?

>>6407644
>Send a party ahead to prep the camp.
>>6407655
Round 2 electric boogaloo.
Yep, holly and us

>>6407655
>>6408016

Okay, can I get another roll please? This one won't really matter unless it's a crit either way.

Rolled 95 (1d100)

>>6408064

File: Latias.jpg (10 KB, 306x165)

10 KB JPG

>>6407655
>>6408016
>>6408103

"That being said, I think we can go one better." You add after a beat. "You send me the site and Holly and I can get there and start setting up camp."

"That's a bit of a risk, isn't it?" Martha asks.

"Sure, but it'll take the pressure off to get things set up and by the time you, Gareth and Daisy catch us up, you'll need a break regardless." You reply. "Holly and I can handle this." You add seriously.

"I'm not disputing that, but..." Martha begins, then shakes her head. "Never mind. With a sandstorm warning in place, I doubt you're liable to run into anyone anyway. Everyone's liable to be prepping for the storm where they are and this camp is a little off the beaten path." She adds, before sending you the directions.

"Um, why are you so confident you can get to this camp so much faster than us?" Daisy asks.

"You're about to find out." Martha replies. "Don't go spreading it around." She adds.

Warning delivered, you and Holly release Latias and Latios respectively, before climbing onto their backs once you've given them scritches.

You feel an inquiring thought as you double check the directions Martha gave you, before suddenly, you're moving, accelerating fast, before you're forced to tuck your head against Latias's neck as the wind whips past you.

You'd read that Latias under the influence of Mega evolution have been known to hit Mach 4. Right now, you believe it, though Latias isn't going nearly that fast.

Still, you keep one eye on your pokedex and watch the distance on your map app to the camp Martha identified drop rapidly, before only half an hour or so later, Latias slows before coming to a stop at the camp site.

It's about as good as you could ask for, what with it being set back from the road and recessed a little into the top of a hill, with a retaining wall creating a hip-high barrier to the wind around the western edge of the site, providing good shelter for the campfire and promising a similar level of shelter from the oncoming storm as the wind has definitely picked up from that direction.

There's a open-walled pavilion with a concrete picnic table set to one side next to the retaining wall, which while not totally ideal is by no means a deal breaker, considering you've got Syurm with you. There's no tap, so no running water, but you have water pokemon and bought bottled water as well, so that's also not an issue. There's also a shed to one side which you presume is for a long drop, so that'll save you some time having to dig that and the retaining wall only coming up to your waist isn't going to be an issue either, with Syurm's help. The site's level as well, so no need to try and level it with Bulldoze.

No, it's just about perfect.

The only thing that's stopped you and Holly from clambering off your respective charges, is the fact that there's already a small group here setting up camp.

(Part 1)

File: latias-latios-and-kyogre-(...).jpg (35 KB, 500x281)

35 KB JPG

>>6408429

File: Spoiler Image (222 KB, 1000x1013)

222 KB PNG

>>6408429

There're three people, it looks like - all of them staring at you.

Most notably is a young man whom you'd say is about your age, if he didn't dwarf you utterly and have the physique of a bodybuilder. He has long, pleated blond hair and barely fits in the ranger uniform he's wearing, which has the addition of a purple bandana tied around his left bicep, an affectation he shares with his companions.

One of them is a dark-haired young man, still fit but nowhere near as muscled as his companion and seems to have taken your sudden appearance the calmest.

The other occupant of the camp is a red headed young woman who's watching you suspiciously, before she blinks and refocuses on Holly with a look of surprise before she sighs and shakes her head.

"Okay, they're cool. Just looking to wait out that sandstorm, same as us." The red head says with a pronounced Galarian accent.

They're okay. A voice says in your head, which you identify as Latias, which has you clambering off her back before she goes invisible, the same as Latios as Holly follows suit.

"No need to be shy." The largest of the trio says. "We don't bite and there's space enough for all of us." He adds, his voice deep and booming and possessed of a broad northern-sounding accent to your ear. From the Norethr region, if you were to guess.

"Might be a tight fit soon." You reply. "We're part of a group of five, we came ahead to get a start on making camp." You explain, indicating the tents you've set aside for the moment.

Looking around, they've already set their tents - two large tents, not unlike yours, one of which you presume is just for the big guy, and gotten a fire going, as well as rigged up a tarp to act as a wind break and done a good job of it at that, but you have a feeling it'll be a tight fit, unless you put in some over time with Syurm.

"I'm sure we'll manage." The huge blond replies easily. "I'm Sven, what're your names?"

"Alex." You reply. "Nice to meet you."

"Holly." Holly says, nodding apparently either ignoring Nesta's stare or having a private telepathic conversation with her, given the red head's reaction to your appearance.

"I'm James." The dark haired young man says, then smiles. "And that's Shika." He adds, indicating just to your right.

You turn and don't see anything, before you look down and find yourself face to face with a girl who smiles impishly as you jump at her sudden materialisation.

Was she always standing there?

(Part 2)

>>6408448

"Nice reaction time." She says lightly, conspicuous among her peers by the fact that, instead of a camo-pattern ranger's uniform, she's wearing what you vaguely recognise as a Fuchsia clan uniform.

You're not too clear on the context of the hazy memories of the clan and Fuchsia city, but after what Meowth told you, if you had to guess you'd say that your parents must know the Fuchsia City Gym Leader, Janine, and trusted her enough to look after you while they were being the bane of Palm Corps' existence.

