Once More Unto The City [F]

[Tyger]

Ponyta stood his ground, angrily shoving his hooves into the grass in front of him in an attempt to be as threatening as possible. While it was true, the herd had somewhat hoped the sheer number of Pokemon would frighten away the smoke man. But, instead, he had stayed, much to Ponyta's enjoyment. He'd enjoy watching the light of battle lust die from the man's eyes when the sheer number of Pokemon forced him to flee. Besides, Ponyta was bred for battle, and this Porygon-Z couldn't stand up to five of them. 

The words did ring true. They'd heard the command before, and Ponyta was ready. He wanted to make sure that the man knew that he was in charge of the little group here, and that he should be anihilated first, assuming the man could hit him. With a smug snort, Ponyta neighed for the horses to scatter. Using precise movements and almost coordinated running patterns, the horses began to scatter, circling around the pair as if this were a circus. Lateralus charged up his beam, and aimed for Ponyta. However, as soon as the beam left Lateralus, Ponyta charged. Immediately, the Porygon's aim turned to follow, but was too slow for the hit to connect. After Ponyta's expert evasion, it was their turn to show their anger and enact their revenge.

First, Ponyta galloped first. Charging head first towards the death machine was risky, and the other Ponyta were in awe of his courage. Right before he was nose to nose with Porygon, the Ponyta whipped around the opposite direction and kicked at Lateralus twice. The impact made the machine rattle, but it stood, undeterred. Following their leader's example, the Ponyta continued their ring of fire manuever, spitting hot embers at the machine. While one didn't hurt, the collective assault managed to take it's toll. Had Lateralus hit, things might've been different...

                           

                                   

    
All Ponyta - 33/33
Successful Ember, Successful Ember, Successful Double Kick, Successful Ember, Successful Ember

Joey's Lateralus
HP - (69/91)
Hyper Beam Misses! 

[The REAL Joey]

Staring down each and every one of the Ponyta herd, Tobias wasn't going to cower at their presence. It fell down to the age old following of quality over quantity and considering he had wrought Lateralus with his own two hands by programming him from scratch, Tobias was confident in his Pokemon's abilities. Whether that was a foolish or correct assertion was yet to be seen. As they scattered about fleeing from the words he had uttered, Tobias watched as this seemed to confuse Lateralus, who now had difficulty in locking on to any one target. "Hmph. I'm glad you embarrassments have learnt to flee at the sound of your impending doom." Remaining expressionless, Tobias went in for a jab at their brethren's demise. "Too bad your kin were not so intelligent. I doubt they even had time to reflect on their mistakes as the beam disintegrated them." Jeering further, he made clear he also had one of their number at his own beck and call. "I'll be sure to make sure your other kin enjoys their time under my command." As Hyper Beam rallied up and was fired off, Tobias' eye winced a small fraction as it became clear the move had missed. Impacting the environs around them, the land seemed to quake as the beam rattled the floor beneath them.

Observing as the Ponyta took this as a chance to overwhelm Lateralus, Tobias remained deadly serious as he watched with his stern, icy gaze. Five against one would surely test the Pokemon's defensive capabilities. As they all began their assault, Tobias yelled out over the sound of their pillaging hooves. "LATERALUS! Initiate defensive mode, execute!" It may not have been an outright protection from their rampage but it meant his Pokemon wouldn't be so open. Watching as their leader appeared to inspire a wave of courage amongst his peers, Tobias muttered under his breath. "Tch... We'll have to make sure their inspiring hope is torn from them. It's clear, as that fool brazenly acts, the others follow its lead." Snickering, Prometheus enjoyed the idea of their valiant leader being made to lose in front of his companions. Looking down at his C-Gear, Tobias watched as Lateralus withstood their attacks albeit suffering some damage in the process. "Hm. A mere setback. I have suffered far worse than to be intimidated by the likes of you imbeciles." Tightening up his tie back up to his collar, Tobias realised he'd have to fight cruel in order to triumph in this fight. "I may be outnumbered but i'll never be outgunned." Pointing his finger forwards, Tobias made clear of his strategy.

