Roleplay

[center][img]https://66.media.tumblr.com/5ee4b422cc8c40fdebf0ec55119d9640/tumblr_og4n7d7WLI1r8sc3ro2_500.gif[/img][/center] [center][size=4][b]Warring States[/b][/size][/center] Hundreds of years ago, Sinnoh was home to many different states, countries, and empires. Small wars weren't unusual, especially with the abundance of super-powered animals at everyone's fingertips, but when one major empire suddenly collapsed it caused a chain reaction of panic and civil war. Many larger wars were now taking place to try and fill the power vacuum left behind, extremist groups like Team Astral gaining power and influence across the land. It was now a dangerous time to travel, since even as the fights and wars waned, extremist groups and criminals were left to flourish in their wake. Complete peace may be a long time coming... ------------------------------------------------------------ [center][size=4][b]Team Astral[/b][/size][/center] The new extremist group on the rise goes by the name 'Team Astral'. They are more cult-like than anything, saying they are following Giratina's wishes, the Legendary Pokemon said to have been banished to another dimension long ago for its violence. Because of these stories, many fear Giratina, especially when the myths say it can watch them from any reflective surfaces and is slowly plotting a way to escape its prison and exact revenge on the Old World. This Team is all over the land, donning dark robes with Giratina's symbol on it (its head crest) and committing many crimes. They also set up mirrors and other reflective bits of materials in all sorts of places, so their master can spy easier on the world. So far, they've been collecting members, killing and attacking any who disagree with their philosophy and ransacking villages. Recently, they've been spotted in ruins, shrines, and other places that are used to worship the Pokemon gods. Some just think they are trying to cut off the other religions and connections to the gods, while some think there's something else going on... ------------------------------------------------------------ [center][size=4][b]Black Plague[/b][/size][/center] On top of everything, there have been a few rumors of some sort of 'black plague' that originated from the West. No one is truly sure if the rumors are true, but from what's been heard there have been livestock and crops that have died, but not before turning a light, ashy-black colour. Some of the more paranoid people have started wondering if is is the fabled Giratina's doing, the creature the cults have been whispering about. But more often than not, people have just been brushing off the rumor as paranoia. But maybe there really is something more sinister going on... ---------------------------------------------------------- [center][size=4][b]The Story...[/b][/size][/center] Two lost souls meet - a man with an Aegislash and a mysterious past, and a boy with a Bronzor who may hold some clues to figuring out the truth. They travel together, getting pulled into new adventures and situations. They slowly unravel the evil behind Team Astral, and the whole truth about the Space Trio. But, how exactly? Well, this is where the story begins...

