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Post by Devereux Abremont on Sept 21, 2024 7:32:15 GMT
> Hey, Dev! :D
> Just giving you a heads up, my friend and PA is coming by to get a starter, scheduled tomorrow. She is also terrified of Pokemon… please give her the gentlest nicest one you can otherwise she might faint thx bless
It was a short heads up, but for someone like Devereux, that’s all he needed. Dev had spent the entire afternoon and evening at the lab with one of the lab assistants, simply going through the database of available Pokemon, weeding out potential candidates one by one via size, personality, color, shape, potential intimidation, ease of care… and when work was done and Dev had sent the assistant home, he made himself a pot of coffee and sat down, Litten in his lap, and had gone over the entire thing again – this time with the added references and questions from a back and forth with his friend Takara – well into the wee hours of the night.
And now, it is morning. The day of. Showtime! Devereux – Dr. Abremont, maybe one day Professor Abremont – has done these appointments before. Especially after Professor Yew’s passing, when things had become quite short staffed for a time… but it is always no less exciting for him, just as joyful as the first time, to see a trainer bond with their very first Pokemon and start a new chapter of their life.
This one in particular is very special and very important indeed, and requires the utmost care! Dev adjusts his lab coat one more time, nodding to himself, before picking up the clipboard, running his eyes down the list of names, and smiling brightly.
The Laboratory Lobby has seen quite the influx of trainers lately, especially since that new DNN show So You Wanna Be a Master!? had started airing on Mootube. Lots of young aspirants who will hopefully be taught right. But this bright and early and crisp in the morning, only the early birds and the anxious can be seen milling the lobby. “Good morning,” Devereux calls out to the lobby, leaning against the front counter. “Miss Jessica Valeria? We’re ready to see you now, whenever you’re ready.”
What kind of Pokemon are you, how do you do the things you do?
Ready to meet a pal or six inside!?
What kind of Pokemon are you, are you loyal through and through?
Do you have a heart that's true?
Let's find a Pokemon for you!
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Post by Jessica Valeria on Sept 21, 2024 23:02:53 GMT
"Look, he said to his imagination, if this is how you're going to behave, I shan't bring you again." -Terry Pratchett, Going Postal Better safe than sorry
"This is! Not very! Pragmatic!" Takara grumbled as he tried to pull Jessica out of the car. "I mean! Really! You're a grown woman, Jess!"
Jess, who was clinging to the passenger seat for dear life, did not care. "I changed my mind! I'm not going!" She cried. She tried to kick Takara off. He used the chance to grab her legs to finally yank her out of the car. She face planted on the cement. "Ow..."
"I told you that'd happen..." Takara helped her up and quickly shut the door and locked the car. "Jess, this is pathetic..."
"I'd rather be pathetic than dead!" She cried out, currently in her "trainer clothes" as Takara called them. He never went out looking for pokemon in his office attire and he didn't expect her to do so either. At least Farrah had helped pick them out so Jess had to admit she did look cute but that was besides the point.
Takara handed her a bag filled with supplies and gave her a disappointed look. "A starter pokemon can't kill you... well, I guess there are a few that can, really all pokemon if you think about it, but-" he immediately stopped as Jess began to sniffle, shaking in her tennis shoes. "I- I mean! Not very likely!! Nope! No death at all! Impossible!"
"I DON'T BELIEVE YOOOUUUUU!" Jess sobbed, clutching her bag to her chest. Takara gave a sigh, fully aware there were some very eager kids who had dragged their parents out of bed at the crack of dawn to come to be first in line. Farrah's participation in So You Wanna Be a Master!? really had everyone out in droves! Takara had actually sat down to watch it with Jess last night before this trip. She had slept over at his place to spend more time with his pokemon and get used to them. Usually, he'd have Cassiel out to calm her but it was best not to have him in public around so many people. He wasn't there yet. Hera was in the backseat and had managed to figure out how to unlock the car and get out. The Chansey handed Jess an egg.
"Is it poisoned?" she asked sadly as she took the egg. "Because I'd like to die right now."
"Jess."
"Takara, I can't!!"
Her friend sighed. "I know you can. I believe in you, Jess, I do. Believe me. This will be really good for you. Dev's in there right now and he's going to make sure you're well taken care of. Now... I have to get back to the office. They're voting on the benefits package and I refuse to let them fuck everyone in the company over. Can I trust you to stay here and get a pokemon?"
"No." Jess sniffed as he gave her another look. Stay strong, Jess, she told herself as Takara stared at her. Their gaze was gentle but intense. Stay strong!! She felt her lip tremble. "Fine! Yes! Okay! I'll get a pokemon!"
Some nearby kids started to clap for her. This did not make her feel better.
She sniffed. "It's just... those people I met back in town told me about how dangerous pokemon are and all and how them being back is a bad thing and-"
"Jess," Takara said firmly. "Those people are fucking crazy."
"Language!" Some woman shouted.
"Excuse me! I am trying to have a private conversation! Go, shoo!" He shook his head. "Fuckin'... Jess, those people are wrong and a fucking cult. And you were so excited last night!"
"W-what if I get a pokemon that HATES me?" She sobbed again. "It'll claw my face off!"
"That will not happen... Devereux will be sure of that, alright? Okay? Eat Hera's egg and maybe you'll calm down."
