paladinlost | 23rd moon [video/action]

Mr. Cecil?

[It sounds like you're having a bad day]

Hello, Roxas! How are you today?

[The day had its ups and downs, really.]

I'm alright. What about you?

Today was a good and productive day. Painful, but good and productive.

What was painful?

...Falling off the path inside the Gym.

Yeah. Hayate had that problem as well.

[That gym is starting to worry him]

It was my own fault. I was doing well, but Demon distracted me.

He did?

By her mere presence, too. At least we now know she did not find herself in the hands of an abusive trainer.

Was she lost?

...Somewhat. Her trainer disappeared a week ago, and no one knew where she'd ended up.

Oh. It's good that you found her then.

At least this one is happy. Only his Cyndaquil is missing, now.

I hope you can find it.

So do I. I'll look around until I do.

I can look to. I'm on my way to Ecruteak.

Thank you. He should be easy to recognize. Few Cyndaquils are over level eighty.

Why's he got so high a level?

He refused to evolve, even when his trainer asked.

That's weird.

[Granted he hasn't evolved Sparky, and probably won't]

Perhaps he liked being small enough to be picked up?

Maybe.

[Filing this under the pokemon are weird category]

After all, I doubt it was merely to upset his trainer. He seemed quite attached to him.

Maybe he wanted to prove that he could be tough without evolving.

That's quite possible. Most trainers do seem to prefer evolved Pokémon, after all.

Well, they're usually stronger.

But in some cases, evolution can change a Pokémon completely, like with Eevees. Keeping one unevolved might be useful in a group strategy.

Do Cyndaquils change types when they evolve though?

I think they do not, but I've never seen their evolutions. Perhaps they look frightening?

Maybe. Xion has one so I guess we'll see. I think she's letting it evolve.

That's right, she does. But there is another stage after that, is there not?

I think so. Most of them have two evolutions.

I think mine are split relatively equally between one and two stages. Pokémon that do not evolve at all seem rather rarer.

Yeah. I wonder if there's a way to find out more about that, without having to wait and see if your pokemon will evolve.

I suppose you could ask the nurses, but that only works if you are near a city.

I'll have to do that when I reach Ecruteak.

Will you ask them about a Pokémon in particular?

I don't know. I haven't decided yet.

You could ask about them all, but that might take some time to answer.

I think it's more fun to find out on my own.

Discovering can be interesting, but I like to be warned if a Pokémon has multiple evolutionary paths. It can help when I plan my training.

That makes sense. I've just sort of been winging it.

[Roxas's strategy = mun's strategy. Oh that one looks cool I'll add it to my team]

Did that lead to any particularly pleasant surprises? A Pokémon caught on a whim that knew useful attacks?

[Cecil looks for Pokémon that remind him of people or other aspects from home. And he adopts. A lot. Unlike his mun, who catches meatshields for when she needs to revive her starter.]

Sometimes. I'm training Axel and Xion, my Growlithe and Luxio, to work together and combining electric and fire attacks is really effective.

Fearows are really strong to.

Electric and fire? That should overwhelm most types, except perhaps ground and dragon. Where did you catch a Fearow?

By Azalea Town. I caught him when he was a Spearow.

He must be quite attached to you, after all this time. Is he tall enough for you to fly with him?

He is. I can't get on his back but if I hang on to his feet he can sort of carry me.

Isn't that tiring, after a few minutes?

Sort of. We don't usually go very far.

Just long enough to enjoy the feeling, then?

Yeah. And training.

Are training him for strength or for endurance?

Both really. Though strength helps in terms of strategy. If he can lift stuff up, I can use that.

You could ask it to pick up and drop a Pokémon, then. That could be a powerful attack.

I'm trying to think out of the box so that I'm ready for anything.

'Anything' might be unnecessary, as long as you are ready for those square abominations from October.

If they come back, I'm ready for them.

Do you think someone will manage to catch one, this time?

Maybe. I don't want to. I'd rather not see them again if I can help it.

[No more data worlds plz]

I'd wish for their permanent absence, but I don't trust this world that much.

It's seems like anything could happen.

...No planet-destroying moons. That's all I ask.

I don't think we have to worry about that.

We thought the same back home, and yet...

I'd be more worried about pokemon than moons.

...Pokémon from the moon, then? Pokémon that look like moons?

I meant pokemon causing problems, rather than the moon causing a problem.

A pokemon than looks like a moon would be weird.

[Roxas has never met a lunatone]

Pokémon do cause enough problems without any moons involved.

Well, I did see one that is star-shaped.

[Neither has Cecil, but once he does he will want it forever and ever.]

[He so needs one]

They come in all shapes I guess.

Personally, I found the floating magnets and the tree to be the biggest surprises.

Geodudes. Porygon are pretty weird to.

[But He thinks they're also pretty cool. He could see uses for them]

Porygon? I've never seen one of those before. What do they look like?

They're red and blue and kinda...sharp. They can get into computers and stuff.

Watanuki has one.

Perhaps they would make all those machines easier to use. Did he catch it somewhere, or was it his starter?

I think he started with it.