[center][size=4][b]Characters[/b][/size][/center] I'll probably add more as the story progresses and as I get a better feel for his personality. Hope it's all good! ^^ [quote] [b]Name:[/b] Alister Fitzalan [b]Age:[/b] 12 [b]Gender:[/b] Male [b]Occupation:[/b] Hired hand (will do odd jobs, or anything that will get him money - within reason. Explores ruins for Bronzor) [b]Appearance:[/b] Alister has light brown mid-length, choppy hair and his eyes are a dark brown. He's a bit short for his age at 4’6” and much thinner and leaner, although he still has some muscle from being constantly on the move. He wears anything he can find, but usually makes sure one piece of clothing lasts as long as possible. He usually wears clothing with cheap materials, so brown or dark coloured fabric tunics with many a hand stitched hole (done by him). On top of his tunic he wears a very beat up leather jacket that is also quite faded and slightly oversized. It provides him with enough warmth though, which is all that matters to him. He wears old cotton pants that also have a few holes stitched up on them. They were originally white, but are now a brown, grass stained colour. On his feet he has brown leather shoes that are still relatively intact, although show signs of wear. Other than that, he keeps a few valuable items in the pockets of his jacket (a compass, a folded, painted picture of his old house, a small amount of gold - the rest is stashed in his backpack). He also tries to keep himself as clean as possible, although he does take less baths than ideal. [b]Pokemon:[/b] Has a total of 4 Pokemon currently. [center]Waxy/Wick | Litwick | Female | Juvenile Lv.15 | Flash Fire | No held item Ember / Fire Spin / Confuse Ray / Night Shade Waxy found herself come into existence as one of Alister's candles. Alister was feeling especially tired one night as he wrote down a short shopping list. He then noticed that one of the candles he was writing by had turned a curious blue/purple colour, and two little, beady yellow eyes started up at him from behind a ring of wax. Once he found something to feed her so she didn't suck the life force right out of him, a friendship began. Waxy is very protective of Ali, almost always attached to him in some way - either on his shoulder, on his head, anywhere she could stick on, even letting him hold her. She's also a bit hot headed to anyone who isn't Alister and gets jealous easily. Bronze | Bronzor | Genderless | Unknown Lv.30 | Levitate | Evolite Imprison / Iron Defense / Safeguard / Future Sight Bronze was found by Alister as he passed by a sketchy trader along a dirt road. Once he took a closer look, he saw a blue disk being held in a cage, startled when he saw two big eyes open to look sadly at him. After the trader gives him a brief explanation that this Pokemon is rare and has symbols on its back that lead to treasure, Alister asks how much he's wants for it. He ended up paying too much for Bronze, partially because he wanted to free the poor Pokemon, partially because he wanted to find the potential treasure it could lead him to. He regretted it for a while, money being tight for a long time with no pay off, until Bronze not only protected him from enemy attacks on more than one instance, but also found hidden treasures and places that Alister would have never found. Bronze is more of a pacifist, using defence more than offense, and is quite calm and complacent. An Evolite is stuck to them along their rim. Chirp | Rotom | Genderless | Adult Lv. 38 | Levitate | Leftovers Discharge / Double Team / Shock Wave / Ominous Wind Chirp was found in some ruins after an old mechanical system suddenly came to life and almost killed Alister. The little lightning sprite was revealed to be the culprit, and although they are a big prankster, they felt pretty bad. So, they made it a habit to follow Alistair around, usually appearing and leaving at random times and providing assistance where they could. They also usually steal food from him, but only little bits that they usually pay back in some way. Chirp is a huge prankster at heart and loves wreaking harmless havoc. Chompers | Gible | Male | Baby Lv.8 | Rough Skin | No held item Tackle / Sand Attack / Dragon Rage When a farmer's crops were being destroyed and dug up, Alister was enlisted to help solve the problem. When he found a baby Gible who was nibbling on some of the stolen crop, he didn't know what to do. The little guy had no parents in sight and it seemed like he'd been on his own for a while. With the farmer threatening to kill whatever was destroying his crops, Ali decided to lure the Gible away from the farmer's place instead of bringing him to the farmer, using food as a big motivator. Chompers, now with someone who cared about him, latched onto Alister. He didn't want to leave him once Alister tried to shoo him away. Ali was concerned on how to feed another mouth, but thankfully Chompers knew how to provide for himself and usually found his own food. Chompers is still a baby, but he's quite clumsy and energetic, always happy and enthusiastic to meet new people.[/center] [b]Personality:[/b] Alister is what people would think of as determined. He never lets an obstacle get in his way, always finding another way around or through if necessary. He perseveres through bad times and gives thanks for the good, but he always plans for the future no matter what. He's not an optimist, that's for sure, but he just keeps looking to what's next and focusing on surviving day by day, which keeps him level headed. He's not sure how he feels about receiving pity, as it varies from day to day. Ali is also surprisingly well mannered and usually has a good attitude with others - even going so far as to say he has a sunny one. He wears an easy smile when chatting with others and doesn't anger easily. His anger isn't really even anger, but more of a fuming silence or sadness. [b]Backstory:[/b] Alister never really had a father. He just left one day soon after Ali was born without any explanation, or at least without any explanation that was told to him. Him and his mother struggled to make ends meet, but for a while it was manageable and even enjoyable. Alister grew up being taught to be grateful for what he had and to keep working hard through tough times. One especially harsh winter, as their food stock plummeted and appliances broke, Alister's mom ventured out to find work or help in the next state in a desperate attempt to keep them afloat. He stayed in their chilly home, waiting for her to come home. But she never did. He stayed for a week in their house, finishing the food stock, before he knew he had to leave to survive. But go where, do what? What if his mom came back and he was gone? Or...would she ever come back? He ultimately decided to pack everything he could in a rucksack and head out to try and find his mom. Maybe she found work in the next state and haven't come back yet. But he never found her, or really figure out what happened to her when he asked around. He continued moving, using his own knowledge and things he picked up along the way to survive, always secretly hoping to one day find his mother. [b]Other:[/b] [LIST] [*]Has a backpack/rucksack that is a little longer than the length of his torso. It carries everything he owns, from extra clothing, to food, to