>>1908192
Hey Gobble! don't forget to archive the last thread

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>>1908201
[Good call!]

Man, I wish it wasn't so late in Europe. Have a good thread, guys!

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“I have two ideas,” you begin. “The beauty branch needs to get behind a goal. Something everyone else values.”

“What are you proposing?”

“A new fashion trend. Or an old one. Whatever it is, it has to be something everyone else wants. And the best way to do that is a fashion show.”

“A fashion show? Like, a Kwa Pala? A plant ceremony?”

You nod. “Sort of. I don’t want to suggest anything that isn’t appropriate.” You look him in the eyes to be sure you’re not saying or doing something offensive by overstepping your bounds. You intuit that he’s more interested in understanding you than worrying about propriety. “But that’s the general idea. I’d be happy to help, if that would be okay.” Happy being an understatement.

“Something could be arranged. I see how that would give them a lot of prestige, if it were to be successful.” His voice leans heavily on that last part. You don’t think he’s trying to be condescending. Just cautious. “What about the conservationist branch?”

“That’s trickier.” You admit. The twinkle in his eyes shows an appreciation and understanding for your honesty and puts you at ease. You get why Keira looks up to him. “I think they need some appreciation. They must do a lot and don’t get any recognition for it.”

“Hmm.” Abigail rests her chin on her hand. “Wonder what that’s like.”

I don’t know about one big thing, but I think if there were celebrations of their milestones, like a ceremony for a year of good protection of a fragile area and a big show of recognition for people that made efforts, that could help.”

“The conservation branch doesn’t like to be showy. They’re honestly very reserved, quiet people for the most part.”

You think a bit about Hana. She’s like that a lot of the time, but she seems to appreciate when others reach out to her.


Abigail pipes up. “It doesn’t have to be flashy. But even if they aren’t as thrilled about it as people that that always want to be the center of attention, it’d still be a nice thing to show that they’re appreciated, and more importantly, show everyone else why they’re important and deserve more respect. And with respect, comes power. You do want to balance that, right?”

He nods to her point, but his face shows a little annoyance at the tone of her last sentence. Even you have to admit her tone can provoke sometimes. Just a little. Just the way she phrases little things. But you still appreciate her helping you convince him.

(continued)

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>>1908235
“Why not combine them?” Abigail suddenly shoots up. “One big party. A fashion show for the beauty branch, and a ceremony full of medals or whatever for the conservationists?”

“Not a good idea.” He says. “It’d just make a dynamic where it appears the agriculture branch is equal to both of them combined.”

“Nah. No way. It’d show how unified they are.” Abigail moves to slap him on the back in order to cozy up. She stops herself just short, remembering he’s a High Priest.

“It was your idea.” He turns to you. “What’s your opinion?”

>One big mega event would be something nobody could miss
>Two smaller events would let you focus on each branch better
>Something else

>>1908249
Make it a multi day event. One for each branch and keep the guidelines so they look equal.

>>1908249
>Two smaller events would let you focus on each branch better
2>1

>>1908249
>Two smaller events would let you focus on each branch better

>>1908249
>Two smaller events would let you focus on each branch better
A fashion show is a bigger production than an awards ceremony. The conservation part would look tacked on. Plus it creates the expectation that events would continue to be paired up in the future, which would make more spontaneous events for either party awkward.

>>1908249
>Two smaller events would let you focus on each branch better

Multiday event! no one shows up one day! And then shows up on the other! Now we know which branch should be forgotten and ignored.

>>1908249
>Something else
3 day event, farmers market or something for the agriculture branch.

>>1908263
i like this idea

>>1908249
Changing to multi day event

>>1908249
Multi day seems like a good idea

>>1908287
And if it just happens to be understaffed because we asked slackers to run it, well, oopsy daisy.

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“I think we can compromise here.”

“What do you mean?” He pats Belladonna on the head. She seems enamoured by this tall, strong man.

“A multi-day event. Each gets a day dedicated to them, but since it’s tied together, we can still make sure people come for both.”

“It would be bad if there was a disparity between the audiences.” He rubs his chin. “But that leads to more questions. Who goes first?”

“And now that I think about it, you did have a good point before.” Abigail says to High Preist Hoa. “It would feel weird the two of them are competing with the one agriculture branch. Maybe we should invite them too.”

“Would not not defeat the point, if all three are elevated?”

“Not if the agriculture branch has crappy event.” Abigail says with an evil sparkle in her eye.

He sits in contemplation. “A public humbling could be good. I can't say no after proposing what I did. But Herb, did you not say you wanted to avoid bringing anyone down?”

>Forget the agriculture branch. Just have the multiday event for the other two
>Events for all three, but I won’t help the agriculture branch. We just have to be that much better on our own
>Events for all three, and I’ll help them all. Maybe things will work out anyway
>Events for all three, and we’ll make sure the agriculture one fails
>Something else

>>1908380
>Events for all three, but I won’t help the agriculture branch. We just have to be that much better on our own

>the agricultural event doesn't have to be a dumpster fire. Just boring.

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>>1908392
>pic of the agricultural event

>>1908380
>Events for all three, but I won’t help the agriculture branch. We just have to be that much better on our own

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>>1908398
And besides, I think there's an important difference between sabotaging something somebody already has and giving them a bad gift.

>Events for all three, and I’ll help them all. Maybe things will work out anyway

We need to reunify the three. If it becomes a pissing contest, it'll just result in more animosity.

Have focus of the events be the Beauty and Conservation but let the Agricultural run concession. Show of the 'fruits of their labor' so to speak

>>1908380
>>Events for all three, and I’ll help them all. Maybe things will work out anyway
We should at least try to help the agricultural branch. As an olive branch towards reconciliation, if nothing else.
But it's not exactly Herb's area of expertise. There's not much we can really do for them.

>>1908380
>>Events for all three, but I won’t help the agriculture branch. We just have to be that much better on our own
We have the excuse of knowing nothing about agriculture, so that;s the reason we can say as to why we won't help them, although we should probably try to get the others on board otherwise it would be kinda out of character for herb to not tell them

Wooo, hey PokeFriends! I just showed up. I'm excited for some Pokemon Island Adventures!

>>1908477
Herb and Kiera can help the beauty event. Laki is good with history and might know, or be able to research, conservation efforts which have gone unrecognized. Hana and Abigail could "help" the agricultural event.

>>1908503
And by that I don't mean sabotage, I mean just not know much about agriculture and fill staff spots without contributing much special.

>>1908518
Or be spies.

Gobble, did you see that there's a pokemon professor quest now? It's real neato.

>>1908503
no i meant in the not helping agriculture department
>>1908518
not really sabotage when you don't do anything to or with the people, it's called just not helping

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“Let’s have all three. But I don’t want to sabotage anyone.”

“I feel like we’re missing the bigger picture here.” He sighs a little in frustration. “But I’ll listen to your reasoning.”

“Well, it’s true. I don’t want to bring anybody down. But that’s not the only reason we should have all three. If we exclude anybody, that just makes whoever is left out upset. And the way it sounds now, the agriculture branch is walking over the other two.” You flash an apologetic look at Hoa in case that’s being rude to his branch. He nods in agreement. ”I still want to focus on the others, but I think having the agriculture branch handle food or otherwise get...I don’t know, invested in it’s success, then everyone is working together.”