It does sound like a species that would be hard to find in caves or grass.

I wonder if you can find them.

In a building with a lot of computers, perhaps?

Maybe. I'll ask Watanuki about it.

His Pokédex would be able to tell, would it not?

Yeah. That's what I'm hoping.

At the very least, it should mention a general habitat.

Yeah. I'm sure it does.

Then again, some of the information in the Pokédex seems rather... exaggerated.

Really?

[Gullible kid is gullible]

Banettes are supposedly abandoned dolls. While they certainly have the look, they do not have the feel of a toy. And the smell of a Bayleef's neck is supposed to make you want to fight, but I've never had that reaction around Lydia.

...Maybe it only affects pokemon.

It also says that Feebas is the shabbiest Pokémon.

[Try defending that.]

What's a Feebas?

[This pokemon is largely unknown to him. Granted he doesn't have a very high opinion of magikarp so...yeah]

[To answer, Cecil merely points at the eggs, while the proud mother waves happily.]

[Roxas nods. Granted, he hasn't seen the pokemon inside the eggs.]

That doesn't seem shabby at all.

Perhaps whoever wrote the entry was making a joke. Or perhaps it is an honest mistake.

[Or perhaps it is the truth. ...Then again, with some of the later gens...]

Maybe. I don't really know how the pokedex really works so...

Someone must write the entries, but why stop us from accessing them until we obtain that Pokémon?

That's part of the journey though, isn't it? To find out about all the new pokemon and fill up the pokedex.

[He's been taking his trainer duties very seriously]

It is, from what I remember of the Professor's speech. But why do they ask us to do so?

Well, they're at their labs working, right? They don't really have the time to be running all over the world. It makes sense that since we're already out exploring as trainers that we can do it for them.

Yet we do not receive any form of payment. We should ask for better work conditions.

Wouldn't our pokemon and the badges count? You can't really help the weather...

[Kid takes things way to seriously]

You could say our starters and the contents of our backpack are our payment, along with perhaps those eggs from Christmas. But everything else was bought with money we earned through other work or caught by our own efforts. They could at least send a thank you note.

It's enough payment for me.

Yeah, that would be nice though.

I'd not mind receiving a few potions every so often. Or even answers to some questions.

[a shrug]

I guess that'd be nice.

It would encourage many people to be more active about it.

Yeah, I guess so.

[For once, a pokemon that isn't offputting to him right off the bat. This says a lot considering how BIG Leviathan is]

If they will, indeed, grow up to be as lovely as their mother, I would be interested...

It takes about two months before they evolve. You merely need to take good care of them and keep them happy. But the results are well worth it.

[Not quite, but that's as close as it gets.]

If you are around Ecruteak, you can come and choose one personally. Otherwise, I can send it to you by mail Pidgey, if you wish.

[taking a moment to consider]

I can't imagine that would be TOO much of a problem, unless they tend toward being temperamental.

[which he finds hard to believe, considering how very at-peace the proud mother seems to be]

I am, however, currently in Violet City if that won't be a problem. ....a-and if the mother approves, of course.

Leviathan was rather friendly and mellow. Her offspring should not cause you any trouble.

[The proud mother is now looking at him and nodding.]

I believe you've received her approval. I'll send you the egg by Pidgey. You should receive it within the next two days.

[He smiles, seeming pleased by this and nods]

Then I'll borrow the center's PC to transfer your payment once my shift has ended.

This frequency is fine or would you prefer it be left in another name?

This one will be perfectly fine. Would you like me to wrap the egg in a scarf, to protect it from the cold?

That would be lovely, thank you

Very well. You'll receive it promptly. Please tell me if it gives you any trouble.

Aren't the babies from Milotics, like those really weak fish.

My Leviathan was never a weak fish. Even as a Feebas, she could fight quite well.

[Of course, that's because she had Dragon Breath as an egg move.]

Hmmm really.

[He looks at the Leviathan, it did look strong and strong parents meant strong kids.]

Okay then I'll like one of her eggs.

I apologize, young man, but all of them were already sold. [A pause.] However, I can keep one from the next batch aside for you, if you'd like.

[Shrugs]

Sure, I don't mind waiting. Just make sure you tell me when they come.

Mister...

I'll be certain to do so, then.

My name is Cecil. Cecil Harvey. [He bows elegantly.] And you are?

[Did this guy just bow, okay then but Killua wasn't going to bow back..]

I'm Killua. Killua Zoldyck. [Just salutes Cecil back.]

It is a pleasure to meet you, Killua. You'll be the first to know about Leviathan's next eggs.

Nice meeting you too. Cecil and thanks.

You're welcome. I'll keep you informed.

[Then Take 2 happens. Twice in one day Cecil, really?]

[Cecil apparently requires even more looking after than Firion did.]

Cecil-

It seems that you have had an eventful time. You are unhurt?

Perfectly fine! ...But I am never letting Leviathan and Seifer out at the same time again.

They are the source of the eggs, then?

Yes. And Leviathan appears to be quite interested in being the source of more.

[All he can think is that it's a good thing none of his pokemon seem interested in doing that.]