supplies. His money is stashed in it too, hidden in pockets and under layers of other things. [*]Chompers is pretty slow moving, so Alister makes room in his backpack for [*]Chompers to sit in and get carried around (he's not super heavy since he's just a baby, but that's changing quickly) [*]Chompers gets given rocks to teeth on [*]Hides his money in many different places (shoes, jacket, hidden backpack pockets), sometimes not even on him (like in small hidden caches) [*]Has some abandonment issues [*]Hates being cold, and is irrationally scared of becoming too cold [*]Has a big sense of adventure [/LIST] [/quote] [quote] [b]Name:[/b] Sefirot (Surname unknown, presumably he never had one) [b]Age:[/b] 27 [b]Occupation:[/b] Traveler (Formerly a royal guard/knight, currently known to do the occasional job to keep himself in a decent situation) [b]Appearance:[/b] He stands fairly tall, but not overwhelmingly so (roughly 6'1), and has a rather unfitting, medium build despite the training and combat he undergoes. This often causes some to misjudge his ability or position. His hair is cut short and is a deep ebony in color, contrasting sharply to his golden eye color. Despite abandoning his old position, he still wears the brilliant monochrome garment that was gifted to him; though it now lacks the distinguishing badge. It consists of light armor, a vest-like uniform being worn over it. Some yellow trimming on the edges still remains. A number of belts and buckles at the waist serve their purpose by holding pouches, bags, and other things, such as the spare blade that he has. He opts to not wear the metal greaves that others of his position do, since he finds it hampers his movement too much; though he does wear the set of alabaster gauntlets. The outfit has a short, sewn-in, long-sleeved jacket at the top, which has a hood rimmed entirely in black fur. Hanging from it is a cape-like attachment, divided into three segments. Despite being white on the exterior, the interior is entirely black. He keeps this outfit in surprisingly good shape. [b]Pokemon:[/b] [center]Archon | Aegislash | Male | Adult (???) Stance Change | Shell Bell King's Shield / Sacred Sword / Swords Dance / Iron Head / Shadow Ball Sefirot's beloved partner, an Aegislash that evolved from a Doublade some time back. It had been with him since it was a Honedge, which had been found by him as a young child, injured and on the verge of death. The Pokemon took a liking to him, and allowed the knight-in-training to use it as a real sword, which was a bond that has carried into the present day. On the day he finished his training, it evolved into a Doublade, which he began to dual-wield. With exceptional prowess, the two became a nearly unstoppable tag team, resulting in Sefirot coming into the employment of the now-late king. On that day, he was offered a Dusk Stone as a commemorative gift by the court's advisor, and it was then used to evolve Doublade into Aegislash. Both the sword and the shield can be wielded freely, or sometimes even one at a time, leaving the other part free to move on its own. Despite being wielded as a real sword, it can still battle as a Pokemon normally would.[/center] [b]Personality:[/b] Honorable, dedicated, chivalrous: nearly the perfect image of an ideal knight, if it weren't for his social awkwardness. He is a well-mannered person, to say the least, using formalities even for those beneath his position (until he's told to knock it off). His strong sense of loyalty may or not be his greatest fault, but he will only follow those who adhere to a code of conduct that is at very least agreeable with his own. He is unhesitant in defending others, even on mere principle. Despite his outward steadfastness, he is kind to those who see him as a friend or companion, having been known amongst his fellow knights as a comrade in arms, even though he had been a guard to the king. He would never settle for dishonorable methods, and believes that the logic of ends justifying the means is highly flawed. Unfortunately, he tends to keep his own mouth shut to avoid meaning any offense or insult. In addition, he never really outwardly prides himself on his achievements, for politeness' sake and frankly too humble for such a thing. [b]Backstory:[/b] He had never known his mother, for she died in childbirth. His father had no choice but to send him off at the age of eight to be trained and raised as a knight, out of dire financial stress. Thus, he was never close to his parents, but he blames neither, and believes that his father really did mean the best for him when he was sent off. Before that time, he was a rather energetic youngster, exploring the woods near his home and running errands for his lone parent. Though, he never really hung out much with others his age. In school, he was diligent and studious, earning the favor of his instructors. Instead of learning to command pokemon for battle or simply how to use conventional weaponry, he combined the two due to his affinity with the sword pokemon that followed him. His exceptional talent made him a target for many nobles and royals, who wanted his services the moment he graduated. But ultimately, the king himself decided he wanted the new knight for his guard. Too obligated to refuse, Sefirot became the head of the royal guard alongside one other. He wielded an Aegislash, but the other possessed an unevolved Doublade, for they did not want to change their offensive style. Sefirot, however, evolved his for the sake of possessing a shield, to best do his duty. Over the years, he guarded the sovereign from many things. At the peak of a bloody and destructive war, which was also the ruler's holiday, the king's advisor asked him a question upon presenting him a lavish gift; a gem-inlaid blade and a chased shield of the highest quality. The question asked: "Do you prefer the sword, or the shield?" Without hesitation, the king selected the sword. That was the answer that set into motion the shattering of the kingdom, as Sefirot was deeply shaken by this, having known the advisor well beforehand, and knowing that the gifts were merely analogies for himself and his fellow guard leader. As soon as the war ended, he requested a dismissal, and left the service. Shortly afterwards, an assassination attempt resulted in the outbreak of civil war, and the violent division of the kingdom. As for Sefirot himself, he wandered the land, trying to figure out what exactly caused the wound in his soul, and how it might be repaired. [b]Other:[/b] [LIST] [*]Carries a spare longsword on his belt to make use of the dual-wielding style he possessed with Doublade, or to use when Aegislash is off being its own thing. [*]A very small dagger is concealed within his coat, mostly for utility use, as he would rather not dull the edges of an actual weapon. [*]Inability to fall and stay asleep unless Aegislash is near. [*]Absolutely despises those that take advantage of others. [*]Despite his possession of and partnership with an Aegislash, he does not believe the myth surrounding the Pokemon.[/LIST][/quote] Maybe a map our characters could use? [img]https://ih0.redbubble.net/image.100318317.9287/flat,550x550,075,f.u2.jpg[/img] (Art credit to [url=https://www.redbubble.com/people/meleeninja?ref=artist_title_name]MeleeNinja[/url] on RedBubble)