"Lateraus; initiate target locking protocols. Target: Herd Leader Ponyta." As his artificial Pokemon began running its targeting program, Tobias kept his own eye trained exactly on the Pokemon that appeared to be the leader of the herd. "You were lucky last time. But now, i'll make sure you enjoy the same fate your family member suffered." Clearing his throat as he went to command his Pokemon with his rehearsed orders, Tobias was not going to be relenting any time soon. "HB inhibitors unlocked. Hyper Beam module, execute. On my mark..." Aware the Ponyta would likely take evasive manoeuvres once more, he at least had narrowed down his target, Tobias took the opportunity to strike. "Hyper Beam cannon... FIRE." Turning his gaze back down to the C-Gear he watched as the battle was relayed back in real time to his recording. He definitely had a lot of analysis to go through later.

[Tyger]

Ponyta snorted as smugly as it could manage. The death machine had missed, and despite the warmth of the beam almost catching his rear as he ran, he'd outrun the beam. He'd done it. His cocky gaze inspired the others, who reared up and neighed their triumph. Now, the only thing they had to do was continue this up. If they managed to knock out the death machine, perhaps they'd scare off Smoke man for good. This would be quite the tale to tell the others back at the herd. He assumed they'd be over the hill anytime now to watch their slow victory. The Ponyta herd of Goldenrod would not be walked upon anymore.

The words from Tobias were clear. They'd heard them enough to understand what they were. The whispers in the herd were of fear, when these words were mentioned. Smoke man had made quite the name for himself. And, his little red monkey as well, although, it hardly did anything from what they could tell. Ponyta knew that he'd be targetted, so the only thing he could do was hope that he'd be able to outrun the beam once more. The death machine fired itself up once more, and Ponyta reared up, beginning his charge. However, he made sure to zigzag. His herd followed suit, just to make sure they weren't caught in the crosshairs. However, the machine had learned, and aimed.

No!

The beam seemed to slow down, inching towards Ponyta while time drug his body down, slurring his movements and actions. The harder he pulled his body to the side, the harder time weighed against him, as if this were a sick joke. However, as the beam hurtled towards him and his body attempted to move, another body had placed itself in front of him...


Time sped back up, and the beam caught one of his followers on his hocks, knocking him clear back a ways. The creature was instantly knocked out, but not disentigrated. There was no full on beam. Perhaps if they managed to only get hit on the sides, and not head on... He conveyed his plan to his team, and they got to work. Guilt had first tugged at Ponyta's mind when he realized that one of his friends had taken the hit for him. He'd expected to become a pile of ash as soon as the realization hit that the beam wouldn't miss. However, the guilt went away when his friend was fine. As long as they played it safe, this game of Russian Roulette could continue. Three Embers and a Double Kick later, Lateralus was looking worse for wear.

Ponyta craned his neck to see what Tobias's expression was. The equine drug his hoof across the ground and nickered in an almost jeering, taunting tone.

  

                                   

    
All Ponyta - 33/33
Successful Double Kick, Successful Ember, Successful Ember, Successful Ember

Joey's Lateralus
HP - (50/91)
Hyper Beam Hits, I guess...

[The REAL Joey]

His eye viewing the coding data returning back to him on the screen, it was clear he had a perfect strategy and everything was going according to plan. The heuristics he had employed to help stabilise the missed attack had come into play and his target locking had made sure Lateralus was now trained on the leader of the bunch. The monitor also showed to him that the attack power was rising with optimum results. In some cases, it had been reported that the hyper beam build up had been far too quick and resulted in impaired or even self damaging results. With it now firing off and the vicinity around them warping in colour as the beam hurtled through the air, Tobias' eye remained affixed to the monitor when something very unexpected had happened. His targeting program was flawless, he had designed so himself, the Pokemon he had been targeting was none other than the herd leader also but when an equated lackey threw itself in harm's way, it meant that his entire calculation had been thrown askew. His temple pulsating angrily, Tobias finally looked up as the beam died down. Without even having to look at his C-Gear, he could tell four were left.