She nibbled the Chansey egg. "It's very good, Hera," she sniffled. The Chansey gave a happy smile and a nod. She hugged Jessica's leg to try and help soothe her worried soul.
"Okay, I gotta go. Good luck. And I'll know if you chicken out. I wanna hear all about it later. And enjoy your vacation!" He pats her shoulders and runs off, Hera jumping back in the car as Takara screeches down the road. Jess watched him leave. She sniffed again.
She looked down as a snotty child tugged on her jacket. "Are you here getting a pokemon?" he asked. She nodded. "Are you a weenie?" She nodded again. "I'll go in with you!"
And that was that. The child lead her inside who was about 5 years old? Maybe? She didn't understand kids. "You can sit here! They have seats! For sitting!"
She sat down as if she has been ordered. She looked at the kid. "Are you here for a pokemon?"
"No, my brother is. He's 11." He stuck his finger in his nose. Jess stared straight ahead and the child ran off back to his family. Seems only about four people were waiting, including her.
The lab was nice. It was clean. It was quiet. There were no murderous pokemon around trying to rip her face off or anything so that was a good start! Maybe this wouldn't be so bad... Takara and Farrah's pokemon were all so nice (except Takara's Crowley, the little monster) so... maybe? And she would have help, sure! It wasn't like she'd have to figure this all out on her own or anything! Maybe a pet would be... nice....
As she tried to calm down, her name was called. Jess jumped up as if she was going to run for the door, but stopped herself. Takara would know if she turned tail and that was not a conversation she wanted to have. He was a sweet guy and a good friend, but he was very... forceful in his own unique way. And this was something he felt she had to do. She turned around, holding her bag so she didn't betray how badly she was shaking.
Her voice was stuck in her throat, but she was able to squeak out a "H-here!"
Oh! Was this Takara's friend? She had helped to some research before they first met, but didn't actually know all that much about him. Takara's words were only solid praise. She took in a few deep breaths, that snotty child giving her a thumbs up. Well, if the children weren't afraid and the parents felt giving them a face eating monster was acceptable then...
Jessica meekly walked up to the counter. "D-Dr. Devereux?" she asked meekly. "I'm Jess, I mean Jessica. I mean Valeria. I'm ready..." the amount of confidence in her voice would be what happened if you managed to divide by zero.
"She's a weenie!" the kid called. His mother clamped a hand over his mouth. Jess did not argue because it was true. She was a strong person who could hold her own but in the face of pokemon she was... a weenie.
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Post by Devereux Abremont on Sept 22, 2024 9:14:33 GMT
Devereux watches with a curious expression, this young woman who springs up as if shot, like the Bunnelby who has encountered the Nickit. He watches her turn, so incredibly slowly, clutching to her bag as if it is the only thing keeping her alive. For a moment, the way she looks up at him, squeaking, he wonders if he must be the firing squad, here to carry out an execution. It’s such a silly, inane thought.
…He’s more of a guillotine man, really.
Ah, but gallows humor aside – he smiles warmly at the young lady, the crinkle of the expression showing the laugh lines at the corner of his right eye. The left cannot emote quite as much, on account of the years-old burn scar etched across it and his cheekbone, but the softness of the expression is somehow conveyed nonetheless. Devereux wants nothing more than for this to be a good and positive experience. No fear. No pain. He glances up at the sound of the child yelling across the lobby, and tuts gently with an amused purse of his lips.
“Jess, then, if I may?” He murmurs, “Right this way. It’s quite alright, take your time.” He offers a comforting hand upon her shaking shoulder, warm to the touch as he guides her through the door and into the laboratory hallway. “Just Dev is fine, I don’t mind. May I tell you something?”
He winks conspiratorially, and despite his towering stature of seven feet, manages to stoop down to Jess’ level with a surprising amount of delicate grace while walking. “I was terrified too, you see, when I first got my own partner Pokemon. It’s such an easy thing to get into your own head, right? What will they be like? Will they like me? Hate me? So many thoughts that they get into an overwhelming tizzy. I understand. And it’s okay, you know. To be afraid? My dear, it doesn’t make you a weenie. It’s a big life change – to a small child, that’s a Tuesday. At our age, it’s – well, any life change can be intimidating. But it’s going to be just fine. You aren’t alone, Jess. Take a slow deep breath for me, okay? There you go.”
Dev coasts to a stop in front of the door to the observation room, and unlocks the door for the both of them with a flash of his ID, sliding it gently open. The room is surprisingly furnished: a comfortable couch laden with cushions, with a long wood coffee table in front of it, plush Pokeball-patterned rug underneath. There’s a tray on the table, upon which sits a pretty if plain teapot. There is a cup next to it – already filled and still hot, steam lifting gently from the rim of the cup. A basket full of Pokemon toys sits next to the side of the couch, and across the room is a myriad of perches and shelves to climb on, beds, perches, scratching posts – a veritable Pokemon jungle gym. And at the back of the room is the large machine, its glossy LED display in standby mode, stocked with Pokeballs with a row of six slots, empty and ready to be filled, lined across the machine next to the display. “It’s chamomile,” Dev says sheepishly. “I hope you don’t mind. Thought it might help with the nerves. Please, make yourself comfortable.”
