A Moment in Time

[Morrigan]

Tenebrae and Dimitri by her side, a messy and tired brunette stumbled across the dirt path which led to Ecruteak City. Dirt smeared across her skin, twigs sticking out of her hair and bags under her eyes, neither of her Pokemon looked particularly energetic either. Throughout the night she had been travelling backwards and forwards, tracking down an unknown monster which was terrorizing a local berry plantation. Getting to the bottom of things which resulted in her capturing the trouble maker, it didn't take too long for the trio to venture through the wilderness and wind up in their next destination. Slowly but surely, the tops of buildings came into view through the darkness and with it, a spark of energy hit her. "We're... Almost there!" Rubbing a hand across her face, it was Tenebrae himself who suddenly picked up his pace. "Hey... Ten!" Charging after the human Zorua, Sharada couldn't help but feel a bit worried. Since the beginning of their quest to help Bernie, Tenebrae was coming across as distant. Usually quiet and shy, it was odd that he was the first one to make a dash forward. Wondering if he had picked up on danger, all Sharada could so was follow him and soon enough, they made it to the entrance of the city.

The cobbled streets lined with beautiful, traditional buildings and edge with thick woodland, it certainly didn't give an unwelcoming feel. The atmosphere being calm and peaceful, the group immediately came to a halt, eyes looking around in awe from the spot they stood. "This must be Ecruteak. It sure is nice here." Her words mumbling through her slightly parted lips, she glanced down to Tenebrae, whose own line of sight seemed to be pointing to somewhere in particular. Trying to follow, the thing he was so deeply focused on was a decrepit old tower, bringing a raised eyebrow to her expression. To Sharada, there was nothing special about it, if anything it looked about ready to crumble there and then. "It is... Everywhere." Her eyes widening at the sound of a shaky voice, Sharada turned on the spot, noticing Tenebrae shivering nervously, his eyes looking around almost fearfully. "What is? What is it, Tenebrae?!" Her voice full of concern, she moved down to his level and placed a supportive hand on his shoulder but it didn't ease his expression. "In that tower... I can feel immense strength! I can sense it everywhere... And a familiar scent... It smells like...!!" His eyes suddenly rolling back, Tenebrae's body shifted forward, his shape morphing back into his normal Zorua form and landing in the arms of Sharada.

"TENEBRAE!!" Staring down at his fainted body and shaking him gently, Dimitri hopped over to look down at him too. "Dammit! I knew something was wrong! Tenebrae, why didn't you tell me?!" Knowing he was extremely sensitive, the possibility of strong Pokemon lurking nearby was bound to have confused him, making him panic to the point of exhaustion. Holding onto the Zorua, Sharada immediately stood up and dashed her way into Ecruteak. She needed a Pokemon Centre as quickly as possible to heal up her friend. Luckily coming across it near the entrance of the city, Sharada handed Tenebrae and the rest of her Pokemon to the nurse where everyone was brought back to health and her Zorua simply needing rest. Deciding it was best to leave Ecruteak for now, Sharada travelled back to the Team Rocket HQ, where she then went to visit the local Kalos Festival. Hoping a bit more of an easy pace would ease Tenebrae's worry, time soon rolled back around where they returned to Ecruteak once more.

---

Returning during a raging thunderstorm, both Sharada and Tenebrae were trapped in the route which led to Ecruteak. Seeking shelter in the wilderness, there wasn't an awful lot they could do as Sharada began to panic. "I-I'm not scared-ah-AAAHH!" Flinching every time a flash and rumble of thunder and lightning echoed over head, Sharada felt her finger nails digging through her hair as she tried to keep her cool. Hating the very same weather that surrounded her, it had rolled in so quickly that she didn't have time to find a building to hide in. Then there was the case that Tenebrae was still being relatively quiet, mainly out of frustration due to his lack of courage. Sharada whimpering under her breath as the foul weather ploughed on, the two were sitting ducks for both wild and trainer encounters.

OOC: Looking for day time encounters during the Thunderstorm.

[Silverfire]

Despite the pouring rain, there were still many Pokemon wandering around. Once such Pokemon was a young, lone Stantler. It had recently left it's herd to form a new one, as its old one was getting to be quite crowded. It had been a hard start for the poor Stantler, running away from Team Rocket and spraining an ankle in the process, but it was currently doing quite well. Shaking its antlers to rid them of the rain, it trotted towards a small bush. Said bush contained a few Oran berries which the herbivore ate up happily. If it wasn't raining, this Stantler would be extraordinarily happy. The rain annoyed it though, so if it wasn't for the need to eat, it would be curled up in its cave near a small creek. The cave it had chosen for a home was quite spacious and would be able to hold about five more does and three more bucks. It would also be able to hold fawns, yet the Stantler was sure that it wasn't ready for that. Sitting down under a small tree covering, it thought back to how the Stantler herd worked. Any Stantler could create a herd, be it male or female. Female run herds were rarer, but it wasn't too uncommon to see a female run one. There were even joint herds, where two Stantler, usually twins, created a herd together. These herds were much rarer, since twins were quite rare amongst the Stantler species. Pulling itself out of its thoughts, the Stantler decided to get to its cave. Standing up, it started walking towards its cave when it came across Shandra's hiding spot. Snorting at the girl, it began to paw at the ground in an angry manner. This human was in its territory, and it wanted her out!