And you do not mind it? Since you are attempting to give away the eggs...

Oh, they'll both be grounded. [Even the level 83 angry serpent.] I give them away mostly because I have no room or time for them. Besides, we need money to travel, and I've not worked for a few weeks.

Grounded?

Perhaps you should pause there in order to replenish your funds. [Pause] It would give me the time to join you.

No dessert for a week.

Of course. I'll go south to open the path for you, if you wish. Flare should still be able to run that far. Unless Bartz's water attacks are sufficient?

Will that be enough to keep them from trying again?

You need not trouble yourself. I will likely obtain my third badge soon enough.

Probably not, but it might be enough to convince them to wait a few weeks before trying again.

Good luck, then! If you show the match on the network, I'll be certain to cheer you on!

Good fortune, then. Hopefully the eggs will not overwhelm you.

I may not. My pokemon are not used to it, and Cornelia especially will be made nervous.

They should not, considering they'll be with loving trainers before long. Feebas are surprisingly popular.

I see. We'd not want her to feel uneasy. In that case, you'll be in our thoughts.

They are? [What is so popular about a fish. He doesn't get this.]

I will be certain to let you know, and I will join you as soon as possible.

I've already received many requests. I might have to reserve eggs from the next clutch, in fact.

We'll be waiting patiently. I was hoping to take Edward and Rydia sightseeing, in fact.

And I assume that is only encouraging them.

Is there that much for them to see?

Encouragement is useless if one of them is in storage.

The Kimono girls, Mt. Mortar, both of the towers, the fields nearby... We'll find many things to do, if we have to.

That seems to me a far more appropriate way to "ground" them.

If nothing else, there are the pokemon.

As long as I have no need for them in battle, at least.

True. The routes surrounding Ecruteak contain a great variety of Pokémon. I've even seen floating magnets.

Your team is strong enough that the absence of one member will not hurt them too much.

I see. Something to look forward to, then.

But I need to take their morale into account, too.

I've also found balls of poisonous gas within the Burned Tower. I'd suggest being careful if you plan to visit.

Better to separate them than to constantly take away their eggs, it seems.

Of course. Thank you for the warning. What type are they?

Leviathan does not seem to mind. I believe she'd protest if she disapproved of a trainer, however.

Poison. They are easy to avoid, as long as you use your nose. Their color makes it difficult to see them in the dark.

Hmm. Perhaps they would be worth observing, then.

They also hold very lovely spheres that appear to have some sort of practical use.

You have not been able to learn that use yet?

I gave it away as a gift, for Christmas. I'll have to obtain a new one, if I wish to experiment with it.

Hmm. To whom?

Kaito. He's a magician, and he trains Biz, Rosie's sweetheart. Since the ball was smoky and mysterious, I thought it would fit.

Agreed. Hopefully he has made use of it, then.

I'll have to ask him, one of these days.

I would like to know if he has learned anything of interest about it.

Perhaps he has. Asking him about it cannot hurt.

[That's certainly an interesting looking Pokemon. And it looks like it could be ridden...]

I too would be interested in purchasing an egg.

I'm quite sorry, miss, all of them were already sold. But I have no doubt those two will make more in the future. When that happens, I can keep one for you, if you'd like.

I see. I appreciate the offer.

I'll be certain to inform you of the next batch, Miss...?

You may call me Rider.

I suppose it would only be fair to ask for the name of the one I am making the purchase with.

Rider? You must be the one he mentioned, then. My name is Cecil. Cecil Harvey. [He bows elegantly.] It is a pleasure to meet you.

He?

The pleasure is mine.

A man named Lancer. We were talking about Pokémon tall enough to ride, and he said that you own a Ponyta.

....I see. Is that all he said about me?

He also said you both came from the same world, but that's all.

[Well, that makes her feel somewhat better. Somewhat.]

That is correct. We are both from relatively the same world.

Finding people from home here is always a nice surprise, even if they come from the past. Are you from the same time?

That would depend on who it is you happen to find. And no, we are not.

[Well, they kind of ARE. They just happen to be in separate parallel universes.]

I was blessed enough to find people I care for, though I sympathise with the problems caused by varying times.

Then you are more fortunate than others.

I do hope you'll also find your loved ones here, then.

As do I.

[Huh.]

I am very interested in an egg of that pokemon. Am I correct in assuming that it is a water type?

She is. She has no secondary type, and her ability raises her defense if she is poisoned or paralyzed. Are you currently staying near Ecruteak? If that is the case, you can come to choose the egg personally, if you wish.

I am still in Ecruteak, yes, and I am quite glad that I was able to see this broadcast before I headed off towards Mahogany -- I will take you up on your offer. Where are you currently located? I presume it is a hotel, judging from your backdrop, but I am uncertain as to which one it is.

I am currently staying at the inn closest to the Pokémon Center, on the first floor. You can come at your convenience; I'll be here the whole day.

If that is the case, then I will arrive within fifteen minutes. Please expect me promptly.

Of course. We'll be waiting for you.

[And indeed, the eight eggs will be lined up, ready for inspection.]