“Herb. I admire your steadfastness to the moral high ground. I admit I compromise sometimes, or do things that I don’t feel clean about for what I believe is the greater good, like a gardener who removes some plants to allow others to grow strong.” His eyes drift in the direction of the lobby. “But I’d like to believe those actions are just failings to see a better path on my part, and that there are better ways. Please, succeed and prove that feeling right.” He puts a hand on your shoulder.

It’s feels extremely heavy, drenched in those words.

“You sure have a mancrush on old goldtop over here.” Abigail ruins the moment. “How come? What makes him so special?”

“Keira.” He says with a smile. “She doesn’t tolerate bad people. Her endorsement is enough. But enough about that. I’m making the poor boy bashful.”

You give a nervous smile, feeling like his comment drawing attention to it made it even worse.

“So what’s the plan?”

“I’ll talk to one branch’s leader, and you to the other.”

“And the agricultural branch?”

“I am still the agricultural leader, for now. I’ll delay letting them know, and wait until I’m petitioned to have us participate. Don’t worry, it will happen.” He laughs. “I never expected to need so many power plays in my roll. But running a branch and a temple is a complex thing. Herb, which branch did you want to ask?”

“Why can’t you ask both?” Abigail look suspicious.

“If I visit both leaders in a row, I’ll draw suspicion from my political rival. He’ll have more time to sabotage it before we’re ready.”

“Would he really do that?” You ask before you think.

“Yes. Which is why I don’t want Keira caught in the crossfire.” You're impressed he used that idiom correctly. He moves to the door. “Whoever you go to will give you a better rapport. Who will it be?”

>You’ll talk the beauty branch into joining
>You’ll talk the conservationist branch into joining
>Let me talk to both. I promise I won’t let anyone follow me
>Something else

>>1908586
>>You’ll talk the beauty branch into joining
This is where Herb shines. This is what we know. So this is who we talk to.

>>1908586
>>You’ll talk the beauty branch into joining

>>1908586
>You’ll talk the beauty branch into joining

>>1908586
It's an interesting choice. Herb got a shard from winning a fashion show, but also for going above and beyond on kek island. Either one would likely respect Herb. But Herb has a fiery passion for fashion.

>beauty.

>>1908586
>You’ll talk the beauty branch into joining

>>1908586
>You’ll talk the beauty branch into joining
Sell what we've got.

>>1908586
>Let me talk to both. I promise I won’t let anyone follow me

"dont mind me, just an ignorant mainlander looking for the bathroom, getting lost along the way. Oh hello leaders of factions"

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“I’ll talk to the beauty branch.” You say. “I have a passion for fashion.”

“I’m sure.” He gives you a funny look.

“What do you think he meant by that?” You pick up Dice, who has been gently gnawing on your leg. Boy, he’s gotten heavy. He climbs up your back and onto your shoulder, but has some trouble balancing.

“Yeah yeah. Drop the act. I’m not buying it.” She helps stabilize him.

“What act?”

“Wait, you’re serious, aren’t you?” She starts to giggle into her hand. “Oh this is great! Oh man. Can I tell Laki? I’m going to go tell Laki. This is going to be so- Wait! Can I use the camera on your pokedex?” She can’t stand still. Gobble blocks her way.

“Come on. Tell me!” You plead.

“The beauty branch is full of mostly girls who do nothing but worry about good, smelling good, and dressing good. They’ll have your male head spinning so fast you won’t know what hit you. I mean, naturally I could do just as well if I cared, but I’m not some man hungry island girl. I have standards.” She pauses. “Oh yeah. Are you going to let the others in on this or just ask them to chill out for awhile?”

“Why wouldn’t I let them in?”

She rolls her eyes and gives you an exasperated smile. “Because, goldie locks. You’re not supposed to involve Keira. If you start telling the others, the first thing they’re going to do is want to tell her. So you gotta make them promise not to say anything to her, either.” She leaps up on a raised garden bed stone and leans on your shoulder from the extra height, then gets close to your face. “‘Course, I can take the heat on this one and just tell her anyway. You’ll be in the clear and I’m already one of the mainlanders everyone hates so I won’t be any worse off.”

>Well, if you think that’s a good idea...
>No. Don’t tell her, and don’t get anyone else involved
>You’ll tell the others and ask them not to tell Keira
>Tell Keira and ask her to avoid getting involved. You’d be breaking your promise, though
>Something else

>>1908719
>>You’ll tell the others and ask them not to tell Keira
i really don't wanna break the promise, but at the same time if we don't tell anyone at all then we would be going behind everyone's backs, plus it would be a great help if they knew what was going on and we wouldn't have to lie to them,

>>1908719
>You’ll tell the others and ask them not to tell Keira

No secrets in the harem.

>>1908719
>but worry about good, smelling good, and dressing good.
There was suppose to be looking good at the beginning right?

>You’ll tell the others and ask them not to tell Keira

>>1908719
Also, it feels like there should have been some mention of the priest parting ways, after he was all suspicious but before Herb commented on it.

>>1908719
>>You’ll tell the others and ask them not to tell Keira

God, Abigail is great she's like Laki's snarky little sister

>>1908719
>You’ll tell the others and ask them not to tell Keira

>>1908719
>>You’ll tell the others and ask them not to tell Keira
I feel really bad about this, but... we did promise.
Maybe we can ask someone to distract Keira? Otherwise, with all her friends doing stuff and deliberately avoiding her... she's going to think she's done something wrong.

>>1908719
>No. Don’t tell her, and don’t get anyone else involved
While i dont like keeping secrets, we did give our word
>You’ll tell the others and ask them not to tell Keira

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>>1908748

>>1908779
That's a nice spooky booty.

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>>1908754

>>1908779
oh gobble, had you put in hex maniac we never would've had a waifu war

>>1908792
Isn't Kiera basically an alolah'd Hex Maniac?

>>1908797
nope

>>1908797
Not exactly

>>1908779
thanks for the butt!

>>1908792
To be honest, if Gobble put in a Hex Maniac character in now I'd instantly drop both our current waifu's. Hex Maniac is simply that much better than anything else possible.

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“I’ll tell the others, and ask them not to tell Keira.”

Gobble nods in approval of your plan. You’re not sure if he really understands or just senses there’s a debate and he needs to back you up. But whatever the case, the look in his eye touches you. He stops blocking the door, and you, Abigail, and your pokemon head out.

“Herb.” She puts an arm around your shoulder as you walk. Being the short girl that she is, it’s more like she hangs from you. “Do you know what a white lie is?”

“Yes.” You feel a little annoyed at her tone.

“I don’t think you do. Because you would have used one to that priest back there when you agreed not to say anything. Keira’s a nice girl, despite the handicap of being a priestess. She deserves the truth.”

“Hey. That’s not fair. You know I think she does too.”

“But you’re not going to tell her it. Your sense of honor or whatever is, to you, more valuable than her getting what she deserves.”

“I...” You struggle for an answer.

“Jeez, I’m just messing with your mind, Goldtop. If I can do this to you, the beauty girls are going to destroy you. And on that note, you’d better be in a compromising position by the time I’m back with Laki.” She gives you a shove.

You weren’t even paying attention to where you were going when you were walking with Abigail. Now you find yourself stumbling through a thick brush with a distinct smell. Even before you catch yourself and stumble a bit, you know it’s the beauty section.