@Cytus

You can post your character now! :D I'll then add then add them to the character sheet above and then I'll start. I'm subbed too! (Also, let me know if what I wrote on the first post is okay. I sort of used some of you character's backstory - the bits you've told me, anyways - for some of it, so let me know if I should change it!)

o/ Late to the party but here I am now! Character sheet below. I've also subbed so o need for any more pings; if you find the need to adjust the OP based off new info given here, feel free to do so~

((Okay, we're all set to go! Love your character by the way. :D Time to get this show on the road!))

"This is a shortcut, alright? I've been through here a few times in the past, it'll only take a few minutes." Alister's quiet voice didn't carry very far in the small forest, but the candle Pokemon he was talking to heard him perfectly. The small creature situated on his shoulder gave a faint crackle in response, her small, golden eyes peering around in the gloom. It was nearing dusk, but they still had a bit of light streaming through the trees to guide them. It was much faster to walk through the small forests on Route 210, even though it was slightly more dangerous. The main dirt road wasn't much safer now though, as now-a-days when you're out in the open you catch the eye of any criminal or cultist lurking about.

After a brief discussion with his Pokemon, the decision was made to walk through the forest, since Alister wanted to get to Solaceon Town before nightfall. Not that he hasn't ever slept among the trees before, but with rising hostilities lately he'd rather not be caught off guard. Waxy had begrudgingly accepted this decision, using her small flame to light up a small perimeter around them as the sun grew dim. Bronze and Chompers didn't seem to mind either way, one peacefully floating by Alister while the other dozed off in his backpack. And Chirp, as usual, was no where in sight.

Alister hefted his bag high up on his shoulder, causing the baby land-shark to murmur in his sleep. With the flap of his bag closed, it created a nice, dark, warm little space for him to curl up in. Alister passively noticed that Chompers was getting heavier as he picked his way over some uncovered tree roots, shifting the bag once more to a comfortable spot on his shoulder.

Waxy crackled loudly as Ali accidentally shifted her over as he adjusted his straps, purple flame gorwing brighter for a few moments. "Sorry", Alister mumbled, pushing past a low-lying tree branch, "You better not be sapping my strength though, I sort of need that. At least until I can sleep." Waxy crackled loudly again, a small 'humph' also sounding from the candle. "I know, I know, just checking", Alister sighed, before smiling and poking the small candle, who crackled gleefully. They figured out she could sap strength from any living thing to support her flame, so she takes energy from plants and other animals instead of him.

A light breeze suddenly played with the branches of the trees, toying with Waxy's flame, but not succeeding in putting it out. The fluttering flame cast strange shadows on trees and bushes, making Alister grip the straps of his bag tightly and start to move his legs faster. It was getting darker, and with all the crazy stories going around, it was starting to spook him. Bronze floated closer to Ali as it felt him get anxious, when all three saw one of the shadows move against the flame's movement.

Alister walked faster now, stumbling slighty on roots and bushing roughly through branches. "You saw that too, right?", he asked his Pokemon, fear slowly bleeding into his voice. Bronze made a hollow metal clanging noise, eyes darting about worriedly. Waxy crackled loudly once more, her flame growing brighter and lighting up the shadows, but not before one leap at them.

Alister jumped frantically away, a short cry of fear and surprise leaving him. Without barely a second glance, he took off running. He wasn't sure which way he was going anymore, each shadow causing him to run another way. His heart beat loudly and strained against his chest, breath coming in and out as fast gasps. Waxy held on tightly, turning back to try and see what was pursuing them. Alister glanced back as well, but all he was was two huge sickles glinting wickedly in the fire light, bringing themselves down on the empty space he had just been in.

'Scyther?!', he thought frantically, 'There aren't supposed to be any Scythers around here!'