He ushers Jess into the room, towards the couch, as he busies himself with the machine for a moment, logging in his credentials and pulling up the database. When that’s done, he sets the clipboard on its hook and turns to face the trainer-to-be once more. “So! Takara told me a little bit about your situation. I understand there’s a fear of Pokemon – and I promise you, you’ve nothing to fear here. This is a safe space – every single Pokemon available today has been vetted personally by myself. There are no wildcards, nothing scary, nothing dangerous. There’s no time limit. Feel free to take as much time as you need, interact however you feel most comfortable. I’m right here with you the entire time, okay? I’ll answer any question, no matter how silly you might think it to be. One more deep breath for me? … Excellent. Thank you. Let’s get to it, hm?” Devereux nods to Jess before turning back to the machine, scanning his ID once more, and pressing confirm. Whirring to life with a gentle hum, the PC lights up, before scanning and depositing six Pokeballs into the open slots. He picks the first up, and offers her one more gentle smile, before releasing the Pokemon.
The first Pokemon is barely a little scrap of fluff. Big sweet eyes with a little nose on a fluffy face, too-big ears, and a little fluffy tail wagging a mile a minute. It looks around, and once it’s eyes meet Jess’, it offers a happy little yip of greeting. “Lillipup,” Devereux observes. “The Puppy Pokemon, a normal type. A very brave and intelligent species, once historically raised to be nannies for small children. Extremely easy to raise, and very loyal!”
The second Pokeball reveals… a star? The brown, star-shaped Pokemon is an odd one, with no discernable face save for the brilliant red core in the center of its body, which glitters and pulses with a soft hue. It tilts gently from side to side, but remains quiet and passive, otherwise. “Staryu – the Star Shape Pokemon. A water type! Supposedly, they communicate with the stars with their flashing core. In the wild, they’re pretty docile – fish Pokemon are known to nibble at them, but their bodies regenerate remarkably fast, so they’re quite low maintenance, really…”
The third Pokemon makes Devereux smile fondly. It is a cat, with silky dark purple and cream fur and brilliant green eyes. It hops onto the edge of the couch immediately and makes itself comfy with a little trilling meow. “Purrloin – the Devious Pokemon, though there’s nothing devious about this sweetheart. A dark type – they’re known for hiding away their trainers’ things for fun, but between you and me, the thing this little one likes to steal the most are some extra scratches behind the ear. Forgive me, I’ve a soft spot for cat Pokemon – my own partner is a Litten.”
Clearing his throat with an embarrassed smile, Devereux picks up the fourth Pokemon and releases it. The Pokemon within is a little bigger than the others; that said, rather than anything intimidating, it quite resembles an oversized pudgy dumpling. It yawns, and stretches out it’s glovelike blue hands, before waving at Jess with a little smile. “Makuhita! The Guts Pokemon, a fighting type. They’re remarkably tenacious little Pokemon that never lose spirit. They love eating, sleeping, and being athletic. They get significantly bigger when they evolve, but no less good-natured.”
The fifth Pokemon… doesn’t move, for a moment, simply floating in the air with it’s long tail swaying gently below it. “You awake, bud?” Dev nudges it slightly, and the Pokemon makes a soft noise, drifting over a few inches and slowly sinking to sit on the floor next to the coffee table. “It can be really hard to tell with Abra. They sleep up to 18 hours a day. But they’re with us! This is Abra – the Psi Pokemon. It sleeps so long because, as a psychic type, it is immensely intelligent, and uses that psychic power very frequently.”
One last Pokemon. Devereux picks the Pokeball up, and releases it. The little creature within makes a high pitched adorable squeak noise, shaking it’s short dark blue and cream fur out. As it does so, little embers that look like quills shake off from it’s back until it settles, sniffing at Jess curiously. “Ah! Cyndaquil. The fire mouse Pokemon – a very traditional starter in the Johto region. They tend to be quite timid, and if frightened, they will flare up their back with little flames. Now – this little one will eventually grow into a much bigger, fierce looking Pokemon – but they are ferociously loyal and loving to their trainers, you would have nothing to fear from it. Plus, they make very nice warm cuddlebugs on cold nights.”
With all six Pokemon released -- and notably, all wearing little yellow and orange patterned bandanas -- Devereux offers a soft look, before gently stepping around the Pokemon to perch on one of the far ends of the couch – nearby, while still giving plenty of space. “Take your time, Jess. None of them are going to hurt you. They’re all incredibly sweet, I promise. If there’s any questions at all I can answer, I’m right here with you the entire time.”
 |  |  |  |  |  | | Lillipup | Staryu | Purrloin | Makuhita | Abra | Cyndaquil |
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Post by Jessica Valeria on Sept 22, 2024 19:20:02 GMT
"Look, he said to his imagination, if this is how you're going to behave, I shan't bring you again." -Terry Pratchett, Going Postal Better safe than sorry
Jessica took in a breath, finally being able to meet the famed Devereux that Takara talked about so much. According to them, this man was a pokemon professional, kind-hearted. There was nothing to fear, and she did believe it when looking at this towering figure. He was handsome, well-spoken, and surely a real expert like Takara always talked about. That didn't stop the well of anxiety in her chest though, but it did make her feel a little better. Jessica gave a firm little nod, but she didn't much feel like she could form words right now.