Bella makes a noise behind you and some plants fall away. Her and the other pokemon manage to follow you in, even as the heavy brush seems to almost fill itself in.

“Was that cut?” You ask her. “Good job, but you should ask bef-”

Sharp leaves thud into the dirt by your feet.

“This isn’t a tourist area.” A voice says from somewhere in what seems like a maze of bushes, hedges, and trees. “You’d better have a good explanation, after Lilligant and I take your pride in battle!”


>A battle? Okay! I accept! Go (name a pokemon)
>Wait! Can’t we talk about this?
>What the heck! You could have hurt me!
>Run back out of the bushes
>Something else

>>1908925
>>Wait! Can’t we talk about this?

Wtf lady.

>>1908925
>A battle? Okay! I accept! Go (name a pokemon)
Bella

>>1908925
>>What the heck! You could have hurt me!

>A battle? Okay! I accept! Go (Belladonna)

>>1908925
>>What the heck! You could have hurt me!
point out that it could have been really bad and they could have just commited man slaughter,

>>1908925
CAN'T A MAN STUMBLE THROUGH THE FOREST IN PEACE THESE DAYS?!

>>1908925
>>A battle? Okay! I accept! Go Bella

>A battle? Okay! I accept! Go Bella

Nothing will stand in our way of meeting with the Beauty priest.

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“Hey! What the heck! You could have hurt me!”

“That is the point of a warning shot. I could have, but didn’t.”

“No. I mean, you-”

“You’re stalling.” Another round of leaves hit the ground. “Do you accept or not?”

“I...okay! I accept! Belladonna, let’s go!”

Belladonna leaps into action in front of you. Mace, who was very concerned about your safety, relaxes a bit on seeing that this is a pokemon battle. Gobble picks a flower and offers it to Sorbet. She breaths ice on it, wilting it instantly. Dice surprises her with a soft chomp on the tail that sends her jumping into the air with surprise. Bella snickers before turning her attention back to the fight at hand.

You both stare at the big, green wall. It ranges from ten to 30 feet away, and is covered by vines, trees, bushes, and other plant obstructions. You grit your teeth and-

“That pokemon is so cute!” A voice says from the wall.

“Shh! They can hear you!”

“But it is!”

“Then you two can tend to it when I knock it out!”

>Sunny Day, now’s a good chance to prepare
>Cut as many bushes as you can to take away their pokemon’s cover
>Stun Spore the direction you think the attacks came from
>Use Growth to pump up while they’re distracted
>Should she know Sweet Scent by soon? Try that
>Something else

>>1909076
>Use Growth to pump up while they’re distracted

Silly herb, stun spore doesn't affect grass types, and sunny day will probably help them too. In fact, maybe they'll set up sun and our growth will get doubled.

Gobble, don't forget about that ooze Bella's holding.

>>1909076
>Should she know Sweet Scent by soon? Try that
Seems good, it should work since Bella is so damn cute!

>>1909085
>>1909087
So what were you guys thinking to follow up move going to be. Cause i was thinking Poison Sting or Jab and those are both Physical moves so i don't think Growth will be useful.

>>1909094
Growth boosts both atk and sp atk one stage.

Two stages under sun.

>>1909097
Oh i see. I guess i was just thinking about an older version of it or something. Thanks for the info.

>>1909076
>Use Growth to pump up while they’re distracted

>>1909076
>>Use Growth to pump up while they’re distracted


>>1909094
Was thinking Cut or maybe trying to have Bella infuse Poison into it to make a new move. She can heal some with the sludge.

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Rolled 60, 22 = 82 (2d100)

[Roll!]

Rolled 3 (1d100)

>>1909126

Rolled 72 (1d100)

>>1909126
Rollin

>>1909129
>>1909130
Nice!

Rolled 93 (1d100)

>>1909126

>>1909141
Well done, sir. Well done.

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“Bella! Use Growth!”

Bella springs into action. Her petals shine as she absorbs what light she can to become stronger. After a moment, she makes a few jabs to emphasize her strength and energy. She’s feeling good!

“I want one!”

“Then ask for an egg after! Stop distracting me! Quiver Dance!”

You squint your eyes to scan the bushes while that’s going on. You’re not sure, but you think you see where the pokemon was moving.

“Green and bloom, flower and doom. Tell me trainer, will you be my groom?”

“Not the time for poetry.”

“But Lady Kapua says it’s always the time for poetry.”

“Ugh. Lilligant! Quick, follow up with Sunny Day! They won’t be able to keep up after that!”

You glance up at the top of the greenhouse glass. Sunlight would be great for Bella, but if they want it, maybe you should try stopping it instead.

>Cover the glass ceiling with leaves
>Use Growth again right after they use Sunny Day
>Have Bella take cover in bushes of her own, and be ready to counter whatever comes next
>Poison Jab where you think the opponent is
>Try Toxic where you think the opponent is
>Something else

>>1909228
>Use Growth again right after they use Sunny Day

We should wax poetic right back at them.

>physical and special, I'll take both
>your tactics only fuel our GROWTH

>>1909228
>Try Toxic where you think the opponent is

Weak to grass and pretty darn hurting if it hits.

>>1909228
>Use Growth again right after they use Sunny Day
Sure, arms race it is then.

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>>1909228
>Use Growth again right after they use Sunny Day

Let the sacking of Highgarden begin

>>1909228
>>Use Growth again right after they use Sunny Day

>>1909243
ooo, i like that

>>1909228
>Use Growth again right after they use Sunny Day

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Rolled 62, 44 = 106 (2d100)

[Roll it!]

Rolled 75 (1d100)

>>1909268
I wonder if they'll be impressed if we tell them we beat pohoa in a fashion show.

Rolled 80 (1d100)

>>1909268
rocking and rollin

Rolled 68 (1d100)

>>1909268
Please no fuck up Fug.

>>1909244
Toxic affects every type besides poison and steel the same. Weakness doesn't matter

Man, between quiver dance and chlorophyll, this litigant is about to get really fast.

Good thing we take one quarter damage from grass.

>>1909243
This

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“Lilligant! Sunny Day!”

“All the way!” Another voice adds, to the disapprovement of the others, you think. It’s hard to make out the word sometimes, so you’re guessing based on the tones.

Well, you can sling a little poetry too! “Physical and special, I'll take both. Your tactics only fuel our GROWTH”

“What.”

“Huh?”

Bella glances at you, confused.

“Use Growth.” You whisper.

Her face lights up with the sudden realization and she jolts into action. Her petals and body begin to shine brighter than ever with her newly pumped up status. You wonder how strong she’s getting right now.

“Nice appeal!” One of the voices says.

“A poet? Hmm. You’ll appreciate this.” She clears her throat.
“Bumbling golden hair
Naively led pokemon
Teeter Dance, confuse!”

Lilligant, appears in a flash before Bella. She’s fast! Maybe you can sneak an attack in before she pulls her move off, or maybe you should have Bella play defensively for now.

>Poison Sting, even if it means looking at her
>Toxic, get it in there now
>Try Attract!
>Water Sport, in case they have a fire move trump card
>Look away and blindfire Pin Missiles (chance of failing one or both)
>Disregard it and and try to use Growth one more time
>Look away! (Easy)
>Something else

>>1909326
>>Poison Sting, even if it means looking at her

Come out and play
You're bell we'll ring
Bella give her a taste
of your poison sting

>>1909326
>try to cover the glass ceiling with leaves

It will shut off chlorophyll while our growths stay up, and Bella will have to look up and away to do it.