The beast behind him growled and shrilled, bring claws down mere inches from his back. Branches reached out as he ran past, clawing at him and just daring him to stumble and fall down. How many Scythers were chasing him? He didn't know, all the shadows now coming to life. Waxy screeched angrily, spitting a small burst of flame at the furious Scyther, only glancing off its head and making it roar loudly in anger.

A hidden root stuck out just far enough to clip his foot as he ran, his stomach clenching in fear as he tipped forwards and landed roughly on his stomach. The beast gave a shrill roar, bringing its scythe down on Alister as he curled up and braced for the feeling of cutting pain. But instead, a low clank of metal sounded, causing Alister to look up in surprise. Bronze caught the downward strike of the Scyther on its metal body, pushing back with a force that made the Syther take a step back. Alister wasted no time in scrambling back up to his feet and taking off. Bronze blocked another attack before flying off to rejoin his friend, the furious sounds of the bladed creature echoing off the trees.

They stumbled down a small hill, Alister once again barely keeping his footing as one of his ankles throbbed dully in pain. He must have done something to it when he tripped over that last tree root, but the adrenaline kept him going. Forest surrounded them on all sides as they got to the bottom of the hill, now more than one shrill roar bouncing off the trees.

"Okay, okay, how are we getting out of this one?", Alister said in gasps, feeling like his heart was going to burst as he backed up against a tree. He didn't even know where he was, he could have ran farther into the forest for all he knew. Bronze floated in front of Alister protectively, the dull sheen on its body showing that its Iron Defense was in effect. Ali almost felt confident that they could get out of this once seeing Bronze look so strong, until another roar sounded close around him and caused him to flinch.

Why, oh why, did he take the shortcut and not listen to his candle?

((I...went overboard. I just had a lot of fun describing everything. :P Hope my writings' all good though! :D))

((That's one heck of a starter! I approve \o/ I'm glad you like the character, I'll do my best to make him live up to it~ Which means I will proceed to go overboard as well. tl;dr Sacred Sword is cool (I think it's one of the coolest moves, tbh) and King's Shield is great. Creative liberties have been taken.))

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He had been resting on top one of the trees near the route, having figured that town was too far to make the trek worth the effort. And besides, he was far too tired from his earlier work and hunting for food. Thus, he had decided to head off to sleep earlier than usual, and he had succeeded...

The key word being had. With Archon comfortably held around one arm and his coat draped over him, he drifted off to sleep in the safety of a tall tree. But he was soon awoken by the distinct cries of angry Pokemon. But what truly roused him to action was the unmistakable sound of metal clashing against metal.

Standing abruptly on the branch, he released his hold on his sword, which floated upwards in a drowsy confusion. Throwing his coat back over his shoulders, he nodded to Aegislash and grasped the hilt firmly, before leaping off the tree entirely. His companion carried him downwards, and he changed his grip upon landing on solid ground. Both of his sharp eyes darted back and forth, searching for the source of the noise.

Shadows flittering in the corners of his vision caught his attention, and he turned and dashed after them. He was not wrong, there were indeed Pokemon being active here. Upon closer inspection, the silhouettes revealed the identity of the feral creatures, which were a number of Scyther. An unusual sight, but he didn't think much of it, considering that they were all headed in one direction.

That could only mean they were chasing some prey. Though, Arceus forbid, it could be someone. He picked up the pace, long strides carrying him speedily across the rough path as though he were gliding. Aegislash's twin banners fluttered behind him in the resulting wind, like a torn banner, waving on in solitude.

As he approached, he saw it - the silhouette of a relatively short human, fleeing into the distance. Now that his suspicions were confirmed... He slid to a stop and brandished Archon, a crackling volt of dark energy cascading from the blade and gathering into a growing sphere at the tip. And without hesitation, he swung the sword, causing it to fly outward and explode against the swarm of rampaging bug types.

They turned, and Archon emitted a notably metallic noise as Sefirot moved to a purely battle stance, glancing between the five Scyther. The Aegislash's dual ribbons wrapped around his arm to keep steady, and to lighten the weight he would have to deal with. His position already indicated that he meant for a fight, and they seemed happy to oblige, given how they all charged for him at once.

His left arm raised as he ducked behind the shield, the blades deflecting off the bronze-like material as he moved his sword arm behind his back. Two more clangs rang out as the sharpened arms of the Scyther came into contact with the silver edge.

Pushing a massive amount of force behind the shield, he knocked away the three Scyther that approached from the front, and deftly deflected the blows behind him. It was then that a number of firefly-like lights seemed to gather from the enviroment and swirl into the golden fuller of his weapon, as though it were absorbing all sources of light. It enveloped the sword, and after a single moment, Sefirot reopened his eyes and stepped forward, releasing the shield from his grip and moved both his hands to the hilt. His cloak fluttered in an echo of his movements, as the brilliant light reached its apex and guided his next strike.