And was this made ever clear as they then took their side of the turn to retaliate with attacks. Observing as Lateralus took on an array of embers and a damaging double kick of the Ponyta's hooves, Tobias grounded his teeth from side to side before relenting and closing his eyes as if to reclaim some calmness. If anything, he had eroded one of their number. Annoyingly, it appeared to still be alive. An unexpected turn of events but one he could calculate for later. "Oh. Dear me. What a worthless leader if they have to rely on their lackeys to take hits for them. Quite cowardly behaviour. You may live to run another round but your time is ticking. I sincerely hope you don't think you can body your other comrades. Wouldn't want them losing faith in their almighty leader, hmph." Whilst they still fought on, Tobias hope this would at least demoralise them. How could a unit function if their lead failed to protect their keep from danger? Looking down to the C-Gear, he assessed Lateralus energy as well as the fact Hyper Beam he would have to recharge. "An annoying side effect... Never mind. Once you are recharged, unlock HB inhibitors once more, Lateralus. And when ready, aim target protocols on target: Ponyta leader." Not quite finished, he returned with a blunt, carefree order of his move when it would be ready. "Fire Hyper Beam."

OOC:

Hope it's alright to do this. Most moves like Fly, Dig etc always eat up two turns so I thought same would be for Hyper Beam. Seems a waste replying with no order when I can endure the no turn move and then attack thereafter.

[Tyger]

The Smoking man's jeers meant nothing to Ponyta. He expected them, truly, and didn't allow himself to take it to heart. Instead, he turned his head to reinspect the body of their fallen herd-mate. Fainted, but still breathing. The others checked occasionally, before turning back to Ponyta for his direction. His attacks seemed to be doing the most damage, but that didn't deter his followers from easing up on their attacks. Ponyta automatically shifted to the defensive, before cocking his head to the side in surprise. Death Machine wasn't firing?

Come to think of it, after they'd played defensive for so long after each attack, it did make sense. The beam needed to charge up, or cool down, or both! Ponyta nickered in glee before turning to his friends, informing them of this... information. Deeming it best to attack while the machine was recharging was the overall consensus, so Ponyta charged forward once more, his three comrades behind him to dish out their fiery embers, and he his Double Kick. He made sure to attempt to scuff up some of the dirt towards Tobias as well. It'd be a shame of the Smoke Man got dirty.

However, the sounds of Lateralus recharging his beam were apparent, so the defensive measures were taken. Snorting, Ponyta began his normal dodging and zig zagging as best he could. The beam rocketed out of Lateralus, although the blast was far too bright and violent to determine where from. This time, yet again, another Ponyta took the blow, but this time, there was no saving it. There were no ashes, but there was a corpse by the end of the ride. Ponyta shrieked, hooves stamping into the ground as he nuzzled the neck of the fallen Ponyta. The strangest sight, however, was the lack of fiery mane and tale. He watched, mournfully, as they died out and the heaving chest of his friend ceased to rise and fall.

Anger welled up inside of Ponyta. One friend alive, and one dead. One previously killed. How much more could his heart take?! Smoke Man must fall. Angrily, fires burning brighter than before, the Ponyta charged forward like a locomotive, steamrolling towards the Porygon. However, it was clear that the horse had other ideas, and wanted to go after Tobias. However, Lateralus ended up being the target either way, recieving a swift pair of kicks to his body. Embers soon followed, before the remaining Ponyta rubbed their sooty noses in respects for their fallen friend. Tobias jeered at Ponyta's leadership, but perhaps this did speak a bit more about the horse. Perhaps his followers and comrades - his friends- and their willingness to take a killing shot for him spoke more than the Smoking Man's jeers. Either way, Lateralus was looking worse for wear, and Ponyta hoped he could keep it that way. Snorting a tuft of Smoke, he found irony in the situation. Ponyta smoked too, but in a different way. Perhaps he could show Tobias sometime. The crackling screams as he fell to the fires he was so fond of seemed a fitting fate.

  

                                   

    
All Ponyta - 33/33
Successful Double Kick, Successful Ember, Successful Ember, Successful Ember
Successful Double Kick, Successful Ember, Successful Ember

Joey's Lateralus
HP - (17/91)
Lateralus is recharging!
Lateralus uses Hyper Beam!