[Just as promised, she arrives at the thirteen-minute mark, locating the hotel room by sheer size alone (something that can contain a pokemon that large had to be one of the larger suites, and there really weren't that many large suites).

Have three brisk knocks on the door.]

[Ah, a knock. Cecil gets up and answers the door.]

Good afternoon! Please, come in. [He moves aside to let her in.] Do you wish for more information about Feebas and Milotic, before you buy one?

[She nods, most approving of the efficient state of things. Striding into the room, she gives the place a quick look-over, before focusing back on Cecil.]

Of course, that would be appreciated. I conducted a little research on the pokemon on my way here -- therefore, I know of the basics. However, the pokedex was not rich on the details of this pokemon.

For starters -- this feebas, it is a fish, is it not? What does it do in order to attack?

It is a fish indeed. To be frank, they learn few attacks at first. Leviathan knew the Dragon-type Dragon Breath at birth, but according to the Pokédex that is unusual. However, as their father is a high-levelled Gyarados, they might have inherited attacks from him.

At first, training one will be much like training a Magikarp; you'll have to use another Pokémon to do the damage. However, unlike Magikarp, Feebas can learn attacks from Technical and Hidden Machines. I know for a fact that they are compatible with Ice Beam; I also suspect Surf would work. That last one can be obtained by defeating Morty, if you wish.

[He finally breathes.]

Do you have any other questions?

I am afraid that your analogy with the Magikarp is lost on me, for I have never had the misfortune of training one. [This is said a little dryly, though more in derision than anything else.] However, I have gotten the gist of the explanation. It sounds as though it would be a challenge to train.

I do have one last question -- at what level does this fish evolve into the Milotic?

It can be, but it is a very rewarding challenge.

From what I can tell, their evolution is happiness-based. Depending on your training regimen and the way you treat it, it could take place at level 10 or level 50. Leviathan evolved after approximatively two months; I've found that massaging her softly after training made her reliably happy.

Edited 2011-03-11 01:29 (UTC)

[She pauses, raising an eyebrow.]

... am I to take it that I am supposed to pamper the fish in order for it to evolve?

...Yes. Well, you need to keep it content and elegant, at least. A few other species also evolve in that manner. But pampering them does not impede their training in the slightest, I assure you.

Elegance, I can deal with. [She mulls over this, giving the eggs a critical look-over.] And I suppose the end result is much worth the challenge, considering its type and its beauty.

[coming to a decision, she nods.] I will purchase an egg.

Very well. [He points at the row of eggs.] Please, choose whichever you'd prefer. You can manipulate them if you wish.

Of course. [And she moves onto the clutch, crouching by the pile of eggs as she gives each one of them a careful look-over. Once in a while, she reaches into the clutch and lifts an egg carefully, scrutinizing it from all sides before setting it down again amongst the other eggs, marking down mentally which eggs she's already considered and which ones still require her perusal.

After a good few minutes, she emerges from the clutch with an egg in hand, apparently satisfied. The egg has a mottled splotch that somewhat resembled a droplet of water, which caught her eye. Franziska isn't one to believe in omens, but the pattern is appealing, and in all honesty she doesn't know how to properly appraise eggs anyway.

She shows the egg to Cecil, almost proudly.] I have chosen this one.

The price is P1000, correct?

[He watches as she appraises them, noting the careful way she manipulates the eggs. Once she expresses her choice, he smiles.]

Very well. That is indeed the price. Would like a scarf or a bag to wrap it? I can give you one, if you wish.

[She nods, still cradling the egg. It feels heavy in her arms.]

A scarf would be optimal. I would like the best scarf you have to offer. After all, this pokemon will now be under my care, and I will not tolerate anything less than the best.

Of course.

[He starts rummaging through a pile of scarves, and takes out a blue one.]

This one is the same color as a Feebas' fins. Will it do?

[She takes the scarf, satisfied.]

I appreciate the thought that went into the choice of this scarf. [And then realizing something, she holds the scarf out to him again, along with the egg this time.] I will ask for you to wrap the egg in my stead, however.

I will require both hands to count out the money, and I have no wish to place the egg on the floor.

[He takes them both with a smile.]

Of course. I'll take care of it quickly.

[And after a last pat from Leviathan's tail, he starts wrapping the egg carefully, covering every single inch of it.]

[Satisfied that the egg will be taken care of, she then proceeds to fish out her wallet and dig out the proper amount of change for the egg.

With P1000 in her hands and ready to go, she pauses.]

And the price of the scarf?

The scarf is free; I have so many, my bag is starting to become heavy. By taking it, you are doing me a favor.

[Once he's certain the egg is perfectly wrapped, he offers it to her.]

[Well, if it's free, she's not going to argue.]

I will consider it complimentary, then. [Taking the egg, she offers the money, before looking over his handiwork with a critical eye. The egg seems snug.

A nod.]

It is well-wrapped. Allow me to extend my appreciation.

Thank you. I'm quite glad it pleases you.

[He puts the money in his wallet after merely a quick look. From her careful attitude, he can tell it is the right amount.]

Of course. However, it appears that I have neglected to introduce myself -- an oversight which I will now remedy.