He swung horizontally across three different Scyther, Archon's sudden and breathtaking radiance illuminating the path of the destructive blow, sending them aside as he pivoted around to greet the two in the back, his left hand letting go of Archon. The shield levitated back into his hand, and he moved it forward as they both leapt at him. A phantasmal force roared to life, creating an invisible barrier that knocked both bug-types away, and left them stunned in the aftermath.

It was the ideal opening. Stepping forward, he struck at the first downed Scyther with a one-handed swing, before immediately turning to the other, a second Shadow Ball forming on Archon's tip, and was rapidly released, throwing the receiving pokemon into a nearby tree from the force.

Sefirot looked around him, blade still in hand, just in case the battle wasn't finished. He was not about to lower his guard unless he could be sure of a sound conclusion. Both his golden eyes scanned the surroundings as he wondered if the unfortunate victim of the Scyther had reached relative safety.

((Eeeee, thank you! It took me, like, an hour to write Your response was awesome too! Let's see if poor Alister can catch a break... Also, I added a map to the 'Characters' post, maybe we could use it as the map they use in the RP? I might have Alister have a version of it...))

An explosion rocked the ground, the air briefly crackling with energy. The screeches of the Scythers reverberated around the area as they were caught off guard by the large chunks of earth pelting them. Alister raised his arms to protect his face, but the attack had gone off far enough away that he was unaffected. The Scythers, on the other hand, got the full brunt of it and were now exceptionally angry with whomever dared to attack them. Their screeches grew distant, and Alister slowly brought a hand to his pounding heart. Was he safe? Or did he now have bigger problems?

Then the sounds of metal clanging on metal reached his ears, the distant sounds of Scythers snarling and grating their scythe arms down something equally tough. It was then that the possibility that someone may actually be out there, saving him, crossed his mind. But what also crossed his mind was the possibility that this person - or Pokemon - might want to shred him equally as much as the Scythers did.

There was suddenly a slow glow of light that shone through the trees in the direction of the fight, becoming so bright for a moment that Alister had to shield his eyes, his Pokemon doing the same. Then there was a terrible screeching as the sound of something metal and sharp - perhaps a sword - slicing through carapaces rang out, along with the sound of large bodies falling to the ground and stumbling to get away. The shrill roars slowly diminished as another Scyther loped away through the undergrowth by Alister as anothers' growl turned into a high screech, before cutting off completely. Then all was silent and dark once more.

Alister realized he hadn't moved an inch while this had all gone down, eyes wide as he tried to figure out what just happened. Had someone really saved him? It sounded like a sword swinging, but then there were Pokemon moves being used. And what was that bright light?

Waxy made a small squeaking noise, before reigniting the light that he hadn't noticed she'd let out. It was so quiet and still all of a sudden, his still racing heart sounding way too loud. Should he...go see who it was who saved him? What if it's another feral Pokemon though...or one of those weird cultists or bandits people have been talking about? Maybe it was best to just slip away while the going's good...

A small squirming in his bag alerted him that Chompers had stirred awake, his head now poking up, out of the flap and glancing around, confused as to where they were. "Hey Chomps", Alister whispered, still regaining his breath and still not taking his eyes off the direction of his mystery savior, "You really slept through all of that, huh? Wow... What's up buddy?"

Chompers was now squirming more in the bag, eyes wide as he stared up into the treetop where they stood. He let out a small squeaky roar, before diving back into the bag where he curled up tight. "What...", Alister followed where Bronze was also now staring at, horror growing in him as his eyes trailed up to the top of the tree. Two large eyes stared back at him, large bladed claws that he hoped to never see again creeping down the tree towards him. It's maw opened, serrated teeth barred, and all Alister could do in that moment was stand in frozen fear.

Bronze made a loud metallic noise, ramming into Alister which finally got his feet to move. The Scyther was huge, it's bladed arms alone almost being as long as Alister was tall. He stumbled over his feet as he was once again on the run, the creature behind him pouncing off the tree and shaking the ground as it pursued him. "Oh Arceus, oh Arceus!", Alister swore, weaving around trees which slowed the beast down slightly. The large Scyther lunged to the side suddenly, cutting Alister off and causing him to make a sharp turn as he screamed in fear. In a panic, Alister shouted, "Waxy, use Confusion! Confusion!" Waxy quickly obeyed and cast many small spots of lights that danced out towards the feral Pokemon, the changing colours being slightly hypnotic. The Scyther barely slowed down, although Waxy did cause it to partially slam into a tree, making her crackle in victory. Until, that is, it didn't give up.

Alister didn't know how much farther he could run, he could almost feel the thing's breath on his neck. Where was that thing that took out all the other Scythers?!