She lets him lead her through the door and deeper into the lab, taking comfort in the kind touch. She sniffles as they walked, listening very carefully to his words. The smooth, deeper voice was oddly comforting at this time. She felt better at her words, knowing she wasn't alone in being afraid or all the unanswered questions. She did as told and took in a deep shaking breath and let it out, coming to a stop at the next room.
It looked very nice, very comfortable. She didn't imagine a lab would have such an area as this--having originally thought it was a cold research facility and nothing more--but it made sense. Pokemon were living things and surely some braver people than her would want to see what the pokemon could do. But what really impressed her was the tea. For the first time, Jess' shoulders dropped a bit and she gave a small smile to Dr. D-, Dev. "Thank you! I really appreciate it..." she moved into the room and sat down on the couch, gladly holding the warm cup. She took in a few breaths and sipped it.
Ground yourself, be in the here and now. Warm cup, comfortable couch. The smell of the lab. Pokemon waiting to tear your face off. Jess tried her best to hold her hands steady. Thankfully Dev distracted her and she eagerly listened. Of course Takara had updated the lab--especially Dev--on her situation. Fear of pokemon was not unheard of in Deprin after pokemon came back so suddenly, but Jessica's fear was... a little extreme. And the people she had met in the city sure didn't help matters either. But everything they said just sounded so true but... well... Takara's pokemon weren't murderous. And as awful as the little Impidimp Crowley was he wasn't meaning to hurt anyone, just cause stress. He feasted on her stress a lot, but he never pushed it too far. Once he had made her cry and brought her some flowers (torn up from the gardens outside) as an apology. It was sweet and...
Jessica took in a deep breath and nodded. "I'm ready..." she said weekly, holding the tea cup tight in her hands. She had to have trust in Devereux. To believe that this man really did mean what he said. Nothing here would hurt her, she was safe. The pokemon were all hand picked right? So they would all be very sweet and gentle and nice. She stiffened as the first pokeball was picked up and tried to offer a smile back but all that came out was a terrified grimace. She recoiled at the flash of the light, waiting for the sweet release of death. But none came. She peeked open an eye to see.... a little puppy with an adorable yellow and orange bandana. Oh! Her favorite colors... did Devereux do that? She slowly tried to relax, still clutching the warm tea cup.
The little yip of the pup was adorable and it looked very cute. Not horribly murderous. The ears were so cute. "For small children?" Jess asked. "So.... people trusted this pokemon near their kids?" That was... reassuring. Surely if a pokemon could be around a child then it was safe... right? Then again, she listened to a lot of true crime and you can't always trust those babysitters.
The next pokemon was... Jess sniffled and tilted her head. She listened carefully. Low maintenance sounded good, but... this thing didn't look like it was alive. But it did seem to move and that gem looked intelligent somehow. But there was a problem: she was terrified of the water. The amount of ship crashes and unsolved disappearances out there at sea? And having a pokemon that needed to swim? Nightmare.
She perked up a little at the mention of a cat. She did like cats! Takara had a Glameow--Colbat--that was very sweet and- Jess jumped a bit when the Purrloin made itself comfortable on the couch. She had recoiled as if she was going to be scratched, but slowly relaxed as that was not the case. "I've... I've heard of Litten!" She says, eyeing the cat very wearily. Sharp claws and teeth. Cats were known to be temperamental but this one seemed okay.
The next one that came out actually got a little smile out of Jess. It looked rather cute, just like a drop of pudding! And that bright yellow color! She gave a tiny wave back. A fighting type pokemon... did that mean it wanted to punch things? Punch her? Probably not... but it looked really calm. However, the thought of it getting bigger terrified her. Yes, she knew pokemon evolved and often grew in size. She remembered Shri was a little riolu and then growing several feet taller--to the point she could pick up Takara with no worries. But then Orion, the Kirlia, didn't grow too terribly big...
The Abra was fascinating thing to behold with floating, but Jessica wondered if a fiercely intelligent pokemon was a good pick. But sleeping for so long meant she could get plenty of space away from it as she needed. Though would that be fair to the pokemon? Maybe it'd enjoy nap time at the office... floating there while there worked, not being too in the way, her dragging its floating form back home... was that appropriate? She gave another sip of her tea.
So far nothing bad had happened. She was feeling a little more relaxed.
Then the fire came out. She let out a little frightened squeak, but soon calmed as she saw it wasn't enough to set the place on fire. And the little mouse was adorable. Akin to an elephant mouse she had read about in one of her adventure novels back home--Bluewall. It took place in a magical world where pokemon were not a thing but there were animals that acted like people going on adventures. Maybe the inspiration for the elephant mouse in that world was this little guy? Cuddles also sounded nice, she did hate being too cold...
Jessica looked at all the pokemon carefully before looking to Dev with large, doe-like eyes. "I... okay... um..." she took in a few more deep breaths and put the tea cup down. She wrung her hands a bit and looked at them all carefully.
"Is it... I mean has anyone..." she took in another breath. "Has anyone made the wrong choice? I mean... they choose a pokemon and it dislikes them after? Or h-hurts..." she clammed up. There were no stupid questions but she felt stupid asking it. Takara had told her that making the wrong choice wasn't really possible. There would be a real connection between her and the pokemon but she didn't see that connection right now. Did any of them like her? Would they like her? They were all very calm and so far gentle and that was very nice, but would they be after she took them home? Or, more accurately, back to Takara's to introduce her new starter so he could get her some supplies fit for the pokemon?