"Thanks." You reply, wryly. "Nice to meet you, I guess."

Shika chuckles as she goes to the fire and deposits an arm load of dead wood before heading back off down the hill, presumably to gather fire wood.

"If you're here to prepare for your own group, then don't let us stop you." Sven says.

You nod, already unpacking your tent, keeping one eye on Holly as she sets her tent, nodding to yourself as you notice that she's not having any trouble.

Sven and James don't offer to help. Not, it seems, because they're being rude, but rather because they seem to realise you don't need it.

In short order, you've got your tents set up, yours closest to the western edge of the camp to take the brunt of the wind and shelter Holly's smaller one, forming a vague crescent around the western edge of the camp opposite Sven's group's tents.

Checking your watch, you've still got the better part of two hours before Martha and the others catch up. Just like you said, giving you plenty of time to prepare.

This in mind, you release Syurm, which earns a curious look from Sven as he looks up from where he was intently studying his pokedex.

"You planning on doing some training?" He asks.

You shake your head.

"Nope. You guys have done a pretty good job of preparing for the storm, but there's more Syurm can do."

>Cut some branches for frames with Syurm and extend the wind break Sven's group have rigged.
>Let Syurm work her magic.
>See if Sven's group are down to prep the camp more.
>Other (Highly encouraged)

>>6408458
>>Let Syurm work her magic.

>>6408458
>Let Syurm work her magic.

>>6408476
>>6408486

Okay, rolls please.

Rolled 87 (1d100)

Rolled 47 (1d100)

>>6408957

Rolled 14 (1d100)

>>6408957
last roll

File: Leavanny_Card.png (49 KB, 245x342)

49 KB PNG

>>6409106
>>6409768
>>6409892

Sven makes a 'go ahead' motion and sets his pokedex aside.

Apparently, he's curious to see what the two of you are about to do.

Syurm looks to you curiously, before you bring up a video of a sandstorm for her edification. Off to the side, you're pleased to note that Holly is busy setting up Gareth's tent with Martha's set beside it.

"That's what's coming." You tell her and she tilts her head, clearly thinking, before indicating towards the brush and chittering animatedly, leading to Latias appearing by your shoulder, looking to Syurm curiously.

Syurm chitters some more, indicating the tarp that Sven and his group have rigged as a wind break and then the scrub again.

Latias nods, before nudging you and leading the way towards a dead wattle and, at Syurm's nod, cutting it down, before cutting it to size, leaving a sizeable collection of deadwood behind as she makes several poles from the wood, which Syurm gestures to you to position, drawing a square with a diagonal for emphasis with four lines next to it.

Evidently, she wants to be thorough.

You lay out two frames before you run out of poles, before you're interrupted by Sven depositing another stack of timber, accompanied by a Feraligator before he shrugs.

"Many hands and all that." He says by way of explanation as Syurm sticks the frames with sticky web, weaving in the detritus from Latias's rough carpentry and filling gaps with String shot, filling out the frame in a startlingly short span of time before moving onto the next one as you and Sven set out the other two frames.

Half way through the second one, she stops and goes to several points along and around the lip of the retaining wall and marks out points, before having Latias levitate a hefty looking stick for emphasis.

Sven chuckles.

"I thought Leavanny were supposed to be nature's tailors. And yet, here's one that's a structural engineer." He says.

"Wouldn't have it any other way, honestly." You reply modestly.

"You sure that those'll be enough?" James asks, coming over to see what you're doing as you dig experimentally to see how far back the wall goes.

"Yeah, I'm sure. This isn't the first time Syurm's done this." You reply as Sven returns from his tent with an e-tool and starts digging.

"We're going to need about sixteen good, solid branches for this." He says to James, who nods and hops off the ledge and collecting Nesta before they head off out of the opposite side of the camp.

Meanwhile, you drag the first frame into position as Syurm looks at the tarp critically, before measuring the dimensions of the shelter and chittering to Latias.

Evidently, the tarp isn't up to her standards.

(Part 1)

>>6410156

It's a half hour or so before you're all finished positioning and lashing frames in place and James has packed away his tarp, still eyeing Syurm's handiwork critically.

It's not *quite* the same as what she built back on Route 2, but then she only needed to make a wind break in one direction this time and there're echoes of her last pavilion here, in that it looks a little like that one cut in half.

Presently, she's going around weaving a 'rim' around the whole of the structure, webbing sticks around the leeward edge of the frames and even the wall of the shelter, filling the gaps with silk, turning the work of the past forty five minutes or so into one continuous surface, rather than a series of panels lashed together from and filled in with silk.

"Okay, I take it back. That's some fine work." James admits.

"It really is." You agree, patting Syurm's shoulder and fishing out a Leppa berry for her as she slumps with a heavy sigh.

She takes it gratefully and starts nibbling at it with evident relish.

"So, how far away would you say your friends are?" Nesta asks curiously in the ensuing appreciative silence as you all admire Syurm's handiwork.

"Probably another hour." You guess.

"Hm. In the meantime, you or your friend up for a battle?" She asks.

>Sure. (Who, number of pokemon, bet)
>Holly?
>More interested in lunch right now.
>Maybe later - where're you guys from?
>Other

>>6410157
>>Sure. (Who, number of pokemon, bet)
Weakest of them to train our new pokémons. Quarter of our card. 3 Pokemon, Wilt, Nika, Piker.

>>6410344
Sure +1