>>1909326
>>Poison Sting, even if it means looking at her

>>1909326
>>1909338
Support!

>>1909326
>Toxic, get it in there now

>>1909338
Supporting

>>1909326
>>1909338
I'll second

Our rhymes have a very Team Rocket feel to them, but I like it.

>>1909365
Dark Herb is James.

I hope we win so we can smoothly flip our hair and just generally be the most stylish guy.

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Rolled 33, 91 = 124 (2d100)

[Roll!]

>>1909374
That makes way too much sense.

Rolled 70 (1d100)

>>1909378

Rolled 24 (1d100)

>>1909378
rolling and rockin

Rolled 48 (1d100)

>>1909378
STAB

>>1909378
yeah i don't think we are beating this one guys, this is gonna hurt

Rolled 58 (1d100)

>>1909326
>Toxic, get it in there now

>>1909374
huh, you know you are probably right.

>>1909383
Oh no, she confused us ohhhh noooo.

We rolled high enough for confuse not to matter

>>1909383
Well, we're gonna take one quarter damage from lilligants grass moves, and our ooze will restore part of that, and I think our ooze healing should be boosted by Bella's unlocked potential, and lilligant isn't doing damage this turn, and we'll have a chance to snap out of confusion every turn, so we're not in the worst position.

Let's taunt her by saying something like
"As long as Bella's awake she'll keep fighting!"

That should goad her into using grass whistle or sweet scent+grass whistle.

But Bella can't be put to sleep under the sun because of leaf guard.

So she'd be wasting her time.

>>1909405
*sigh*

I'll get my rhyming dictionary

>>1909417
Thanks anon.

>>1909421
"That dance was clever,
Got our battle spirit igniting
But as long as Bella's awake
she'll keep on fighting!"

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“Come out and play
You're bell we'll ring
Bella give her a taste
of your Poison Sting!”

Bella is more prepared this time. Your last line came out just as Lilligant got into a better range for her Teeter Dance. Lilligant is so fast that she still has time to use it before Bella can attack. And it works, too! Oh no!

Lilligant, getting a little cocky, starts rushing by to get back under the leafy cover, but Bella shakes her head and gives her a good shot in in the back with Poison Sting. A smug look of satisfaction glues itself to her face.

“Lilligant! Can you still fight? Good, but be careful." The voice then calls to you. "Oh, intruder, you’re going to feel the wrath of...what? No, shh. No! I’m not going to...yes, he is, but...” She seems to be having some sort of debate. The others are keeping their voices low enough for you not to make out what they’re saying. "Okay, but you're helping."

Suddenly, three girls appear from the bushes. They’re dressed in loose fitting, very feminine robes. Even from here, you can see from their skin that they moisturize. A waft of soft, pleasant, girly smells gently lulls your senses, just a little. For some reason you really wish Hana and Laki were within arm’s reach right now.

[That’s all for today, folks! Sorry, I have to work in the morning. The next thread will be Saturday. There’s an off chance I might have time off next week for more threads, but that’s not a guarantee. We will have more time to run during the week regardless, though.]

>>1909434
Those devious bastards, smelling good!

Goodnight Gobble!

Thanks for running Gobble! I like the idea of more random battles. Lord knows you handle the dialogue better than Nintendo.

>>1909434
Thanks for running Gobble! Good night!

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>>1909438
>>1909448
>>1909451
[Thanks! I love the write-ins and other things. You guys rock!]

>>1909434
Well shit lol Now thats just fighting dirty

But on the plus side it gives me time to work on food related rhymes

Thanks for running again Gobble
This battle was fun
But they best watch out for Dark Herb
He's looking forward to glazing their sweet buns

>>1909434
thanks for running gobble

>>1909455
Gobble please, I've been asking for threads, what is the name of Hana and Laki's relationship? Step-girlfriends?

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>>1909460
It's a good thing Herb brought his own oxygen supply.

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>>1909480
[I haven't come up with anything good. Sorry. I keeping forgetting to reply because I think I'll have a good term for it and then I just blank out.]

>>1909487
Kiera's answer: They're Sal-mates. It comes from Salandit. Isn't it funny how it sounds like soul mates? I wonder what mainlander pokemon starts with "soul"?

Hana's answer: I guess we're not really sister-wives. I guess it's like Ms. Kat and Robin and Clair. That makes us girlfriends... I think?

Laki's answer: Hana's my side chick. That's the mainlanders term, right Soft Hands?

Herb's answer: Well they're definitely friends now at least, and that makes me happy.

Valerie/Polu's answer: Herb has a harem?!

Jane's answer: They're deviants. Or brainwashed. Or both.

>>1909434
your*

>>1909486
OOh, you know what else would be a good counter to their trick?

Biting into one of those peppers we got from the fire temple. I'm sure that'd overpower their feminine charms, and fire us up!

>>1909434
But seriously, we should ask for some of that fabric/perfume to dress up our girls later.

Can you imagine Hana and Laki on an aphrodisiac? Now that's a wild first time.

>>1909567
>Can you imagine Herb on an aphrodisiac.
>Literally intoxicating herb's used on Herb.

>>1909572
I like to imagine he'd get pretty dominant.
Tell them what the safe word will be and then just go to town.
I bet Hana'd be into it if he bit her shoulder a little.

Etc.

>>1909434
thanks for running Gobble, when can we expect next thread?

>>1909434
If the smell is dangerous I would suggest masking it with some spice we have in our bag the next time we run.

>>1909430
I just want to highlight this excellent taunt, which will hopefully goad her into wasting time using grass whistle while we have leaf guard up.

Plus, maybe Bella will learn grass whistle by seeing it. It did used to be Roselia's signature move, and sweet scent boosts it to 91% accuracy. If we paired her with Mace, it would be over 100% accurate under gravity+sweet scent.

Archived Grass Pass for you gobble

>>1914112
Moves with 100% accuracy normally would have 270% accuracy. That's gotta confer some benefit, right? Larger crit range? More complicated maneuvers are less unlikely?

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>>1917187
[Thank you! I meant to do it after I was reminded and dropped the ball.]

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Beauty is in the Eye of The Beer Holder

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

General rules:

There is a 10 minute voting period after each post. Non-contradictory votes will be combined as best as possible.

Write-ins for all votes are always welcome and encouraged. They may not all make it into the post or be altered to fit in, but I'll do my best to at least try to address the spirit of the write-in.

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

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

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

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

Pokemon:
Gobble (Munchlax)
Mace (Roggenrola)
Belladonna (Roselia)
Dice (Croconaw)
Sorbet (Vulpix)

Location: Tabo Island, the Grass Temple. Specifically, the beauty branches wing

It's time

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You watch as three girls come out of the heavily plant filled wall. The way they move effortlessly out makes you question how thick it actually is, or if they know some sort of magical secret on how to navigate through them. Seeing one of the girls catch her robe on a thorn and almost trip dispels the illusion.

“Now this is certainly the cutest intruder I’ve ever seen,” the frontmost girl says. “It’s a shame we’ll make him...Return.”

Your eyes fixate on their robes for a second. The material looks amazing. It’s got a slight shimmer to it, which usually gives a rough, rigid texture. But even from here, you can tell the cloth is soft. It hangs off of them like silk sheets, but seem as thick as a low rated blanket. You want to reach out and touch it. “That looks amazing.”