"I don't... I don't want to mess up..."
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Post by Devereux Abremont on Sept 24, 2024 10:12:29 GMT
Devereux watches the entire time, ever careful, ever observant for any particularly bad reactions. He knows, knows, that the Pokemon themselves won’t have any. Afterall, every single one of them have been vetted multiple times, both by techs and himself, for non-violent or non-turbulent personalities above all else. And even if any of the Pokemon were in a particularly bad mood or showed any signs of being less than ideal as a choice… the, ah… “barrette” keeping his hair out of his eyes would certainly let him know.
“Mm,” he makes a soft noise of agreement. “Yes – Lillipup were, and are, known for being very good first Pokemon for children, and their evolved forms were trusted as nannies, guardian animals, and family pets. I’m sure the same can be said of now too, but… you know. It’s only been a few years since they’ve been back, so the sample size of infants and family Pokemon is… ehh, still relatively small, no?”
He keeps a particular eye on the Cyndaquil, watching between Jess and the fire-type as soon as he hears the squeak of fear. But when the mouse Pokemon simply plops itself down to give itself a good itch with it’s little backfoot, he relaxes his shoulders. His little ‘alerter’ offers him no warnings, either. All is well, then. Good! Jess looks up to Dev and he offers a sweet smile back, nodding in encouragement but not pushing nor rushing her words.
As he listens, he tilts his head, thinking. His hand idly reaches down to the Purrloin on the couch, gently scritching behind the little cat’s ears ‘til it starts purring. “Has anyone made the wrong choice… hmm. Well, let me contextualize it with this – not from the lab, here, no.” Dev makes eye contact again, simply taking in Jess’ body language, and hums. “There have been trainers who come to the lab already with a Pokemon that have had problems, occasionally. Folks who are unprepared – and I mean wholly unprepared, so not like you – and we do our best to help them. But in the fair handful of years I’ve been working at the Mistveil Lab…? No, I have never seen a new trainer attacked by their chosen partner.”
Devereux reaches over to pick up a misting bottle from the table, and clicks his tongue, gesturing gently. The Staryu finally comes to life, swaying back and back on it’s strange feet before drawing nearer and dancing happily when Dev mists it with the bottle, red core flickering with warm light. “There’s no messing up. I promise you that. Every single Pokemon is different – they all have their own stories, their own personalities, their own little quirks. No different to you or I. My Litten – Ahihaka – chose me. I was going to go home with an Eevee; I still remember it so clearly. I was sitting there on the floor, watching them play, interacting, talking, asking questions… I had a Comfey on my head, and I was watching the Eevee and a Totodile wrestle and play. And there was this little Litten; tiny little thing. Wouldn’t even give me the time of day or look at me. I wrote it off entirely – alright, not compatible then, right? But eventually, I thought – okay. The Eevee is this sweet, playful little thing. And I opened my mouth to choose – and suddenly, there was that Litten. Walked right up, climbed into my lap, put her paws on my chest… and let out the squeakiest little meow you’ve ever heard. Absolutely would not move until I relented. And now she sasses me if I’m five minutes late for breakfast, and curls up snuggled right here,” he sets the mist bottle down and gestures to the crook of his neck, just under his chin, “Every single night. Now, would I have been happy if I’d chosen the Eevee? Sure, and likely any of the others, too. There’s no mistakes. No wrong choice. They would’ve all been great – and just the same is true for any of the six here today.”
He relents in his scritches to the Purrloin to reach over and squeeze Jess’ forearm. “I swear to you, none of these Pokemon will hurt you – and they won’t dislike you, either. There’s something… I don’t know how to explain it. I just know you’re gonna be just fine. Whoever you choose, I just know that Pokemon’s gonna love you. Call it a silly man’s intuition if you must, but I see six little faces here all eager and curious, and I see you, and I can just feel it; on the data, no, I’ve never seen someone make a wrong choice, and I’ve never seen someone hated by their partner. And emotionally? There’s still no wrong choice. Every single potential friendship here could be beautiful. There’s six different friendships, different stories, waiting to be written, and none of them are bad. Like with a lot of good things… sometimes, it’s just a little leap of faith.”
What kind of Pokemon are you, how do you do the things you do?
Six pals rarin' to go outside!
What kind of Pokemon are you, are you loyal through and through?
Do you have a heart that's true?
What kind of partner will you choose~?