---

An angry Wild Stantler lever 21 has found you!

Will you fight or flee?

[Morrigan]

The thunderstorm showed no signs of slowing down and neither did Sharada's fear. Hunched in the shape of a ball, the brunette sat under the safety of the thick trees, her back against a stern trunk, legs brought up to her chest and arms tightly clinging across to cover her head of lush brown hair. Her eyes twitching fearfully with each flash, it was something that annoyed Sharada greatly. No matter how often she tried to overcome this childish fear, it just wouldn't leave her memory. The only time was in order to protect Tenebrae but even now, it was him sitting by her side in order to keep watch for oncoming danger. Every now and then his ears would twitch, body shaking in surprise at the tremendous booms that exploded from the skies above. The rain also creating the sound of constant pitter patter, it was a mystery as to how long the two had even been in the same position. Wearily glancing her eyes to one side, she could just about make out the shape of Tenebrae sitting beside her, through the blurriness of her vision mixed in with the darkness that surrounded them. "M-Maybe we should move s-somewhere else." Sharada tried to suggest after what seemed like hours of silence.

Turning his own head to face her slightly peering, it was obvious that Tenebrae himself was uncertain. Knowing first hand how terrified and helpless she could become in these situations, he figured there was no point in forcing her to move anywhere. Opening his mouth, he paused and then shut his lips, merely shaking his head from side to side in disagreement instead. Deep down, Tenebrae merely wanted to live in peace but lately, he was beginning to understand the importance of becoming strong. Often nervous and quiet, he had tried to take part in battles in the past but was often recalled instantly due to Sharada's protection. He thought that maybe, this would be his chance to look after her. Biting her lip, Sharada squinted but turned her head back into her knees, "Y-You're right... W-We'll just stay here." Going back into their silence, it wasn't long after that Tenebrae picked up on something. His back straightening and ears perking up, his icy blue eyes scanned all around. Something had managed to sneak up on them and they were giving off an incredibly hostile vibe. Then finally, his eyes met with the opponent.

Dragging a hoof across the ground, a Stantler stood nearby. Not realising that they were so close to it's home, the duo could've simply moved away to avoid any battles but for Tenebrae, it was almost perfect. Standing to his feet, his movements immediately alerted Sharada, who looked up from her cowering pose. "W-What? What is it?" Her own eyes spotting the Stantler, she turned back to Tenebrae and grabbed at his human wrist, "W-ait! T-Tenebrae!" "Stop it." Shaking his hand, he managed to get himself free fairly easily from her grasp. "You are in no state to move. I'll take care of this." Not even using his skills of illusion to imitate another Pokemon, Tenebrae merely morphed back into his Zorua form and stepped up to the Stantler. His little legs shaking with nerves, all of a sudden his eyes began to swell with tears. Using his Fake Tears attack to try and lower the Stantler's guard, Tenebrae tried to come across as weak and helpless.

[latani]

Vs. Stantler
- - - - - - - - - - - - -

Stantler was taken aback when the smaller human shifted forms, even if it was no stranger to illusions. The tall antlers atop its head were known to distort reality, making many of its kind targets of either terrified humans or poachers seeking treasures. Bad enough that a human had stumbled onto its territory, but to have illusion trickery turned around on it... well, that was just it. Splashing across the sodden ground, Stantler cantered over towards Tenebrae, its wild snorting lost to a particularly loud clap of thunder. The storm lent a rather intimidating cast to Stantler's features as it reared up over the small Zorua, long legs kicking out.

Tenebrae could do little as the deer descended, scrambling to avoid the worst of the blow as Stantler stomped down hard. One hoof caught his tail and squashed it hard, mud squelching as the Normal-type made sure to grind it. Wriggling away, aided thankfully by the slippery mud, Tenebrae looked over his sullied tail with tears springing to his eyes. Neither he nor Sharada knew why the Stantler was so angry, and to have it attack him so harshly... it was almost disheartening.

Lip trembling and both ears folding back, Tenebrae switched on his best pout and directed the full force of it in Stantler's direction. It stepped back with a confused snort, head tilting sideways as thick tears splashed down the Zorua's cheeks. The shaking that had overcome him helped to convince Stantler that perhaps it had overreacted, almost bowing its head in shame. Tenebrae was cheered by the sight, knowing his little act would make the rest of the battle just that little bit easier.