“Look, he’s already spellbound.” The girl on the left strikes a pose, tossing her long, luxurious hair back. A second later, a heavy scent strikes you like a wiffle bat. Usually you’re sensitive to to that sort of thing, but this one, despite it’s weight, is not overpowering.

Bella’s head shifts to view something in the bushes. You can’t see it because the lead girl, wearing a big smirk, is in the way at first. But then, when it’s almost too late to act, you see Lilligant burst out of the brush and fly through the air right at Bella! She's so fast! You doubt you can act before she hits, but it might be possible with some luck.

>Use Pin Missile before she clears the distance!
>Fire Water Sport at the glass ceiling to block most of the sunlight
>Counter after with Poison Jab!
>Use Razor Leaf to cut obstacles into her path
>Something else

>>1919033
>>Fire Water Sport at the glass ceiling to block most of the sunlight
Dampen her power some more and
>>1909430
Supporting this little write up as well, kinda as a way to knock Herb out of his stupor.

>>1919033
>>Fire Water Sport at the glass ceiling to block most of the sunlight

>>1919033
>>Fire Water Sport at the glass ceiling to block most of the sunlight

>>1919033
>>Counter after with Poison Jab!
Like there's being cute with strategies, and then there's actually winning the fight.

Can we just do the latter please?

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Rolled 89, 42 = 131 (2d100)

[Roll it!]

Rolled 24 (1d100)

>>1919088

Rolled 90 (1d100)

>>1919088

Rolled 54 (1d100)

>>1919088

>>1919103
Niceu, not a crit but definitely good.

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“Bella! Hit the ceiling with Mud Sport!”

She’s struck almost as soon as finish your sentence. It’s a heavy blow, sending her off her feet with the momentum, but she recovers while upside down and manages to land on her feet with a little effort. She gets an aggresive look on her face and fires as much water as she can into the glass above, making it as dirty as possible. It’s almost too hard! She quickly corrects and sprays it just enough to connect and stick instead of reflecting off of it. She’s clearly got good control.

Lilligant noticeably slows. She was heading back to the bush, but now she doesn't have the speed for it without exposing her back for a long time.

“What are you doing?” The lead girl loses her composure.”

“Oh. We have to clean that.” Her clumsy friend says dejectedly.

“Unless a big strong man is willing to help us out.” The tallest one with the nice hair says. She fans herself off, aiming it in your direction. Your head feels a little light.

Speaking of light, the greenhouse has gotten noticeably darker. What caused that again? You got distracted by the way the cloth clings to that tall one. She reminds you of someone. Someone tall, with a chest just as...Laki!

“He’s still got his wits.” A voice says.

“He’s going easy, now. Not attacking. I told you it’d be fine.”

The size of the room seems to shift depending on where you focus your eyes. You feel like you’re being messed with, but somehow a part of you wants the girls to mess with you more.

“Should Lilligant dance or go for another attack?”

Your perception of time is a little off. Is this taking forever or happening in an instant? You look at the girls. They’ve gotten a lot closer. The way they walk and that fabric clinging to their hips reminds you of Laki even more. But the way that clumsy one almost trips once again reminds you of Hana.

This isn’t just a pokemon battle, is it? They’re playing a different game.


>Taunt them into using a bad move (But as long as Bella's awake
she'll keep on fighting!)
>Continue fighting and tune them out
>Turn on the charm, yourself. You must have some somewhere.
>Bite your hand to clear your mind
>Retreat! Bella might be winning but you aren’t!
>Ladies, I just want to talk
>Something else

>>1919225
>>Bite your hand to clear your mind
>Bella! Poisoned Cut!

>>1919225
>Turn on the charm, yourself. You must have some somewhere.

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>>1919225
>Bite your hand to clear your mind.

>>1919225
>>1919243
Supporting

ten bucks Liligant hit US with the Teeter dance.

>>1919243
This
>>1919225

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>>1919243
[Did you mean Poison Jab or Sting, or is the idea to use Cut but with a poison typing twist?]

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>>1919225
>Turn on the charm, yourself. You must have some somewhere.
They want to play games, then lets do this
"Bella use Toxic"

>>1919304
Oops sorry, I misread it and thought he wrote Jab.

>>1919304
>is the idea to use Cut but with a poison typing twist?]
This

>>1919225
>“Bella! Hit the ceiling with Mud Sport!”
>Mud Sport

Butts?

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>>1919327

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Rolled 84, 6 = 90 (2d100)

[Roll it!]

Rolled 58 (1d100)

>>1919356

Rolled 18 (1d100)

>>1919356

>>1919356

Rolled 92 (1d100)

>>1919356

Rolled 47 (1d100)

>>1919356
Let's try that roll again.

Rolled 74 (1d100)

>>1919356

Yeah a plus three poison jab should end this

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“He’s got a lot of willpower, doesn’t he?” One giggles to the other.

“A lot of stamina.” The other says, shooting you a coy look from behind her fan.

“Maybe he needs to be Doubled Teamed.” The leader says, fanning herself towards you.

You shake your head. You don’t know what’s going on, but something’s being awakened in you. Something distracting. Your eyes dart between the three young women and take in the way the murky, shifting light from the wet glass ceiling floats over their skin. Your ears delight at the way they giggle. Your nose greedily takes in the smell of...

Stop! You feel an intense guilt at even looking at them this way. You’re a taken guy! Maybe Jane is right about you. Maybe you are just insatiable.

You bite your hand. It’s hard enough to hurt, but not enough to draw blood. That gives you the momentary clarity to act as you squint between the girls and watch Lilligant using Double Team. Poor Bella. She looks so confused as she glances back to you.

“Bella! Poisoned Cut!” You shout. You know you’re distractingly loud, but that’s the point. You want to shatter the strange atmosphere with your command.

Bella holds out an arm, and a thin purple droplet flows down to the tip. Somewhere in that flowery hand is a pointed edge that glistens with the poison. She kicks off after her opponent and it’s duplicates. Lilligant and her doubles flinch before the attack lands, confirming that Bella chose the right one before it connects. You almost think it’s a trick until you see Lilligant come to an ungraceful, slumping collapse. It looks like she passed out instantly.

“Lilligant!” The leader runs back to her pokemon. “I... that stupid jerk, that was too harsh! He...Oh.” She softens. “I’m sorry, Lilligant. You did very well.”

“Oh my.” The tall one disinterestedly plays with her hair. “What booty is this strong intruder after?”

Bella runs back to your arms. She’s shifted entirely from a fierce fighter to an adorable baby. You catch and hold her as she joyfully squeezes herself into your grip.

>What did you girls do to me? This isn’t cool!
>I’m here on behalf of High Priest Hoa to help your branch’s prestige
>Take me to your leader. I have something I want to talk to them about
>...I’ll be right back (go see Hana and Laki)
>Something else

>>1919488
>What did you girls do to me? This isn’t cool!
>Take me to your leader. I have something I want to talk to them about

We don't have time for your shit, there's greater things at stake here!

>>1919488
>>I’m here on behalf of High Priest Hoa to help your branch’s prestige
>>Take me to your leader. I have something I want to talk to them about

>>1919488
>>Take me to your leader. I have something I want to talk to them about
>You did great Bella. *pat her head*

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>>1919488
>Take me to your leader. I have something I want to talk to them about

Consider these ladies conquered.