As if reading his mind, the undergrowth thinned slightly and he spotted a figure standing a little ways ahead of him, also spotting a downed Scyther lying under a tree. 'Potential threat, or thing that will surely eat me?' Not really having any choice as the Scyther crashed through the trees behind him, Alister hollered at the shadow-hidden figure, "Help! Please!"

For every step Alister took, the bug-type now took three equivalent ones, unhindered by the trees at last. It was soon close enough, and raised its large scythe to bring down on the boy, giving a victorious growl. Bronze desperately used Iron Defense, moving to intercept the attack and hoping it would be strong enough to stop it. Alister squeezed his eyes shut and tensed up as the thing brought its blade down.

((...Too much? :P Sorry if it's a bit dramatic, I just...like drama. And what better way for them to meet? :D Also, do you think Pokemon say their names like in the anime, or just make noises like in the games? Sorry if this seems a bit rushed at the end as well, I kinda had to hurry up. ^^;))

((Nah, I got you. Incoming cool fight scene! Also I think it depends on the pokemon, some don't seem to have the capacity to sort-of-sound-out their name. And I learned that Sacred Sword is called Holy Sword in some translations... -runs with it-))

---

He was about to affirm that the battle was finished and go find a safer place to spend the night, until the unmistakable call of someone's plea for help reached his ears. He followed the rustling sound between the trees and the light, irregular thumping of footsteps against the dirt road. Archon followed behind, still within his grip.

It wasn't even a minute before he saw the enormous Scyther, larger than even he was. This was unusual, yes, but his nerves would remain unshaken as he practically dove in between the bug and the poor soul it had been chasing after. Archon's shield before him shone, raising an invisible barrier that stood in the way of the Scyther's enormous claws. He glared from behind the protective ward, a tranquil fury embodied in his eyes.

Careful to mind the person behind him, his sword once more began to draw all sources of illumination from the environment. Twinkling lights rose from the ground and bushes like lanterns being released into the sky, and their number and intensity grew within moments, as their force was drawn into the golden blade, which brimmed with the gathered light.

The moment when the Scyther flinched back from the sudden and unexpected resistance was when he struck. It was like a feint, as he dropped the shield and moved his freed hand to the sword hilt, putting all his strength behind the next blow, radiating a sanctified brilliance. It was not a technique he used too lightly, but battling an oversized, murderous bug seemed like an appropriate situation to deploy it.

He didn't stop. After Sacred Sword connected, he put one foot forward and firmly planted it in the ground, and then twisted his body as he swung the blade a second time, allowing momentum to do the work for him, as the metal slammed into the carapace of the insect.

Archon seemed to have gotten the signal for a finisher, and the back-end of the hilt, known in traditional smithing as the pommel, shone with a very faint glow, briefly revealing its increased sheen. Sefirot approached the Scyther once more, striking downward with the blunt end of his weapon. It was also a traditional technique employed in actual swordfighting, but he had recently found that Iron Head was a near-perfect replication.

His blade crackled with energy, ominous lightning streaking up and down the metallic surface as it charged a sphere of dark energy, which he then flung outwards at the Scyther, hoping that would be the last signal he needed to give for it to leave him and the unknown human alone. This was an eventful night if he knew one.

Not wanting to potentially end the Pokemon's life, however, he refrained from any further blows and beckoned the shield to his side once more, the object automatically sliding to his left arm as he braced himself, entering a guard stance. Just in case the Scyther stood and aimed at him once more...

King's Shield would be ready to counter. He had always felt lightly bad for using it now, but it was far too useful and practical to ignore. Yet, the guilt still nipped at the corners of his mind-

No, not now. His eyes refocused as he watched the Scyther, still deep in anticipation and prepared for a counterstrike.

---

((Hmm, shorter than I thought. Tried to go for the end rather quickly so the two nerds can talk already, haha...))

((Okay, makes sense. I was thinking they said their name only when they really want to be heard or are having strong emotions...? I explained it really horribly, but basically what you said. And don't worry about the length, I'll try to wrap it up so they can start adventuring! :D))

The grating noise of the Scyther's arms hitting some strong, metallic object rang out, the creature roaring shrilly as it was knocked back. Alister whipped his head back towards the bug, seeing the man who was standing ahead now holding his shield out, a bluish barrier dissipating as the large creature stumbled back. He now stood between the Scyther and Alister, his sword glowing in the same way the forest glowed a few moments ago.

Alister stopped running and faced the man who was now attacking the creature, his sword slicing into it twice with its bright brilliance. Bronze had retreated back to his friend's side, relieved to have not taken that blow, but also ready to defend in case anything else appeared.