Wild Pokémon Battle

---

Wild Stantler | Level 21 |
Health: 100% (68/68 HP)
Status: No more tears!; Sp. Def -2
Stantler used a successful Stomp!

VS

Sharada's Tenebrae | Level 24 |
Health: 65% (39/60 HP)
Status: Some of the tears are real...; Normal
Tenebrae used a successful Fake Tears!

[Morrigan]

As another bolt of thunder boomed in the skies above, Sharada clasped at her head, wearily forcing herself to look helplessly at the battle in front of her. Through her blurred vision, Tenebrae transformed into his Zorua form, black and red fur becoming drenched by the cascading rain as he stepped more into the path of the Stantler. His soft blue eyes staring up at the much taller Pokemon, Tenebrae tried to snarl his snout but it unfortunately ended in a pitiful, failed attempt at intimidation. "B-Be careful!!" Sharada's shaken voice could barely be heard over the sound of the weather but regardless, Tenebrae acknowledged her words with a twitch of his ears. "Can I really... Defeat another Pokemon?" The question of his strength forming in his mind at the worst possible time, he was quickly going to find out if he was truly cut out for battling. In the wild, many Pokemon were ruthless this Stantler being a prime example. Simply wanting to defend it's home, it was prepared to use as much of it's energy as possible. If Tenebrae wasn't equally as determined to win, then he would suffer with a great deal of injuries.

The Zorua's head cowering as the Stantler made it's move first, the mixture of the flashing of lightning and sight of bucking legs completely froze Tenebrae. "M-MOVE!!" Shouting that bit louder to grab at his attention, Tenebrae tried to skid out of the way but couldn't completely avoid the attack. Feeling pain pulsate around his tail, his body tripped into the mud where he forced himself back onto his paws. "T-Tsk! I didn't react fast enough!... I... I couldn't react!" Finding battling a little more difficult than he originally thought, he attempted a different approach. Back in his home of Unova, when his Zorua clan were cornered, they would often use Fake Tears in order to distract their opponent, allowing others to escape. This situation was different but he hoped to atleast force the Stantler to back off some. Luckily the move wasn't too hard to pull off due to the pain he was actually feeling. Hid body moving into a natural cower and eyes streaming with tears, he looked so convincing that even Sharada felt her chest tighten. "D-Dammit Tenebrae! You don't need to f-force yourself for me!"

Not responding to his trainer's plea, instead, his eyes reamined focused on the Stantler, a slight smirk forming in his mind. His idea had worked and with it, the Stantler looked less hostile. "Now... A deep breath..." Placing a paw forward, he knew that his fake tears alone wouldn't halt the Stantler completely and thus, he had to do something more offensive. Clearing his mind and opening his eyes, they seemed to almost glow through the grim weather. Focusing on his dark powers, Tenebrae prepared to unleash a move he had recently been taught by a tutor in Ecruteak; Dark Pulse. Meanwhile, Sharada had placed a hand near her Pokeball holster, ready to intervene if things began to look more grim.

[Sacred Fire]

Thunder clashed in the distance, as the sky was lit up with bright light. Rain came pouring down in the bucket fulls, as the Stantler didn't seem to be phased by the lightning as it came awfully close. But it never once struck the battle field where they were standing. It was as if Zapdos, the electrical pokemon was indeed angry with them for some reason. It was letting its wraith be known to trainers, and pokemon alike as they wandered through the area for some certain reason. The Stantler was poised, ready for another attack. It began to dig the ground with its front right hoof like a torus was, ready to charge. The pokemon gave out a heavy breath as the warmth could be seen in a mist form from its nostrils. But it was clear Sharada's Tenebrae, had been the first one to attack this round with his advantage over the speed between the two.

Tenebrae released a heavy dark pulse, a circle created around it and shot it forward straight at the stantler. The stantler was soon shrouded in darkness, it had been the darkest of black it had ever seen before as its heart started to race. The pokemmon tried to stay calm despite the sudden fear that came to the area. As the hit had been a successful one, the attack had almost been too strong for Stantler as the pokemon collapsed. After the successful Fake Tears that Tenebrae had given off earlier, it had been enough to do almost twice as much damage from earlier. The deer pokemon could not get an attack in as the dark pulse had been enough to take it down. The pokemon collapsed in the middle of the battle as Tennebrae too it this time to his victory over thigs. The Zorua seemed satisified with the victory. However, there was another story with this storm ahead as it continued to clash with thunder and lightning. It was clear it refused to let up any time soon even as Sharada traveled to Ecruteak. Perhaps she could seek some shelter there within the pokemon center.


Wild Pokémon Battle

---

Wild Stantler | Level 21 |
Health: 100% (00/68 HP)
Status: Normal; Sp. Def -2
Stantler Fainted!