My name is Franziska von Karma. As I have been informed that it is a rather long name, I suppose you may address me simply as 'Miss von Karma'. Alternatively, 'Miss Franziska' is also entirely acceptable.

I've also completely forgotten my manners, it seems. I should have introduced myself when I sent the message in the first place.

It is a pleasure to meet, Miss Franziska. My name is Cecil. Cecil Harvey. [He bows elegantly.] My normal form of address would be overly bothersome in these circumstances. You may call me whatever you wish.

[In return, she shifts the egg to one arm and curtsies neatly.]

Likewise. If you are not opposed to it, I will keep in contact with you in regards to the progress of the fish. It will be a challenge -- but as an heir of the von Karma name, I will surpass any and all challenges.

[Having said her bit, she straightens haughtily.] Well, then, I have finished my business. I trust that we are done here?

Of course. I have no doubt it will grow to become a wonderful Milotic. If you have any questions about its development, do not hesitate to ask.

We are. Do you wish to be escorted to the inn's entrance? [He gestures toward the door.]

Of course. I will keep your offer in mind.

And that sounds satisfactory -- I will allow for you to escort me. [She then makes her way towards the door, waiting, of course, for him to open it for her as is appropriate.]

[And open the door he does, with a smile and a flourish.]

After you, Milady.

[Striiiding through confidently. Now this is more like it.

They part at the lobby. She nods, and walks out into the cool air of day.

/o/ \o\ \o/]

[He waves as she leaves, before returning to his room and the seven eggs that still wait there.

♥]

[... well.]

Exciting day, isn't it?

I do wish it had been somewhat calmer. At least we managed to earn the badge.

I didn't realize gym leaders were so creative, though. Was that a pitfall?

The whole room is a pitfall. There is almost no light, and the only safe path is nearly invisible.

Three parts gym challenge, one part circus demonstration. [Amusement.] I can't blame them, though -- even gym leaders have to have their fun, even if it's watching trainers scoot head-first down a giant pitfall.

I had little trouble with the path at first, but when I saw Pandemonium... I suppose I forgot to look before I stepped.

That's an interesting name, for a pokemon that more or less resembles a giant hot-air balloon.

I believe Squall named her after a creature from his world, but he did not share any information about their resemblance before he left.

Charming. I'm a little jealous, actually. Every other world out there seems to have fascinating creatures living in it.

Back in mine, we just had our cats, dogs and over-sized gerbils.

Cats, dogs and gerbils have their charms, too. And the lack of monsters must make travelling much easier.

Not really. If I had to say anything, monsters sound decent when compared to the evil, evil thing we call 'public transportation'. [... he's joking.

Maybe.]

Public transportation? It sounds innocent enough...

Doesn't it? Until you get on, and realize that it eats souls for breakfast.

[... pause.] Lunch and dinner too, now that I think about it.

...I believe I'll stay far away from it, should I ever encounter it.

[Someone won't be taking the train between Goldenrod and Saffron, that's for sure.]

I've heard wearing tinfoil hats reduce the effects, a little. But that's probably the smart thing to do.

Besides, I think public transportation is obsolete here, anyway, Johto with its giant birds and fish galore.

Tinfoil?

As someone who is used to riding, I have to admit I prefer to do so. I find travelling on my Arcanine quite familiar, and I have no doubt Leviathan will make crossing bodies of water enjoyable. In fact, I should also try to find a Flying-type; it must make journeys even faster.

Metal, sort of. It's thinner, and it's far more malleable. They make cute boat hats, if you press them the right way.

I've seen people with a sort of a bird with metal plating on it -- it doesn't look practical in the air, but I think that it still flies. Barring that, a pidgeot is always a classic choice. [Pause. Consideration.] ... someone should make a list of all these types of birds, actually. I'm having a little trouble keeping track of all of them.

Edited 2011-03-11 02:26 (UTC)

Does it have any uses, other that the hats? It would be too weak for most objects.

Ah, yes, a Skarmory. I know a few owners. And one of my friends has a Pidgey. ...I've seen a bird holding a leek west of Ecruteak, but it seemed too small to fly with a rider.

They're good for insulation, mostly. Ah, but I've seen a friend use it to help iron out his underwear. [/so helpful, amirite]

I think I know that bird -- something that starts with an 'f', at any rate. It's a little small, but most creatures here are, before they evolve, and they're all surprisingly strong. Riding on it might not work, but it could probably pull along a hot-air balloon relatively easily.

I believe I'll keep using the same methods I always have.

True, even the smaller ones can be extremely powerful. But it might depend on the number of occupants.

I don't blame you. [Amusement.]

And that's fair enough. It might also depend on the number of birds, too. If there're several people sharing a hot-air-balloon, it's fair to expect that more than one person will contribute a bird.

Especially if they could contribute bigger birds. Those might influence the speed of the craft.

Where would you go? If you had several birds and a hot-air balloon.

Merely flying would be enough, for now. It's been months since I last could.

It's true that the view would be spectacular. Someone once videotaped the Goldenrod skyline, and that was breathtaking already.