>>1919488
>>Take me to your leader. I have something I want to talk to them about

>>1919488
>Take me to your leader. I have something I want to talk to them about

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You pat Bella on the head and scratch under her chin. “I’d like to see your leader, actually. I want to talk to them about something.”

“That’s...all? There's nothing else you desire?” Not from them, you think to yourself as you shake your head. They look among themselves. “You could have used to proper entrance, you know.”

You think back to Abigail pushing you in here and grit your teeth. The proper entrance would have been nice. But as you look down at Bella, you realize she wouldn’t have gotten this experience, either. She seems to be having a good time, at least.

They lead you through the maze of plants to what seems like a big, green dome. You’re about to ask how to get in when you hear someone approach from behind. Judging from her posture, elaborate headdress, and age, she’s who you’re looking for.

“Ladies! This is not the proper use our tools! I don’t just mean in terms of using them when it’s uncalled for, but against a boy his age? At this amount? You should be ashamed.” She sniffs the air. “It’s a fortunate thing you didn’t mix it entirely properly. The potency is largely missing.”

“I...We didn’t intend to use it on him.”

“That’s right!” The other pleads. “We just happened to be working on it when he burst through the walls! If he smelled any, it was purely by accident.”

“Y-yeah! Complete accident! We did our best to keep our distance.”

The leader looks down to you. Before she can ask anything, you bow and follow the proper protocol on meeting someone of her status.

“Quite the gentleman.” She says. “Despite their attempts to drag something else out of you. Don’t worry, they’ll be punished severely." She bends over to look you over. "You poor boy, you. I hope they didn't use too much.”

>(lie) They’re telling the truth
>They did it, but please go easy on them
>They fanned it at me. It was on purpose
>Can I get a bottle of that?
>You need to speak with her privately
>Tell her about Hoa’s plan

>>1919629
>You need to speak with her privately
I also want to tell her to go easy on them, but I don't want to confirm or deny their story. Herb isn't a snitch, but he is kind.

>>1919629
>>You need to speak with her privately
>Eh, could have been worse, I still won the Pokémon battle.

>>1919629
>You need to speak with her privately


I want this to be misinterpreted.

>>1919629
>Can I get a bottle of that?
>You need to speak with her privately

I don't want this to be misinterpreted.

>>1919629
>You need to speak with her privately

>>1919629
>They did it, but please go easy on them
>Can I get a bottle of that?
>You need to speak with her privately

>>1919629
>You need to speak with her privately

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“I’d like to speak with you privately.”

She gives you a strange, knowing look. “I hope you understand this isn’t a regular request. I suppose given your bow you must. Very well, but don’t expect much of my time. I’m a busy woman.” She turns to the others, her voice turns shrewd and harsh. “What are you still doing here? Latrine duty, now!” She scowls so hard that you and your pokemon flinch.

The three run off, stumbling over their parting bows.

“Come.” She gracefully parts a path through the green dome, like magic. “This way.”

The interior is breathtaking. Flowers hang in beautiful patterns, a small watery stream runs below what seems like an entirely grown, tiny bridge. But at a careful examination, you see the water is originating from a plastic tube hidden by shrubs. Dice simply dives right into the shallow water, being the only one of your pokemon that’s unphased by the surroundings.

“What brings you here, young...” You turn back to her. She’s laying on a bed of leaves, combing her hair. Her elegant dress clings to her very shapely, womanly body.

“Herb. Well, that’s what my friends call me. My real name is John.” You bow again, then look over your shoulders.

“No. If your friends call you Herb, that’s your real name.” Her smile is so soft and inviting now. A complete change from the woman who yelled at those girls.

“I’m here to invite, and help you with an event.”

She raises an eyebrow.

You explain about the general premise. Whatever time she said she couldn’t waste, she sure does seem to be slow to give you an answer on if she’s in.

“And Hoa really said you’re to help us?”

You nod.

“The beauty branch has a reputation of being...distracting for young men. Convince me you’re worth the hassle.” She’s back to seeming a bit harsh.

>You took the perfume just fine
>Present her with a flower arrangement using what’s available
>Make an impassioned speech about being driven to help this succeed. In your mind, anything is worth putting a smile back on Keira’s face
>Suggest an alteration to her dress
>Turn that old charm on
>Something else

>>1919862
Well, you did beat Pohoa in a fashion show.

>>1919862
>Suggest an alteration to her dress
What better way to prove our skills at fashion for the fashion show we want to throw!

>>1919877
>>1919862
I forgot the >

>Well, you did beat Pohoa in a fashion show.

>>1919862
Both
>>1919881
>>1919877

>>1919862
>>You took the perfume just fine
>Well, you did beat Pohoa in a fashion show.
>Suggest an alteration to her dress

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>>1919862
>Turn that old charm on
Atomic batteries to power, turbines to speed

>Present her with a flower arrangement using what’s available
>Make an impassioned speech about being driven to help this succeed. In your mind, anything is worth putting a smile back on Keira’s face
We combine these two, Maybe incorporate how while a lone flower can be beautiful, a bouquet (the three branches) are magnificent arranged together
>Suggest an alteration to her dress
Maybe mention this in passing (didnt see a full description of her dress so cant get into details without an example)

>>1919862
>>Suggest an alteration to her dress

>>1919862
this
>>1919891

>>1919862
>Present her with a flower arrangement using what’s available
>Suggest an alteration to her dress

>>1919912
Don't know how much I've missed, but can I just say I love the fact how much Rider is getting dropped in these threads in reference to Herb.

>>1919994
I don't know anything about Rider, but he seems very expressive and manly, so it makes sense that he be good to express a feeling Herb would have. Everyone knows that Herb has a large and manly pride.

>>1919994
Since they saw us as nothing but a foreign invader, it seemed fitting to become a true conqueror. That and we kept getting incredible rolls at key moments. Who better to symbolize our true potential

>>1920019
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jHFA7x_IogE&t=55s
One of the best characters in Fate/Zero. Herb should aspire to be like him.
>>1920025
Very apt choice, I'll say that much.

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“I can help.” You insist. “I don’t want to sound unhumble, but I’m not bad at fashion. I beat Pohoa in a fashion show.”

She looks interested now. “Oh. That was you, was it? I heard of an event on Take. A fashion show for a ship. This isn’t a fluke, was it?”

You shake your head. “No. And I’ll prove it...” You look around. “What you’re wearing! Look. A simple cut about an inch or two along the seam there, and maybe one of the purple flowers added right there, would really bring the strengths of this dress out and draw the eye along a Z path.”

She touches her chin, then gets up to look at herself in the mirror. “Yes. Yes! I see!” She exclaims. “Not bad, for an amatuer.”

“So, will you let me help?”

She smiles. It’s so strange when she does that. It’s like a combination of an angel and a loving mother looking down on you. It’s so beautiful in an abstract way. “Yes. Until you give me a reason not to.”

“Great!” You almost leap. “It’ll be a little tricky to balance helping you and the conservationists, but-”

“You’re helping them too?”

“I...well, that’s the plan. I haven’t talked to them yet.”

She leans back and laughs. “How depressing! Leaning so heavily on such a poor boy. I knew our situation was in decline, but this is truly a desperation move. Alright, Herb. Tell me, what’s your idea for our presentation?”