VS

Sharada's Tenebrae | Level 24 |
Health: 65% (39/60 HP)
Status: Normal.;
Tenebrae used a successful Dark Pulse!

---

Tenebrae has grown +2 levels for defeating the wild Stantler and is now at level 26!
Tenebrae is trying to learn Taunt, do you want to delete a move to make room for Scary Face?

Tenebrae has gained +1 happiness!


Rawk Hawk has gained +1 level from the exp share!

[Morrigan]

A powerful blast of dark energy shot from the body of Tenebrae, striking the opposing Stantler and causing it to faint instantly. After the sound of it's body hitting the floor with a thump, any following noise was purely weather related as Sharada sat in complete awe. All four paws spread across the ground, Tenebrae panted heavily, his fur well and truly drenched due to the heavy rain. "I... I did it." His mind running circles, the inexperienced Zorua was uncertain whether to be thrilled or not with his victory. He had succeeded in protecting Sharada but for what cost? Now, the Stantler merely laid there, slumbering in the heavy weather before it was strong enough to awaken again. Was there really any need to battle? His eyes moving toward the ground, he mumbled in his own tongue under his breath, "Yes. Because this is the way... Nature works... H-Huh?" All of a sudden, Tenebrae felt his body lift into the air, a pair of arms wrapping around him protectively. Head buried under her mess of hair, Tenebrae sniffed and picked up on Sharada's scent, not resisting in the slightest. Using all of her might and will power, the brunette had moved from her hiding spot into the centre of where the battle took place before lifting the young Zorua into her arms.

Hiding her expression from him, her grip around him tightened, almost possessively. "Tenebrae, are you hurt anywhere?" His tail flickering at her words, his moment of silence perhaps suggested otherwise but he still replied softly, "No. I am fine... B-But we really should get back under some shelter." Feeling the rain soak through her hair, Sharada didn't move an inch. "W-Were you scared?" His eyes widening slightly, he could feel his body lowering as Sharada finally lifted her head, her eyes bloodshot from all the tears ranging from her fear of thunder and lightning and worry for her friend. "B-Because I was scared. I worry for all my Pokemon. E-Especially you, Tenebrae. I... I force you to stay in Team Rocket with me and even after everything we have been through, I still don't give you a proper chance with anything. I-I'm sorry, Tenebrae. L-Looking out for you is a hard habit to break." The Zorua falling quiet for a few moments, he eventually lifted his head, rubbing his snout affectionately against Sharada's chin. "I may be small but after all this time, I wish to be given a chance. Not just for you, I want to be able to protect other Pokemon too, as well as myself." Finally hearing Tenebrae bluntly state his feelings, the brunette made a wobble back onto her feet.

The two were covered with mud after kneeling down on the sodden ground but for now, they had to find some place safe. "T-Then, I have to try my best for you too." Her facial expression flinching as a crack of thunder erupted above, Sharada gripped onto the body of the small Zorua and made a mad dash into the flurry of surrounding trees. Moving away from where the battle with the Stantler took place, Sharada hoped that they could find some shelter in the wilderness as Ecruteak was still quite a walk away. Looking like a bit of a mess, the pair ventured deeper into the route.

OOC: I think the attack is supposed to be Taunt at Level 25 but I'm ignoring it regardless.

[The REAL Joey]

Venturing deeper into the route, it would be perhaps not the best of ideas. Recently having suffered a genocidal onslaught between the Nido clan and a ragtag bunch of marauding Pokemon, it had meant the route itself was getting back on its feet from the gruelling turf war. The destruction itself was waged primarily against those of the Nidokin meaning their numbers had thinned considerably. Without a king to lead them and lacking in number, the remaining survivors had retreated to parts unknown in the hope that they one day would be able to emerge once more with numerous numbers to support them in their endeavours. Entering within the outskirts of the Nidokin's sanctuary, it had meant they had alerted one of the remaining stronger members of the group. Having witnessed first hand the barbarity of his clan being so ruthlessly obliterated, it had meant the young Nidoran had forced himself to evolve in order to help support his family.

Now superior in its form, the Pokemon now sauntered about as a boisterous Nidorino, fierce in its actions from being audience to all the horrors committed. So long as it dealt crippling blows to its opponents, it knew it would be the one to live another day. Given how much of a delinquent it had become, more conservative members of the family had somewhat ostracised the young Nidorino in fear he would bring about more danger to the weakened herd. Not caring too much, the Nidorino took it upon itself to survey along the outskirts of their territory and ward off any would be intruders. Picking up on Sharada and her group, the Pokemon launched itself out of the bush rather angrily and lowered its sizeable horn in warning. No matter what she chose to do, the Nidorino would show her no mercy.