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Post by Jessica Valeria on Sept 24, 2024 22:48:52 GMT
"Look, he said to his imagination, if this is how you're going to behave, I shan't bring you again." -Terry Pratchett, Going Postal Better safe than sorry
Six stories. Six different paths. None of them bad, just each unique and different. She thought about Dr. Devereux said and looked at each pokemon in turn very carefully. On one hand, it was exciting to make a choice, on the other, she would feel bad for the pokemon left behind. But there were children out there right now waiting for their own partner pokemon to have an adventure with and she was sure these pokemon would all find someone good for them. Now the question was... which pokemon was good for her? Part of her wanted to be confident and to get up and walk around, carefully inspecting each pokemon, but she felt frozen where she was. Too scared to even pet the cat next to her. So stupid, she thought to herself, all these pokemon were so nice and you're too cowardly to get up and pick one! It was overwhelming as she debated her choices. A sleepy pokemon, a fire mouse, a starfish, a cat? A puppy? The fighting type? Jess wrung her hands and took in a deep breath. She was about to speak when the Lillipup gave a yip and ran off into the jungle gym. She deflated a bit. Oh, well... that made it easier she supposed. Pokemon could of course reject a trainer, it was in their right. Takara had explained it to her. Capturing a pokemon was a sign that the pokemon respected you enough for capture. No pokemon could be caught that didn't agree to it. Starters were the same. Looking back at the choices, she found herself gravitating a bit to the Makuhita and Abra. The Staryu was... interesting but Jess wasn't sure she could provide a good environment for it at the office. The Purrloin was also nice, but while Jess liked cats she just... it didn't feel right for her. Cats were not as low maintenance as people thought and they required just as much effort as a dog. But any pokemon would require love and care. Even Staryu. Jessica took in another breath. "I think..." she said softly, looking between the Abra and Makuhita. A squeaking sound interrupted her. The Lillipup ran out from the jungle gym with a squeaky bone they had hidden inside, chewing on it with a playful ferocity. The Lillipup ran over to the couch and tried to jump up. Their small body struggled to make it all the way up and they fell over about three times before the Abra raised a hand, extending some psychic power to help the puppy up. With a squeak of thanks, the puppy dropped the slobbery bone in Jess' lap and gave another yip. They jumped off the couch and ran back into the jungle gym. Jessica was a little shocked, having frozen up at the sudden close contact and the floating puppy. She looked down. The squeaky-bone was a bright orange. Another little yip and now the puppy was dragging a pokeball pattern blanket with it. They tripped over it several times and wagged their little tail as the Abra once more lifted them onto the couch. With a triumphant presentation, Lillipup dropped the blanket into Jessica's lap, too. Tail wagging like a jet engine, threatening to knock the puppy over as they gave another yip and put a paw on Jessica's leg. She stared at the puppy for a long time. Unmoving, unblinking. One might even think she's stopped breathing. After a long moment, she finally squeaked out, "Do you want to... come with me?" It was a question filled with shock and disbelief. The Lillipup gave another happy bark and spun around, falling over before happily getting up again and crawling into Jess' lap with their favorite toy and favorite blanket they had hidden in this room of the lab ages ago. It was as if the puppy was saying 'Lets go home!' Jess felt tears well up in her eyes from sudden relief. She did love dogs... Takara's dogs were so nice between Shri and that precious little Cassiel who wouldn't hurt a fly. She kinda understood them. They needed walks instead of a litter box, but playtime like cats nonetheless. And Jess loved to take long walks. "Can I have this one?" She asked while trying so hard not to cry. Was she terrified? Yes. But this thing could fit in a purse and that made her feel so much better than something larger or anything that could set her house on fire. Maybe this would be a good start for her? At least as an attempt?
Jessica chooses Lillipup! |
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Post by Devereux Abremont on Sept 25, 2024 9:13:44 GMT
The joy that lifts Devereux’s heart feels almost palpable, watching this bond unfold in front of him. He could feel the start of something as soon as the Lillipup ran off, little tail as much of a blur as they were. He tilts his head just so, so that the barrette in his hair faces out to get a vantage point to watch from, and simply observes. The way that Jess deflates as the pup disappears makes his smile widen a little more. There it is, he thinks. Right on cue, there’s that bond. Alright then, let’s see what happens.
He leans forward with intrigue, pressing his palms together as Jess speaks up, on the verge of choosing… and here the Lillipup comes at mach force. The laugh lines become visible at the corners of Devereux’s eyes as the Abra helps it up. That’s one of the most beautiful things, he has to imagine: he’s never once seen hard feelings between the groups of Pokemon. Every single time, he’s seen the other five react with nothing but enthusiasm and joy; perhaps it is the faith and knowledge that they will all be chosen, eventually. Perhaps it is just their good natures. He couldn’t say. But Dev knows, watching this group of Pokemon cheer the little Lillipup’s enthusiasm on, that this is a good crew who wouldn’t be happier.
Dev chuckles as the Lillipup knocks itself over before crawling into Jess’ lap. He doesn’t feel the need to comment, so he simply smacks his thighs and stands up with a nod, walking back over to the machine. He fist-bumps with the Makuhita as he goes by, winking, and picks up Lillipup’s Pokeball, and the clipboard off the machine. Check, check, marked, and… check. As he walks back, Jess asks her question – that beautiful, magnificent, once in a life question.
And his response is to press the Pokeball gently into her hand with a little grin, nodding, that knowing look in his blue eyes. “They’re all yours, Jess. A perfect match made to be, I believe. Congratulations – you are officially a Pokemon trainer with your very first Pokemon. You should be real darn proud of yourself. I know I am – and so are we all, right team?”
The rest of the other five Pokemon cheer raucously. Dev nods, and tucks the clipboard under his arm. “Well, the blankie and the toy are Lillipup’s, so those are yours to take. You’re ready to start your new story with your lil’ pup, my dear. I can get you set up at the front desk whenever you’re ready, but take your time. We’ll get you your trainer ID, dex registration, Lillipup’s files, and your trainer care kit. And then you’re free to go! It’ll be a bit to take with you, but it’ll make sure you’re as prepped as can be. And my number too, yeah? If you’ve ever got any questions, I’ll make time. And I want to hear how you two are doing!”