>A musical number showing off a variety of dresses
>A catwalk fashion show
>Each girl should have a small tent with a tea ceremony so many people can experience it
>A talent show where every girl can show what she does best
>Something else

>>1920070
>A musical number showing off a variety of dresses
Sure why not have an Idols show, they could use their weird perfume and shit.

>>1920078
>>1920070
Adding to my vote
Maybe instead of just pure music we could also do poetry, almost like a poetry slam or something.

>>1920070
>A catwalk fashion show
>Maybe show off some of their perfumes, they seem to have a great deal of pride in them

>>1920082
Hmm i like this as well

>>1920070
>A catwalk fashion show
>Maybe show off some of their perfumes, they seem to have a great deal of pride in them

>>1920070
>A catwalk fashion show
The perfume seems to be a ritual thing, so best not mention it.
>Use the opportunity to showcase other aspects of the beauty branch, like flower arrangements and other things that the branch used to be known for.

The fashion would ideally be what's least talked about. The whole thing being a return to form.

>>1920070
>>Each girl should have a small tent with a tea ceremony so many people can experience it
>Each girl should have a small tent with a tea ceremony so many people can experience it

>>1920070
This
>>1920082

>>1920070
>A musical number showing off a variety of dresses

Very expressive, also gives us a chance to get Laki and Hana dressed up to test the dresses.

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“I think something like a musical number, or poetry presentation would be the best thing to move everyone. You could present the dresses, but make the draw and emotional impact come from the songs and poems.”

“My my. You’re an expert manipulator in your spare time, aren’t you?”

You don’t think that’s very true at all. That’s not you. Is it? “I don’t mean anything underhanded. It’s just that, lots of people sort of tune out when it comes to fashion. Music and fashion both go together, though. They both evoke emotion, and add a tone to the atmosphere.”

“It’s not an insult, any more than it is to call someone strong. Beauty, and the pursuit of beautiful things, inspires whole fleets to launch. Whole homes to be built. It’s a grand thing to shape the world around you. Understanding how to use it is honed ability, and it’s what you do with it that matters.. ”

“Oh.” You say mareepishly. “On that note, those perfumes seem like they could help.”

“Those aren’t for public use.” Her voice carries a tone of annoyance. “It’s irresponsible to give that power to girls who will most certainly abuse it, and it gives us a poor reputation. It’s a crutch, an emergency measure, and not something to use frivolously.”


>With all due respect, you yourself said this was a desperate situation
>Okay. No perfume
>Can I invite other girls to help?
>Spend a few hours going over dress designs
>Something else

>>1920225
>Okay. No perfume
>Can I invite other girls to help?
>Spend a few hours going over dress designs

>>1920225
>>Okay. No perfume
>Spend a few hours going over dress designs

>>1920225
>With all due respect, you yourself said this was a desperate situation
>Spend a few hours going over dress designs

>>1920225
>Can I invite other girls to help?
>Spend a few hours going over dress designs
>We apologies, we merely thought that a full display of all the Beauty Branches magnificent talents should be shown. Surely regulated by your wisdom the perfume could be displayed if only briefly.

>>1920225
>Okay. No perfume
Nothing worth doing is ever done by taking the easy route.
>Spend a few hours going over dress designs

>>1920225
>Okay. No perfume
>Spend a few hours going over dress designs
>Can I invite other girls to help?

>>1920225
>Okay. No perfume
>Spend a few hours going over dress designs

>>1920266
This. No kill like overkill

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“Right. No perfume then.” You say, letting her know it’s not a problem. “I didn’t mean any offense. I just thought about displaying all the talents of the beauty branch.”

“Oh, displaying all of my talents wouldn’t be appropriate for a young man your age.” She laughs, giving you a wink. For some reason, you feel like you’re being assessed.

“Oh. Okay.” You think. “Hey, can I invite other girls to help?”

She twists her mouth. “Other girls? Ah. I see now. Well, I’d like to meet them first and hear their attempts. My students all spend a lot of time and work perfecting their craft. But if you know someone that could help draw in more attention, -good attention-, then bring them to me.”

You spend the next few hours going over dresses. You were thinking of just looking at drawings, but she claps her hands and summons girls to model various designs, giving you an overview of the philosophy and history behind them. You feel a sense of pride when you can keep up and even make some educated guesses on the symbolism behind some things as time goes on. Truth be told, she’s mostly bouncing ideas off of you and then, hearing herself talk, deciding what she likes the sound of. But once in awhile you’re able to contribute and it feels great. It helps to offset your discomfort in having these girls come and model for you. She keeps assuring the girls you’re “not a concern for their modesty,” whatever that means.

Time flies and you eventually feel you should go back to your friends. She wishes you luck with the conservationists and makes a strange comment about keeping your situation to herself.

Laki and Hana are both tapping their feet impatiently. Abigail has a spritely energy to her as you approach. Keira looks like she’s still pretty down. She brightens up a little when Dice gives her a gentle bite.

“Where have you been?” Laki grinds her teeth. “Abigail tells us you were with the beauty branch? Without a female escort?”


>Yeah. And the perfume they use is crazy! And the girls modeling needed a lot of design help. You’re exhausted
>Abigail pushed me in!
>I didn’t know you were waiting this whole time. Let me make it up to you
>Take them aside, explain the situation and ask them not to say anything to Keira
>Ask everyone to just trust you for the next little while. You promise you’re working on something for a good cause and can’t really talk about it
>Something else

>>1920452
>>Yeah. And the perfume they use is crazy! And the girls modeling needed a lot of design help. You’re exhausted
>Ask everyone to just trust you for the next little while. You promise you’re working on something for a good cause and can’t really talk about it
>I didn’t know you were waiting this whole time. Let me make it up to you

>>1920452
>Abigail pushed me in!
>Take them aside, explain the situation and ask them not to say anything to Keira

>>1920452
>>I didn’t know you were waiting this whole time. Let me make it up to you
>>Take them aside, explain the situation and ask them not to say anything to Keira

>>1920452
>>Yeah. And the perfume they use is crazy! And the girls modeling needed a lot of design help. You’re exhausted
>Ask everyone to just trust you for the next little while. You promise you’re working on something for a good cause and can’t really talk about it

>I didn’t know you were waiting this whole time. Let me make it up to once we catch our breath. Fashion is hard when you have to do it en masse.

>>1920452
>Yeah. And the perfume they use is crazy!
And also
>Come here, for some reason I haven't been able to stop thinking about you two.
And later I feel like we should do something like:
>Talk to Keira. People keep asking you to promise to keep secrets and it's eating at you. What's the more important thing to do? Keep your word, or be honest?

>>1920452
>I didn’t know you were waiting this whole time. Let me make it up to you
>Take them aside, explain the situation and ask them not to say anything to Keira

>>1920452
>>I didn’t know you were waiting this whole time. Let me make it up to you
>>Take them aside, explain the situation and ask them not to say anything to Keira
So, was the Leader of the beauty branch calling Herb a homo with all that “not a concern for their modesty,” business? I'm not completely sure here.

>>1920452
>I didn’t know you were waiting this whole time. Let me make it up to you
>Ask everyone to just trust you for the next little while. You promise you’re working on something for a good cause and can’t really talk about it

>>1920508
Well, we didn't say anything about being affected by the feminine wiles, we didn't say anything about our girlfriends but implied we were friends with girls, we associated with Pohoa, we know our way around a closet, we deadpanned her joke about how she does sex things... yeah. I guess that's the impression Herb tends to give.