Encounter

---

A rowdy Nidorino (Level 24) steps up to the challenge!
Please select a Pokemon for battle.

[Morrigan]

The duo staggered across the damp route, soaked by the rain which continued to pour from the sky above and their bodies slathered with mud after their recent escape from the Stantler. Leaning against one another for support, both Sharada and Tenebrae fought against the howling winds and cackling of the thunder storm in order to find some more shelter. As they pressed on, they came across a stretch of land where the surrounding wilderness seemed damaged. Bushes and earth upturned, trees uprooted, the area in general looked like a war zone. Flinching as lightning flashed from above, Sharada looked around hesitantly, damp locks of hair sticking to her cheeks. "W-What happened here?" She questioned under her breath, her words barely heard by Tenebrae as a boom of thunder followed. His ears lowering as he too looked ahead, whatever had happened recently, this was only a section of the greater catastrophe which happened further ahead. Supporting Sharada with his small frame, they took a few more steps forward until his ears perked up. The sound was disguised due to the hammering rain but he was certain he heard something, similar to a snap.

"Watch out!!" Pulling the nervous Sharada back with all his might, the brunette cried out as she stumbled backward, tripping over her own feet and landing back on the muddy ground. Flicking her hand in disgust, she glanced to the side, seeing that a Pokemon had emerged from the bush and stood dangerously close to the pair. Horn lowering in a threatening manner, Sharada tried hard to get back to her feet, slipping once or twice but eventually gaining a bit of space with the help of Tenebrae. "I thought I could sense something. I think there are more nearby." Looking into the distance, he was certain he could feel others of the same species nearby. Sharada's own eyes being unable to look away from the Nidorino's own, she had raised a Nidoqueen herself and knew how stubborn these Pokemon could be. Reaching down to her holster, Tenebrae noticed her movements and immediately cut in. "Wait. I can handle this Pokemon." Looking to him, this time, Sharada stood firm. "I need you nearby... To keep an eye out incase anything else approaches us. Nido's are territorial, if we become surrounded, we'll be in trouble."

Looking back to the Nidorino, she could see the delinquent type was becoming impatient and unruly. "I don't doubt you could handle this. But... I need you here." Nodding her head to prove that she didn't doubt his abilities, he instead gripped onto her side tighter to help her stand, as she threw a Pokeball forward to reveal her Cubone. Rain dribbling down his skull, Lorne looked up to the sky solemnly, his behaviour suiting this depressing weather. Clenching a fist, Sharada needed to draw him out of his miserable state. "Lorne! Use Bonemerang on the Nidorino!" Gripping hold of his bone club defensively, the Cubone sniffled as he tried to hold back any tears.

[Silverfire]

The Nidorino snorted at the Cubone. He hated those types of Pokemon! They were weak, pitiful, and we're just a waste of space! Deciding that he would show a little mercy, he used his weakest attack. Opening his maw, he shot forth a few dozen poisonous barbs towards the Cubone, and they hit straight on. He then rolled his eyes. "This is why your mother died!" he said with a smirk. That was always a soft spot for Cubone, no matter who it was. The only Cubone that wasn't affected by remarks like those were captivity bred ones who still had their parents. As he waited for the attack to hit, he closed his eyes. He didn't open them until he felt a slamming pain in his side as he suddenly dropped to the floor. He was unconscious. A Nidorino lumbered out of the bushes next to the battle field and hefted the Nidorino up, muttering a bout how dumb her brother was as she took him away.

Lorne was fighting back tears as the battle began. He wasn't in the best mental state, but he would fight for Sharada. Gripping his bone to his chest, he closed his eyes as the barrage of poison stings came flying towards him. They didn't really hurt him, and this was evident on his face. Then he heard the comment. Tears stung his eyes and some even started to fall, yet he didn't give up. Throwing his bone with all his might, he heard the tell tale crack as it hit the Nidorino dead on. To his surprise however, the Nidorino was already unconscious! He watched as a Nidorina took the other Pokemon away.

---

Wild Nidorino level 24

Wild Nidorino used Poison Sting!

HP: 0/70 (%0)

Status: Normal

That was a lucky shot!

Sharada's Lorne level 24

Sharada's Lorne used Bonemarang!
HP: 62/65 (%95)
Status: Normal
I'm fine. I'm not depressed.

---

Lorne gained 4 levels for defeating the opponent!

Lorne is now level 28!

Lorne gained +1 Happiness!

Lorne now has +5 Happiness!

EXP: (0/2,437)
Lorne is trying to learn False Swipe! Would you like to forget a move and learn False Swipe?

Rawk Hawk gained 1 level from the EXP share!

Rawk Hawk is now level 12!
Rawk Hawk is trying to learn Roost! Would you like to forget a move and learn Roost?