CONGRATULATIONS! You now have achieved your Starter Pokemon and this character may now be considered a full fledged trainer to play on site as you wish! Here is your Lillipup's statblock -- be sure to add it as a new post to your tracker, and keep a copy of the statblock in raw format (between [ code ] tags) for mod usage. As a note, while it has been randomly rolled, you may decide what the gender of your starter Pokemon is, so you can change it if you like! When you feel like wrapping up the thread, as it may be considered complete now, mark it as finished, and it will be archived and yourself awarded EXP! Lillipup // Level 1 // Female | Max HP | Attack | Defense | Speed | | 9 | 9 | 9 | 11 |
Vital Spirit - prevents Lillipup from falling asleep. In addition, wild encounters are more likely to be higher level. Held item: None Moves: Leer, Tackle, Lick [img style="max-width:100%;max-height:200px;" alt="Lillipup" src="https://www.serebii.net/art/th/506.png"]
[a href="https://pokemondb.net/pokedex/lillipup"]Lillipup[/a] // Level 1 // Female
[table][tbody][tr][td align="center" style="padding:3px;"][b]Max HP[/b][/td]
[td align="center" style="padding:3px;"][b]Attack[/b][/td]
[td align="center" style="padding:3px;"][b]Defense[/b][/td]
[td style="padding:3px;" align="center"][b]Speed[/b][/td][/tr]
[tr][td style="padding:3px;" align="center"]9[/td]
[td style="padding:3px;" align="center"]9[/td]
[td align="center" style="padding:3px;"]9[/td]
[td style="padding:3px;" align="center"]11[/td][/tr][/tbody][/table]
[b]Ability:[/b] Vital Spirit - prevents Lillipup from falling asleep. In addition, wild encounters are more likely to be higher level.
[b]Held item:[/b] None
[b]Moves:[/b] Leer, Tackle, Lick |
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Post by Jessica Valeria on Sept 26, 2024 2:22:59 GMT
"Look, he said to his imagination, if this is how you're going to behave, I shan't bring you again." -Terry Pratchett, Going Postal Better safe than sorry
She sniffed as she took the pokeball in hand, holding it like a fragile thing in both palms as she tried to blink the tears from her eyes, her mouth so tight to try and keep her lip from quivering. She was overcome with emotions. Terror, of course, but also joy? Curiosity? Hope? All the pokemon here were so wonderful and kind and Dr. Devereux had clearly put in so much effort to help her and- and- Jessica looked up as he spoke and then, over come with emotion, moved to give this incredibly tall man a hug. "Thank you!" She sobbed. She quickly realized what she had done and moved away, dabbing some tears away from her eyes with one of her fingers. "I'm sorry! I just... thank you so much, Dr. Deve- I mean, Dev. You and the pokemon here have just been... so kind to me. I just- I get made fun of a lot by people, you know? For being s-scared of pokemon. I don't think its not normal! I mean... the world collapsed without them--but my parents remembered the slow downfall of the region and my grandparents are still so..." she shook her head. "I'm... I'm so grateful to you and to your pokemon here. Really. I'll take very good care of Lillipup, I promise!" As if on cue, the Lillipup gave a playful bark, wagging his tail so hard he flopped over again. Jess smiled and sniffed, carefully putting his belongings in her backpack, hooking the pokeball to the necklace Takara had gotten her, and then picking the tiny puppy up and holding him close in her arms. He was so warm and his fur so soft. He was panting and his tail wagging with such force she was worried it'd fall off. He gave a little yip and tried to jump up to lick her nose. "That sounds great, thank you. I'm ready. I know Takara is waiting with baited breath to hear all about this. I promised we'd get lunch after and he'd help me nickname my pokemon and we'd go shopping and everything..." She awkwardly wiped her eye on her shoulder as she held her puppy. "He talks about you a lot, you know! Your care of your... well, you know what, really impressed him. That isn't an easy thing to do! Takara is a very picky person, but he thinks you're a very wonderful person and amazing with pokemon and people. I have to agree with him." She sniffed. "I'll be sure to keep in touch! I know I'll have so many questions. It's nice to know I can reach out to you with them."She followed Dev out of the room and back to the front desk where others were waiting. It looked a lot more filled now. After they got her registration done, she smiled and pet the top of Lillipup's head. "You know... I was so sure this morning this would have gone horribly wrong. I actually planned to go to a meeting later today," she fumbled around in her backpack and then pulled out a little flyer. She handed it over. "I've talked to some of the people before. They said that pokemon being back was a horrible thing and we had to get rid of them again, that they were dangerous... Takara said they were a cult and..." she looked down at her Lillipup, "he might be right, ya know? I'm still scared, but this little guy is so small I don't think I have to be worried."Jessica gave the first bright smile since she got here. It was warm and filled with the confidence of a woman who could and has demanded the attention of an ornery boardroom. Someone who has told her own boss and closest friend off and gotten away with it. A glimpse into the real Jessica and not the shivering, shaking figure of the woman that came in today. "Thank you so much again, future Professor Devereux!" She gave a respectful bow and quickly left with all her new things and pokemon in tow. As she walked down the sidewalk, she got her Rotom phone--the newest technology making a come back at Salve Co.--to take a picture of her and her new pokemon. She sent it to Takara. Tara: holy shit!!! you actually got one!? Jess: You said I had to!!! Tara: well yeah!! but!! thats so great jess! where are you ill come pick you up. im hungy  Jess: LOL by the lab. Dev is as sweet as you said Tara: i told you that youd like him!! lillipup is a great starter for you and look at that bandana Jess: They all had one!! <3 Tara: tell me about it at lunch going to borrow sullys car again Jess: Did you ever get your license? Tara: lol Jess: TAKARA Tara: -shrug emoji- A couple hours later, a text comes through on Devereux's phone. It's from Jessica. Its a picture of her and Takara at an outdoor eatery, a Lillipup with tongue lulling out with the two trainers in the frame. Hera is sticking her head up in the background with a very happy smile. The text under it says: "His name is Fearghas! <3 - Jess" A second later another text, this one from Takara, all it says is, "Thanks! I really owe you one  she's already a little less scared!! You're a miracle worker!"