>>1920563
That's fair. More fuel for showing Herb's pride as a man!

>>1920452
>>Yeah. And the perfume they use is crazy! And the girls modeling needed a lot of design help. You’re exhausted
>>Abigail pushed me in!
>>Take them aside, explain the situation and ask them not to say anything to Keira

And if the girls complain:
>Hey! I may not be a monogamous man, but I'm a dedicated one!

>>1920508
If that is the case then the biggest shocker is gonna be when we have two girlfriends and yet we didn't end up going for the beauty branch women

>>1920452
>>1920496
>>1920595
Supporting this all.

>>1920595
We can always offer to make them sticky buns later
Imagine Hana's disappointment when we bring out a tray of pastries

>>1920640
>Disappointment
I think you mean embarrassment.

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“Yeah. And the perfume they used was crazy. And the girls modeling needed a lot of design help, so-”

You see the looks you’re getting and stop talking. The atmosphere is like you just stepped on a landmine and have no way to get off without exploding. Abigail even slaps her forehead on your behalf.

You move on. “I didn’t know everyone was waiting. I’m sorry everyone. Let me make it up to you.” You approach apologetically.

Laki and Hana glance at each other. “Herb, I know you’re not that kind of guy, but it still makes us feel inadequate when other girls get all your attention.”

“Keep it down!” Laki admonishes Hana. “Come on! You can’t go around exposing us like that.”

“Sorry.” Hana looks down and blushes at the same time. She immediately changes when you grab her hand, then Laki’s.

“I’ll make it up to both of you. But I need to talk to both of you for a minute.”

"Oh, I know you will." Laki says, rotating her shoulders. Hana looks like she has something else in mind, though. You take them aside and explain the situation. Before you can ask, Laki gives her feedback.

“It’s shit. I don't know why everyone comes to you with their problems. Koa shouldn’t be keeping Keira out of this. She can handle herself.”

“Wait.” Hana says, putting a hand on Laki’s wrist. “I understand how he feels, not wanting to give someone close to him a burden to deal with.”

“So what? It’s still wrong. Keira is-”

“Fragile.” Hana says. “She cares deeply about everyone and everything and she sees the world...brighter than any of us. Look at her. Does she look like someone that should be put into the crosshairs of Koa’s rivals? Or to see someone she looks up to be so... I don’t know. Flawed?”

“Yeah. I get it. ‘Let her have her illusions about her hero.’” Laki sighs, looking off into the distance. “Anything is better than seeing how human they are. Even I’m feeling disillusioned about the clergy, the more I see all their petty politics. I won’t tell Keira anything. Now that you made that point, I don’t know if I could.” Laki’s blunt vulnerability surprises both of you.

You explain about the fashion show.

“Woah! Woah! You want us up there?” Laki backs away. “Nah ah. No way. Not happening.”

“I’ll do it!” Hana says cheerfully.

“Really?”

“Yeah. Public speaking isn’t that hard for me I guess. It’s not any different from forcing yourself to be social in front of a small group.” She scratches Mace. He seems to agree very much with the scratching and her comment.

“So I guess you should go visit the conservationists and see how Koa did with them.” Laki says, changing the subject again. “Should we come or...”


>No. Please keep Keira company
>Yes, let’s go. But I want to talk to Keira first
>Wait, I want to ask Abigail to help too
>I had something else in mind (write in)
>Something else

>>1920662
>No. Please keep Keira company
>Wait, I want to ask Abigail to help too

>>1920662
>Yes, let’s go. But I want to talk to Keira first
I just want to see how she's doing. Let's try not to tell her about our secret mission.

>>1920662
>Yes, let’s go. But I want to talk to Keira first

I want to ask her what we should do, about how people keep asking us to keep their secrets.

>>1920662
>Wait, I want to ask Abigail to help too
She could help with distracting Keira.

>Inb4 she's already figured out something's going on and she's not quite as naive as Koa assumed.

>>1920662
>>Yes, let’s go. But I want to talk to Keira first

>>1920662
>No. Please keep Keira company
>Something else
get a quick kiss for dat THOT vaccine

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“Yes please.” You give them each a squeeze on their legs. “But I want to talk to Keira first.”

“Good luck.” Laki’s still lost in thought.

Silly Laki. Luck is never good. That’s why you need to enjoy all the things in life when they’re not going wrong.

“Hi Herb.” Keira greets you with what seems like a mighty effort to show even a little energy. “Gobble looks nervous.”

Gobble looks even more nervous now that she’s said that.

“Oh, um, does he?” You wish so much you didn’t have to keep something from her.

“He’s getting it from you.” She states flatly. “You’re conflicted. Are you alright?” Despite her depressed mood, she has a concerned tone for you.

It makes you feel even more guilty. “I was going to ask you the same question.”

The energy she summoned seems to collapse around her. “No. Yes. I don’t know. It’s not just this. It’s everything. Isn’t it strange? I’ve seen people die. I’ve seen the light fade from their eyes while they wished for it not to and I thought of it the same way you assure a scared child that they’ll come out of their first haircut just fine. I never had a doubt. But now. I just see so much going on with the temples. I know we’re all flawed, I can understand that. But why do things change over time if we’re so sure? Is it the truth, or is it whatever is convenient to tell ourselves and others at the time?”

>You don’t know.
>Tell her about your Rayquaza dreams
>Real or not, it comforts and brings people together
>Maybe they don’t know every little detail for certain, but are right about the basic things
>Something else

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[That's the last update for the night. It's iffy if we'll run tomorrow, but if not, we'll have a session sometime during the early to mid week]

>>1920832
>>Tell her about your Rayquaza dreams

>>1920832
>Maybe they don’t know every little detail for certain, but are right about the basic things
Context changes
>Tell her about your Rayquaza dreams
Speaking of changing context, we really need to get this plot thread rolling. And if there's one person we can trust with this, it's Keira.

>>1920832
>Something else
holy shit, this is way over our head. is there anywhere we can go outside the temple to talk about this? somewhere that might be closer to how she remembers it

>>1920832
>Maybe they don’t know every little detail for certain, but are right about the basic things

>Tell her about your Rayquaza dreams
Not flat out ask, more like
>Weird random question: Whats you opinion on legendary pokemon like say, oh i dont know, Rayquaza?
Cause this could be a powder keg; just saying and sky dragon might bite us in the ass later

>>1920843
Have a good night Gobble! Thanks for running!

>>1920832
>You don’t know.
>Change is inevitable because the set of people in the world always changes.
>What matters is that people do their best to do what's right.
>It's only scary when you don't know what's right.
>lately I've been conflicted about when people have me keep their secrets. Then I'm not sure what I think is right.

>>1920843
Goodnight! Did you think of any good names for Hana and Laki's relationship? I'm partial to Sal-mates. (Sal as in salandit)

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>>1920864
[Thanks for coming! The good/bad news is that my job might be coming on a break depending on how a new contract goes, so I might have more quest time soon]
>>1920873
[I like that a lot, actually. I think it's very Pokemon-esque]

>>1920843
thanks for running Gobble!

>>1920832
>Tell her about your Rayquaza dreams
>>1920863
Supporting the way he suggested.
>>1920865
Supporting this as well.

>>1920878
Thanks for running, Gobble. Another fun thread! Those Beauty Branch girls really burned my biscuits!