[Morrigan]

Looking on with a stern expression, Sharada trusted that Lorne could pull himself together in order to battle. Quite a solemn, lonely Pokemon, he had never gotten over his tragic past which involved Team Rocket, even when he was shipped over to Johto and released into the wild. Only to be picked up by an aspiring Rocket once again. Standing in a defensive position, it almost looked as if Lorne was going to refuse the battle until the Nidorino attacked himself, both physically and with a harsh phrase of words. The poison sting was easily shrugged off but the words what the Nidorino had grunted caused both Lorne and Tenebrae to stare wide eyed in horror. Almost ready to break down at this point, the young Cubone hung his head sadly as the rain continued to pour. His fists tightening, Tenebrae couldn't understand why the Nidorino would say such a horrible thing. To Sharada's surprise, the Zorua snapped back in his own tongue, "Curse you Nidokin and your pathetic insult! There was no need to say such a thing!" Tilting her head, Sharada knew that the vicious growl from the Nidorino likely translated to something horrible, otherwise Tenebrae wouldn't have butted in. "What is it? What did it say?" Trying to bottle his rage, the Pokemon clenched his jaw shut with a snarl expression. Not that his input was needed by the end.

Sadness moving away and being replaced with anger, Lorne shot the Nidorino a deathly glare before lifting up his bone club. Throwing it with a lunge of his arm, the bone went spiralling out of control, spinning forward and striking his opponent once, being more than enough to knock it out cold. The sight bringing a smirk to even Tenebrae's face, Sharada still felt a little lost, "What? What is going on?" Pausing, the trio then witnessed a Nidorina emerging, dragging off the fainted brother of her kind and fleeing into the wilderness. All was quiet for a moment as Sharada tried to wrack her brain around what just happened when all of a sudden, Lorne sat in the middle of the ground and burst into tears. "Lorne!!" Together, Sharada and Tenebrae approached the sobbing Pokemon, kneeling down to his height be still being cautious incase he lashed out at them. "Ooh Lorne. Are you alright?" His sobbing continuing, Tenebrae slowly looked up, "The Nidokin mentioned his mother dying." Hearing of the case of Cubone mothers dying back in Kanto, Sharada pulled an angry expression of her own, "If you would've told me... I would've smacked that Nidorino myself!!" Feeling rage bubble up inside of her, it seemed that there were just as many bully Pokemon as there were humans. "How dare it say such a thing..."

Punching a fist into the ground, she turned to Lorne in hopes of making him feel better. "You came out on tops though Lorne, you put him in his place. You don't need to listen to Pokemon like that, you're much stronger than any of them." Sniffling slightly, the Cubone looked over to her with glistening eyes. Gulping, Sharada knew that he didn't particularly like physical contact but surely this was a moment to overlook that rule. Lifting a hand, she confidentially placed it on top of his skull before smiling down to him, "You will always be a part of our family, Lorne." Caressing him ever so gently, the sniffling slowly came to a halt until randomly, he began to shine with a bright flash. Retracting her arm to cover her face, this was the last thing Sharada had expected.

As the light died down, Sharada wearily looked up from her hands, pausing as what stood in front of her was now something other than a Cubone. "Lorne. Is that really you?" Turning slowly with a strong grasp on his club, the new Pokemon stared at Sharada with his blood red eyes. Looking incredibly intimidating, Sharada felt her heart thump against her chest. Had she angered him to the point of evolution? But then, all of a sudden, the opposite happened. It was impossible to see a smile but his eyes closed, almost cheerfully. Calling out once or twice, a smile even crept over Tenebrae's face, "I think he is saying thank you!" "Haha, for what? Silly Lorne!" Patting his skull once again, it seemed one of her team members had evolved, gaining a dramatically different personality.

OOC: Ignoring False Swipes and Roost. Evolving Cubone because he has reached level 28.

[The REAL Joey]

Considering Lorne had just evolved, it was of no real surprise that such an immense outpouring of energy had been enough to drive off would be encounters in the area from meeker creatures. That as well as the remaining Nidokin. Considering how easily one of their up and coming hopefuls had been so easily swatted aside, it meant that they were not set back by another generation entirely before they had any chance of returning to their former rule of the area. Now a fading memory, it meant that the route now actually had some chance of fairness with other species thriving. Already, it was becoming quite clear that with the Nidokin pushed back, another species in itself was starting to become more predominant. In fact, this species itself was one Sharada had already encountered along the route in the form of Stantler. Without the poisonous and rowdy Nidokin around to push them about, it meant the caribou like mammal was now establishing a pack of their own.