That's right. It must be absolutely gorgeous at night, with all of the city's lights.

One of the few reasons why cities keep their lights on. You know, now I want to give it a try, too.

I doubt they'd let us climb the Radio Tower during the night, though.

I wouldn't be so sure of that. Isn't this when being an employee has certain perks?

How unfair. Workers at the Pokémarts get no discounts.

Being an acquaintance of an employee over at the Radio Tower should count for something, I think. If you have time in the evening, you should drop by.

I thank you for the kind offer. But Ecruteak is days away from Goldenrod, and we'll soon move on. Another day, perhaps.

Ah, right, I always forget that everyone's scattered in different cities. The offer will still stand, though, as long as I'm still there when your traveling party gets here.

Thank you. Perhaps we'll go south to replenish our supplies, at some point.

Fair enough.

Congratulations.

I'd very much like to purchase an egg, if that's alright.

Thank you.

[Leviathan uses her tail to wave at France. Hello there!]

Of course. I'll send it to you by Pidgey. Will you be moving in the next two days?

I'm going to be in Goldenrod for the foreseeable future. Should I send the payment back with your Pidgey? Is there anything in Goldenrod that you would like me to pick up for you?

That would be fine, yes. And thank you, but I've all the supplies I need. I took care to refill my bag when I arrived.

I'll send you along a little something anyways because I want to. What's your favorite chocolate type?

I find dark chocolate particularly delicious.

I have some dark chocolate here that I particularly enjoy. I'll send a few bars your way.

Thank you very much. I'll make good use of it.

Congratulations...

Thank you. Today was rather tiring, but also very productive.

You found homes for... all of them, then?

I have. It seems Feebas are quite popular.

-- Ah! Um, I was going to ask...

Yes? What is it?

Did Leviathan... fight in water, when... she was a Feebas?

She did, whenver she could. But since she hatched in the middle of winter, those instances were not common. Why do you ask?

I... wanted to know, if fighting... when they're not in the water would hurt the fish.

Surprisingly, it does not. It might be less comfortable for them, but they are otherwise fine.

Really...?

Really. Leviathan is out of the water, and she's perfectly fine. See?

[Indeed, Leviathan does not wave like a suffering serpent.]

Mm... I just thought fish would... have a harder time moving...

That would make sense, normally. It makes me wonder how they've adapted to the ground.

I don't know... I don't really want Rai to have to try it.

You could try it next to a pond. This way, if there's a problem, water would be close enough to jump in.

M-mm... I'll try.

I hope Rai will be fine with it. Being unable to train on most roads would be a shame.

He has his own bucket, in case...

That's quite thoughtful of you. Is it large enough to swim in?

Edited 2011-03-15 03:11 (UTC)

[ nodnodnod. ]

It must be very heavy. How do you move it around?

Congratulations, Cecil.

Thank you. Everyone worked very hard today.

You must have trained them well -- I'm sure that you'll continue getting stronger, too.

I've trained most of them for many months, and I intend to do so for some time still. I've only reached the halfway point, after all.

Yes... there are eight badges, aren't there?

...But then what?

...Then we see if those rumors of a way home are true. If they are not, we send the message to other hopefuls and demand answers. If they are, we share that knowledge with everyone else and work toward controlling whatever is responsible, to send people home at will instead of randomly.

... Could I buy an egg, Cecil? [ Staring at Leviathan in wonder now. ]

Of course! Where are you at the moment?

Still in Violet, but me, Roxas, and Namine are about to leave for Ecruteak.

It'll probably reach you within two days, then. Shall I wrap it in a scarf to keep it warm?

[ Nods. ] Okay. Thank you. How should I send the payment?

You can send it back through the delivery Pidgey. They're trained to complete transactions.

[ Nods again, then she looks to Cecil's Milotic. ] How should I raise the Pokemon when it hatches?

From what I can tell, they evolve into Milotic through happiness. Keep it happy, massage it after training, give it good food... Treat it like any other Pokémon, really.

I'll keep that in mind. Thank you, Cecil.

Oh, and congratulations on getting another badge.

Thank you. Everyone trained very hard to obtain it. I'll have to buy them extra treats.

[ Smiles. ] I hope I can catch up to your level someday.

It might take some time, but it's quite possible. It took me a few weeks to get started.

I'll try. I have to catch up to a lot of people.

And all of us have to catch up to the first arrivals.

[ Tilts her head. ] First arrivals?

By the time I arrived, some people had been here for months. At some point, there must have been a first group.

Wow... Do you know anyone who must have been a part of the first group?

I know Firion arrived three months before I did... But he never mentionned whether there had been others first.

Oh... [ She was curious, really, if anyone who came here in the first group managed to become Champion. ]

You could always ask on the network. Someone must remember who came to Johto first.

I could... I do wonder what's the longest time anyone has ever stayed in here is.

I've been in Johto for six months and a half, Firion for three more... A year, perhaps?

[ Have a low "whoa" come from her. ] He must be really knowledgeable about this world?

He was, though there must be others who have had the time to learn even more.

Maybe those others even explored that Kanto region.