Fearghas has been added to Jessica's tracker and has seen a gender change! Never made it this far we oughta take it slow
| Fearghas || Level 1
9 / 9
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Post by Devereux Abremont on Sept 27, 2024 1:23:50 GMT
“Oh!” Devereux blinks – a bit taken aback at the very sudden hug. He certainly hadn’t expected it… but oh, the poor sweet thing. She did so well. He gently rests his hand across the back of her shoulders, squeezing back, and offers absolutely no resistance but the warmest possible smile when she pulls away.
She is… a kind woman. He can tell. And he knows she means no harm, as his shoulders relax. He reaches into his lab coat pocket and offers a tissue. “It’s quite alright Jess, don’t worry. I think…” He pauses, and tilts his head back, eyes searching across the ceiling as if thumbing mentally through his lexicon, looking for the right words. “It’s… understandable to be afraid. The entire region has upended itself for the second time in a century. Our generation never knew what our grandparents did. Pokemon… They’re incredible creatures… but it’s a lot to ask, to just accept or understand all at once. It can be wildly overwhelming. What matters is that you don’t let that fear consume you. And I think this little guy will help you get there.”
He tilts his head with that soft little fond and amused look, watching trainer and starter. And simply so – Devereux knows he is of a unique bias, with his family history of researchers ever revolving around Pokemon. But even Dev can understand the idea of how overwhelming it all can be. Afterall, what he thought amounted to a doctorate in a historical degree has suddenly become something quite practical, literal, and new in a field being re-learnt from the ground up. But ah. He digresses. “Ah, did he say that, now? That’s incredibly sweet – I know Pu’uwai would appreciate the thought too. I know their own care with everything was quite impressive, and well – I’m simply glad to help and support however I may.”
It’s an easy thing to get Miss Jessica all checked out. The ID is processed and issued, and while that works its way through the system, he retrieves the kit. “I hadn’t a doubt in the world. You did incredibly, and I know that little one will love you for all eternity,” he hums, nonchalant as he works. All of Lillipup’s files, health information, and needs, as well as the necessities for caring for a Pokemon such as standard food, bowls, etc., are present… and tucked into the neat little box, right at the top, are five extra Pokeballs to start the next incredible adventure. Dev also folds up the little pup’s blanket and the bone into the kit to make it fit nicely before handing it all off, brand new Trainer ID laid right on top.
“But ah… A… meeting, you said?” He raises his eyebrows curiously. For new trainers? He trades – a kit for the flyer. He takes a glance at the fairly nondescript advertisement, but his gaze quickly moves back up to Jess as he listens. “Is that so… well. My advice would be to put such people out of your mind, my dear. This little guy chose you – foster bonds of friendship above avarice. And take it at your own pace.”
He grins back and straightens himself with an approving noise as Jess smiles up at him. All at once he can see exactly who is behind those glasses; the real woman, behind fears and worries that foul influences have planted. Devereux is certain that with Lillipup by her side, that she will be just fine.
“Oh my,” he beams at the quite prestigious compliment, “Well you are quite welcome, Trainer Jessica! Keep in touch!” Dev watches as she leaves, pup and kit in tow. He waits, patiently, until she’s out the door, and then… “Well, my friend. I do believe that was a rousing success, don’t you?” He reaches up towards his head, and part of his barrette detaches, molding itself into a little hand that gives him a high five before re-seating itself. A pleased nod, and he turns, folding the flyer into his lab coat pocket and returning to the back of the lab to prepare for the next appointment. Afterall – there are five more Pokemon, waiting to meet their new trainers too… and there’s no time like the present!
–
A number of hours later, while on lunch break, Devereux’s phone chirps twice within seconds of one another on the break room table, causing Ahihaka to start eyeing up the device.
“You’re the popular one today,” his colleague and best friend, Auberon, notes.
“Hmm,” is his curious reply as he picks up the phone. He reads both texts, and breaks out into a grin. He taps the photo up to full-screen, and then sets the phone down. Predictably, Ahihaka bats it directly across the table to Auberon. “That’s the one from first thing this morning. What do you think?”
Auberon takes another bite of his sandwich, and looks. “Well, well. They look absolutely perfect for one another.”
~ || F I N || ~
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she's already a little less scared!! You're a miracle worker!"