The man attacked it again and again, Alister watching in awe as he didn't let the beast get enough time in between blows to attack back. After a few more hits, Ali realized that the Pokemon moves that were being used came from his sword...which meant his sword was a Pokemon...?

Not given any time to ponder, the Scyther growled angrily after one last Shadow Ball was lobbed at it. Its growl was a bit wobbly though, and in the dying light Alister could see it was staggering and weighing its options. The man in front of him was now in a defensive stance, waiting for the creature to make a move, which it did.

The Scyther backed up a few paces, now weary of the man's blade and staying wisely out of reach, as the wind started to pick up around them. It was unnatural though, as the wind was blowing every which way and concentrating around the bug-type. Alister felt his jacket whip around him, the wind now starting to bite into him and sting as the creature screeched again. Not wanting the creature to finish or continue the move it was using, Alister shouted to Waxy over the howling wind, "Waxy, scare it off with Nightshade! Try to at least!"

Waxy quickly looked form Ali to the bug, hesitating a moment longer before she squeaked and gathered a dark aura around her, launching it at her opponent. Her flame had gone out again, but her furious golden eyes shone through the dark as the aura curled up the Scyther and latched onto it. It seemed like it wasn't doing anything for a moment, until the wind died down suddenly and the feral Pokemon gave a high pitched shriek. Its wings fluttered wildly as it stumbled around, gnashing its teeth and clawing its blades once more through the ground, before it turned around clumsily and crashed back through the trees. All that was left were the divots in the ground where it had cleaved the soil and a faint dark aura that drifted about.

Alister clutched at his jacket, letting out a breath he didn't know he had been holding in. Waxy squeaked and crackled in victory, probably telling the bug-type 'and don't come back' in the Pokemon's language. Bronze still floated quite close to Alister, relieved that the thing was gone, but now focused on the mysterious man who helped them. He just risked his life to save their's, so he probably wouldn't turn around and attack them, right? He could have just left that to the Scyther if that was the case.

Swallowing hard and slowly catching his breath, Alister also focused on the man wearily. He couldn't see much of him with the shadows casting over him, except that he was tall, wore armor and some sort of cloak, and had a glowing...sword Pokemon? He was still unsure about that. He had to say something though, this guy saved his life!

Standing a little straighter and trying to not show how tired he now was, Alister timidly said, "Thank you, sir. That was really kind of you to help me out." Surprised he didn't stutter through that sentence, he gave a small smile before dropping it. Waxy had relit her flame and was watching the man carefully with her beady eyes, a little hint of aggression in them.

((Hey, hope that was good! The move the Scyther was charging up was Razor Wind by the way, just in case you were dying to know. :P Now the nerds (as you put it wonderfully) can finally talk! :D))

((It was great! Man, this RP started off better than I could have ever imagined and has almost relit my love for pokemon ever since it kind of died post-gen V. Indeed, the nerds can now chat. Shorter post, sorry :c))

---

The biting wind was nothing. He had endured far worse, and with the shield guarding him, he didn't feel too much of the attack. But, it seemed like his protectorate had taken the initiative on the counter, and sent the Scyther scampering off with some other move.

He held his stance, but after the silence, it seemed that safety had been reached, and there wouldn't be any more feral Pokemon. He was hoping that some undisturbed sleep could actually be obtained this night, considering how it had been ruined just a scant while ago.

Eventually, Sefirot exits his guarding position and relaxes, standing upright instead of being in a battle-ready pose. The gilded shield lowers, as does his golden blade. His eyes pass over the area once more in affirmation.

"It is nothing." He then answers as he turns around to look at the young man, who, upon closer inspection, was even younger than he had initially expected. The boy couldn't even be considered in his teens, judging from his height and build. Not to mention, his condition couldn't have been considered what one would call 'good'. What was he doing all the way out here, in the wilderness amidst the darkness of night?

He felt Archon's ribbons loosen from his right arm, and the sword eventually detached and went into a still, floating position right besides him. The jewel-like, amethyst-colored eye on the hilt looked curiously at Alister and his few companions, almost as if in inquiry. It moved back and forth between the human and the Pokemon, and seemed to stop when it deemed its curiosity sated. On instinct, Sefirot released the shield in his grip, and it returned to the Aegislash, which held it loyally before its shimmering sword, and the remaining, residual glow died down soon after.

"So, what are you doing out here?" He asks, curious to know his reasonings, as he brushes away the leaves and dust that have managed to find their way onto his otherwise immaculate coat. "Should I accompany you to the nearest town?" Of course, it was improper to save him and then leave him to his own devices, so he figured he would at least do that for the boy.

The nearest town to here... Solaceon, yes. Geography had never been his best suit, and that was why he had been a knight, not a cartographer or commander. Either of those two would have resulted in some spectacular disasters.