If they did, I do hope they'll tell us all about it.

Will you go there, too, someday?

If I have the time to do so. I do have four more badges to earn, and I might have to return for friends from home at any time, after all.

I wish you good luck, then, Cecil. And more thanks. [ Smiles. ]

Thank you. And you're welcome. I hope the two of you will get along.

[ Nods. ] Safe travels.

[ And she cuts the feed. ]

Hm... I've never raised an egg before. How do you do it?
[Guybrush Threepwood, Mighty Pirate... that is his way of saying he wants one.]

You keep it warm and stable for a few days, and after it hatches you raise it just as you would any other Pokémon. It's quite simple, and it allows you to witness your Pokémon's whole development.

[Guybrush is listening, and he writes down a few notes. Hey, you've gotta have notes.] And then I get a giant sea serpent of my own? I'll take one.

It'll become a Milotic after it evolves, yes. Where should I send it?

That'll be sweet. Yours looks powerful.
I'm in Cherrygrove -- so just send it to the Inn there.

It will be done. Should I wrap it in a scarf, to keep it warm?

I would be interested in purchasing an egg, if you still have any available...

I do, in fact. Where would you like me to send it?

Thank you, a water type would be a great addition to my party.

My name is Lion and I'm in Cherrygrove city.

It is a pleasure to meet you, Lion. My name is Cecil. Cecil Harvey. [He bows elegantly.] The egg should reach you in about three days. Would you like me to wrap it in a scarf, to keep it warm?

Pleased to meet you too. [Lion promptly returns the bow in a polite fashion.]

If you could, that would be great, three days of travel are a long time for an egg to travel unprotected.

Indeed. Pokémon are quite resilient, but there is no need to test their limits at such a young age.

Would it be much of a bother if I asked you about the egg's father? I'm sure it would be helpful for my studies on breeding.

Of course not. The father is Seifer, a level 83 Gyarados. I've recently adopted him after his trainer disappeared. Do you need more information?

[And this is Lion, quickly fetching a notebook.] Did any of the parents learn a movement by a Technical Machine?

Leviathan knows Ice Beam; Seifer knows Thunderbolt. Also, when she hatched, Leviathan knew the attack Dragon Breath, but the Pokédex indicated that she should have only known Splash.

I wonder how that will affect the children, then... [Smiles at that.] Thank you very much for the information, mister Harvey.

I will do my best to raise a wonderful pokémon like its parents... Would you like me to let you know about my findings?

You're welcome. I hope it will be useful to you.

I'd appreciate that, thank you. This way, if the two of them have more eggs, I'll know what to expect.

I will let you know as soon as I know anything, then. There seems to be quite a bit to learn about how pokémon inherit abilities from their parents...

True. My Growlithe knew two attacks from his father, when he hatched.

Ah, that's very interesting too. [Aaand Lion is taking notes again.] I suppose there will be much more to see once I start breeding my own pokémon...

Will you share your discoveries with everyone else? Or is it something of a trade secret?

I'll gladly share my findings with whoever wants to listen, but I believe this may end up being more complicated than it seems.

If it was too easy, there'd be no need for people to devote their lives to it.

That much is true. I always welcome a challenging job, so I am glad for it.

It's nice to see so many hard-working people on the network. Too many would use such a peaceful world as an excuse to be lazy.

With so many things to do and learn I'm surprised that someone would choose to stay still... I suppose it's all up to whatever aspirations they have regarding Johto in the end.

Some personalities would not act no matter what. I doubt even Johto could change them. Or perhaps they await spring and warmer weather.

That's true... I am awaiting spring myself, but the idea of sitting still while doing so horrifies me. [Chuckles.]

To be honest, my first month or so was rather inactive, though it was not exactly my choice. But the memory of it is enough to make me move, these days.

Getting used to a new place after being brought so abruptly always takes a little time... And many have had problems like illnesses or the weather, so it's only understandable.

You could say it was illness, yes. I fear I greatly neglected Rosie's training because of it, at first.

But it shows that you are making up for the lost time now.

I try my best. A few of my Pokémon are over level 70 now.

How long have you been here, mister Harvey?

Nearly six months and a half. I've had to time to see many people arrive and leave, sometimes more than once.

That's a very long time... I have only been here for about two months, and I can see that weekly arrivals and sudden departures appear to be the norm.

One of my friends arrived three months before I did, though he's since left. From what I can remember, that pattern was only broken once.

Was it? Can you tell me about that time?

At the end of November, we had two waves of newcomers in the same week. After that, no one appeared until the second week of December. And during that interval, there were three days that no one could remember, save for some very strange dreams.

That's very strange. I have heard of strange things happening to all of Johto from someone else... But those appear to be sporadic occurrences, am I correct?

You are. Strange incidents take place approximatively once a month. ...Though January and February were surprisingly calm.

I see... I was fortunate to arrive in such calm months. I still wonder what kind of powers are behind all of this.

We've been asking ourselves that very question for many months. None have yet found an answer to it.

Hopefully there will be an answer someday... Meanwhile I suppose that it's healthier to just make the best out of the time spent here.