With one of their scouting members already felled at the hands of Sharada's Pokemon and exploring the route, it meant word had travelled back fast to the centre of the herd. Not wanting to be shown up as badly as the Nidokin had done with the onslaught of their kind, it meant other Pokemon were keenly learning from their mistakes. Galloping defiantly through the winding pathway of the wilderness and onto the main route itself, a rather impressive Stantler seemingly came out of nowhere as it emerged from the shrubbery. Snorting its nostrils with an angry force, it had honed in on Sharada and the presence of Lorne getting stronger. Pokemon evolution itself was a mysterious force and a force in itself that was easily picked up upon by other Pokemon. If anything, finding her was like a moth being drawn to the flame. Scraping its hoof against the muddied ground, the Stantler stared down the trainer without so much a hesitant blink in its eye. Given its proud antlers amplified its foreboding stare, it meant this was likely to be a fairly strong test of Sharada and her team's ability. This was none other than one of the leaders of the Stantler herd. A sudden crackle of lightning, it flashed over the Stantler's body, once again added to the distorted effect its antlers were creating.



Encounter

---

A prideful Stantler (Level 28) stares down Sharada!
Please select a Pokemon for battle.
Rain will be effect.

[Morrigan]

Still focusing on the evolution of Lorne, both Sharada and Tenebrae knelt down in front of the Marowak, congratulating him on this change. Being enough to distract Sharada from the storm around them, despite the occasional flinch, the trio seemed to be simply chatting in the rain. "...So, now that he has evolved, he feels better in himself. Thus, putting his past behind him? That is so brave of you, Lorne." Through the wind and the rain, Tenebrae had been able to translate the Marowak's words, expressing that his constant distress was due to the loss of his mother and being held captive by Team Rocket. He tried to run away from them but was quickly then captured by Sharada but since evolving and becoming a Marowak himself, he felt that he could finally stand up for himself. Tapping his thick club against the ground and grunting with a few stern nods, he seemed content with how Tenebrae conveyed his story. Sharada's head suddenly jolting forward, the brunette let out a sneeze, likely due to their time spend in the rain. "Are you alright?" Tenebrae questioned, looking to Sharada alongside Lorne. Laughing it off, the brunette waved a hand in the air, "Y-Yeah. I guess we have been in this rain for a while." Noticing they were in a bit of a clearing, she slowly stood to her feet, "We still need to find somewhere safe. C'mon."

Turning on the spot, the sight she suddenly saw mixed with a crash of thunder and lightning made the hair on the back of her neck stand on end. Standing much closer than she expected was a Stantler, much larger than the previous one that had approached them during the storm. It's large antlers sending shivers and goosebumps across her entire body, even Tenebrae felt his bottom lip quiver. Knowing that he was the one who faced the previous Stantler, he could sense the emotion of revenge and dominance oozing from this one. "Hmph. What's up with this guy." Sharada muttered under her breath, noticing that Tenebrae was shivering nervously by her side. Not wanting to use him, the young female looked down to Lorne who had incredibly already stepped forward. Clapping the bone club into his other hand in an intimidating manner, he was not at all put off by the size difference and if anything, wanted to use such a big opponent to test his new bone club on. The corner of her lips smirking nervously, Sharada pulled Tenebrae toward her protectively whilst calling out her order. "Lorne, use Bonemerang!"

[The REAL Joey]

The rain pouring down in a climatic manner, it did wonders for setting the stage for a rousing battle between two powerhouses. Lorne's newfound confidence and ability against a proven and hallowed leader of its species. Patting the club in his hand menacingly, the Marowak was a far cry from the Cubone it had been before. Snorting its nostrils so that visible steam poured out, the Stantler didn't seem the least bit swayed. Merely carving its hoof into the ground below, it was clear the two were going to face off for dominance, droplets of rain splashing off the outline of their bodies as they stood their ground. Allowing her Pokemon to step up to bat, Sharada yelled out an order for Lorne to follow. Given how impressive his thick club was, there was no doubt it was going to have enough force to rival that of a wrecking ball. Sadly, the moment Sharada yelled, the Stantler sprung into action. Despite how lumbering its impressive set of horns were, the Pokemon was an agile opponent to face. Lurching off to the side and then springing to the opposite side in a diagonal manner, it was with these swift moments that really hit home how fast it was.

Conversely, as fast as it was, the alternating pattern was becoming all too predictable and with a leer of his eyes, Lorne leaned forward with a menacing stance as he slammed his club's tip into his open palm and gripped onto it as if bracing for impact. Hoping to anticipate where the Pokemon would land, the Stantler let out enough belligerent snort as it became clear the Pokemon had lulled the lot into a false sense of security. Making one more diagonal leap, it seemed worthwhile betting it would have enough space to prance off to the side once more. Instead the Pokemon continued its course and with its legs trampling down like the angry thunder roaring in the sky, made short work of the distance to go between it and Lorne. Leaping up with a measured strain of its hind legs the Pokemon leapt high into the air before coming trampling down ontop of Lorne. Reacting at the very last milisecond having moved to the side to counter at the original predicted line of offence, the Pokemon had raised up his mighty bone club and hoped to deflect the majority of the blow. Straining against the full take down the Stantler had exacted, Lorne felt his back strain before he was popped flying out from below the Stantler's hooves and went tumbling backwards with what felt like a never ending roll.