It is. None of us have been able to predict those events, except perhaps for the one in October. Always being wary of the next one would become tiring quite swiftly.

And considering that this world doesn't seem to be that hostile on us, it would also be pointless.

I'd say the wildlife can be hostile to us, when it wishes to be. You've not met the Sudowoodo, have you?

Ah, yes, it can be hostile, but I also believe it could be much worse if it really wanted to...

I haven't met the Sudowoodo yet.

True. The local monsters are kind enough not to attempt to kill us.

Consider yourself lucky. It does not like visitors.

We have to look at the small blessings sometimes.

How does it look? Just so I can be careful with it.

It looks like a tree made of stone, in the middle of the part between Violet, Goldenrod and Ecruteak. You cannot miss it.

Oh, I remember hearing about the tree... I didn't know it had a name too or how it looked. I'll be careful with it, thank you.

You're welcome. If you travel in that region, be certain to ask someone with the Plain badge to accompany you. We've all obtained an item that allows us to move the tree.

I will make sure of it, thank you for the advice once again. I am certain it will be useful.

Edited 2011-03-16 14:03 (UTC)

I hope it will be. I've never heard of the Sudowoodo changing its habits, but you never know.

I've been taking so much of your time and you still have some eggs to find homes for... [Smiles.] It was great talking to you, mister Harvey, I hope we can do it again in the future.

It would be my pleasure to speak with you once more. Please, send news of the egg, once it hatches.

I will let you know as soon as it hatches.

Thank you very much. Leviathan will be glad to hear from it.

I will keep you two up to date on our advances too. Have a great day.

Thank you!

Excuse me, sir--if I could--

[ Levianthan is *gorgeous*. ]

What kind of pokemon is that?

Leviathan is a Milotic, which evolves from a Feebas. She's a Water-type. Leviathan, if you'd please?

[At Cecil's request, she starts moving around so Watanuki can look at her from all angles.]

[[ ooc. I'd rather have Watanuki not know what a Feebas looks like, if that's possible? So if Cecil could gloss over that, it'd be great.<3 ]]

Why, she's beautiful! A water-type?

That's right. Considering some cities can only be accessed by water routes, she'll be quite helpful.

[[ooc: That was Cecil's plan from the beginning. There's a reason why he said they were Milotic eggs~.]]

I'm glad to hear that--I'm definitely interested. Are there any left?

There are a few, yes. Where should I send it?

The Cherrygrove pokemon center, if you don't mind. I'll send the money over right away.

Very well. Would you like me to wrap it in a scarf, to keep it warm?

Oh, that's a smart idea. I'll definitely think of it, the next time I have eggs. Thank you, sir...?

My name is Cecil. Cecil Harvey. [He bows elegantly.] It is a pleasure to meet you. Are you a breeder, then?

It's nice to meet you as well, Harvey-san. And yes, or well, I'm supposed to be.

Good luck with that, then. What sorts of egg did you previously breed?

Oh! Leviathan's a parent! How wonderful!

[Leviathan uses her tail to wave happily and show off the eggs. Aren't they beautiful?]

Thank you. She's quite proud of her eggs, I believe.

They're all lovely! Do be sure to find good homes for them.

I will. They all deserve good trainers that will respect and cherish them.

Yes. And I'm sure Levianthan would be happy if you gave them to your friends. That way she'll be able to see her babies often when you speak to them.

For some reason, few of my friends seemed interested. Perhaps they have too many Pokémon to take care of.

[Or perhaps they know what Feebas looks like.]

How strange! I can't imagine why they wouldn't want to have an adorable baby even if they do have many Pokemon I'm sure another couldn't hurt!

Some of them are handfuls, I have to admit. They might not want to risk being distracted by too many younger Pokémon, or to put them away in storage.

_{[Iris giggles.]} I suppose they can be.

How considerate of them! I hadn't thought about it that way!

I have to admit, having to store Pokémon away saddens me. But with all the little and lost ones, I have no choice.

_{[Iris nods.]} Sometimes, you have no choice. When you have a lot of Pokemon, it's hard to give them the individual attention they need.

It's like having many children, really. Not everyone can take care of dozens at the same time.

_{[She smiles.]} Yes, children are quite lovely, but I don't think I could deal with quite so many!

I'd not mind it, I think, but having so many siblings would not make every child happy.

I suppose I'll take one off your hands.

That would be very kind of you. Where should I send it?

Goldenrod City, I'll send a transaction there.

You'll receive your egg within the next few days. Should I wrap it in a scarf, to keep it warm?

If you think it'll be for the best.

Very well. I hope the two of you will get along well, Miss...?

Name is Rouge. Will this one start in a different form?

It will, but as long as you treat it well, it should become a Milotic after two months or three.

I suppose it means that it's not about leveling.

[He nods.]

Happiness, I believe. My Clefairy's evolution was much the same.

Happiness, right.

I don't believe I caught your name yet.

My name is Cecil. Cecil Harvey. [He bows elegantly.] It is a pleasure to meet you.

Same here. Well then Cecil, thanks for the egg.

You're welcome. I hope its personality will suit you well.

Me too.

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