Ungracefully messing up himself as he went through all the muddied puddles, the poor Marowak would eventually come to an end as he struck his thick club down into the ground to give some resistance to the force of the blow. Struggling to get up, Lorne instead decided to yank his bone club out of the ground and make good of Sharada's order. Taking a quick aim, he lobbed the club forward akin to that of a boomerang. Despite its dissimilar appearance, the aerodynamics of the weapon were apt enough for it to continue flying onwards. Spinning perilously towards the Stantler, the Pokemon let out another snort as it had only just recovered from the recoil of the blow it had dished out. Barely reacting in time, the Pokemon dodged its body out of the way but sadly, its impressive horns would be its undoing. Given it always found pride in these mighty antlers, it was somewhat ironic they would be its undoing. Smashing into the left side with such impressive force the bone antlers crumbled like a china plate, the Stantler let out a rueful cry over the overwhelming pain. Leaving himself open, the move was far from over. Circling around and returning to Lorne, the bonemerang made short work of the other remaining set of the pair. Leaving the Pokemon antlerless, the Pokemon fell to the ground almost lifeless. The falling remaining relentlessly flooding on it from above.



Wild Battle

---

Stantler | _ | Level 28 |
Health : 0% (0/87 HP)
Status : KO'd
...

Lorne | ♂ | Level 28 |
Health : 66% (53/80 HP)
Status : Normal
To the graveyard with you

---

Weather status: Rain

---

Victory!

---

Your Marowak fought courageously and has gained 1400 Exp!
Lorne also gains +1 Happiness!


Your Hawlucha observed brilliantly and gains +1 level!

---

[Morrigan]

A crackling of thunder boomed across the heavily clouded sky, rain mercilessly pelting down at the earth, hitting all which stood in it's path. Feeling the droplets strike her face, despite being fairly sheltered by the surrounding trees, the weather was actually the second thing on Sharada's mind as she was now faced with a vengeful Stantler. After attacking a potential member of it's herd only moments earlier, it was no wonder why this Stantler had chased after them but fighting in these weather conditions had made Sharada feel uneasy. Looking wearily from left to right, she thought she could see numerous other antlers of Stantler lurking in the surrounding woodland but as they were also known for their illusive powers, she tried to shrug off this dangerous feeling. "I hope Lorne can handle this." Sharada mumbled under her breath, gaining a glance from Tenebrae. "The ground is soaked thanks to the weather, he might find it difficult to fight something that is perhaps used to this. After all, Lorne has always been sheltered and..." Stopping mid sentence, her tired eyes blinked slowly before a hesitant smile appeared across her face. "How many times do I say that? Hah... It's amazing I have managed to travel this far, what with how little I want my Pokemon to battle for me."

Looking down to her muddied hands, she clenched one into a fist, whilst the other hung around the shoulders of Tenebrae. "I don't want you guys to always have to fight for me. If I can avoid battles in the future, I would. To do that, I gotta get stronger. I need Garcian for that." His ears drooping, Tenebrae seemed to disapprove with her urge of learning how to fight, especially from within the scummy ranks of Team Rocket. Grumbling a sigh, the two looked on at the battle, nervously watching how Lorne would be able to handle such a large and intimidating Stantler. Standing tall, the Pokemon galloped through the rain and mud, setting Lorne up to follow a pattern of movement only to change and attack randomly. Lured into a false sense of knowing, the Marowak took the attack and was sent hurtling through the sludge of mud. He had managed to stand up once again and with careful aim, let out an attack of his own. Showing off immense strength, his thick club caused both sets of the Pokemon's antlers to shatter completely.

Together, the trio watched the Stantler slump weakly to the floor, the battle finishing with a final crash of lightning. Once again suffering from the feeling of being watched, Sharada felt the hairs on the back of her neck stand on end. Tenebrae hadn't mentioned anything but she still didn't feel like hanging around. Lifting up a ball, she congratulated Lorne and withdrew him for a rest. Turning to Tenebrae, the duo made it to a much safer location and hid throughout the rest of the storm. After what seemed like hours, the rain began to grind to a halt, leaving only a dull wind and Overcast atmosphere. Emerging from their hiding spot, still soaked from head to toe and slathered in mud, the weather had atleast stopped and with it, came more adventure. Feeling better within herself now that she wasn't haunted by this reminding fear of hers, the brunette could travel with a bit of weight lifted from her shoulders. "Phew... Looks like the storm has passed. Let's move on, Tenebrae."

- Weather has changed to Overcast. -