(Tyger OOC: Yeah, I had planned on avoiding that, just for the sake of the plot, but you're more than willing to! However, this does put Lateralus in a bit of a spot. Better that way, IMO <3 Otherwise, we skipped out on 41 damage that way xD)

[The REAL Joey]

Showing very little emotion to the herd of Ponyta which was now starting to thin in number, it would be Tobias' pet monkey, Prometheus that would act as a would be mirror for his emotions. Starting to cackle incessantly as he leaned backwards and forwards on the male's shoulder, it was clear the cheeky Pansage was finding this entire affair hilarious. Not only had they bum rushed them with superior numbers but they were starting to fall apart at the seems. Of course Lateralus wasn't looking to good for wear but the monkey knew his trainer had some tricks up his sleeves to even the odds. As Lateralus made another further attempt at launching off a Hyper Beam, the duo were seen looking away to avoid themselves from going blind. It was only when Tobias resumed looking at his C-Gear that Prometheus picked up the courage to look at the scene of battle. It appeared another Ponyta had been stricken off thanks to the awesome move. Laughing cruelly to himself, Prometheus paused as he realised Tobias wasn't sharing such a similar view. "Hmph. Once again the leader has let his pawns... Sorry. Friends take the burden of battle." Looking up at the group, it was hard to tell them apart but it appeared Tobias had tagged the Pokemon via his device to pin point which was which.

Having concluded the leader was still present, it would turn out to be no surprise as the very same Pokemon in question came thundering forwards and kicked up a cloud of dirt from the very same attack that hit Lateralus. Looking down ruefully at the Pokemon, the very look on Tobias' eye was one of pure murder. When his Porygon-Z's attack connected it might even mean he develops some out of character boost to his spirits and let his hair down. Instead, brushing off a patch of the dust that had settled on the breast of his jacket, he cleared his throat and watched as the two other lackeys fired off more embers. "From the current projections my C-Gear is informing me... Hm. Very well. I was hoping to have blown you all to smithereens in one fell swoop but that miss at the start has cost me." Looking back up to Lateralus, the way his holographic like virtual Pokemon flickered, it was clear that it wouldn't be long before he was in a tight situation. His eye darting to the leader of the Ponyta, even Tobias didn't need to rely on his device to tell the Pokemon had a deep seated hatred loathing his very being.

"I do so dearly hope that you aren't under the false impression you've got the advantage here. Quite the contrary." Taking out a potion from his inner jacket pocket, he presented the purple bottle but rather than spray his Pokemon with it to care for his Pokemon's wounds, he took out a wired extension from his C-Gear and attached it to the nozzle of the potion. Spraying the device, he watched as the healing remedy was transmitted digitally to Lateralus, recovering his scrambled coding and reinvigorating the lagging creation. It was a modest boost to his health but it meant that Tobias had at least another shot at wiping the leader of the face of this planet. "Hmph. I suspect this feeling you've been hit with is something of absolute despair. Pure hopelessness." Loading up his C-Gear as he began making the appropriate commands to set up for another Hyper Beam, he concluded his thoughts on their chances. "This is truly an exercise in futility." His eye piercing at the leader with the sharpness of a dagger, he made one very quick addendum to what he had mentioned. "I also have more of where that came from." Having manually input the commands to get his Lateralus up and running for the move, he flicked off the inhibitors and let known his move for old times sake. "Lateralus; launch Hyper Beam, execute! Establish target protocol on Ponyta herd leader!" Despite his efforts to try and aim for the leader, at this point Tobias knew all too well one of the lackeys would simply sacrifice itself.

Item used:

x1 Potion (Auto-updating).

[Tyger]

Ponyta had seen the contraptions Tobias was using. Despite the Smoke man's jeers, he knew because Ponyta wasn't a stupid horse, and had battled before. It was the one-up that trainers had, and although it was unfortunate that the Death Machine would be healed, it also meant that Smoke Man had been drug into a corner. The jeers at Ponyta's leadership were coming in smaller waves, and Smoke Man wasn't as mouthy as he was from the start. Was it possible that Ponyta and his friends and comrades in arms were making a dent in this battle? One dead, and another fallen. Three more remained, and Ponyta would let himself be sacrificed this turn. No more bloodshed on his behalf.

Charging forward, hocks as high as they could go, Ponyta whirled around to kick the machine twice. Essentially, half of what he'd just healed had been obliterated with two kicks. When Ponyta's friends came in behind him, another handful of HP had fallen from the Porygon. Snickering to themselves, Ponyta's friends reared up in triumph. It was possible to take down the machine this turn. However, a heavy weight held them down. One of them would fall this turn. And, of course, they'd aim at Ponyta. His friends knew this, and discussed to themselves in secret which one would take the fall for their leader. However, Ponyta had different plans. As the Porygon sputtered back to life and charged up the Hyper Beam, Ponyta stood still, closer to the machine than he should. Before Ponyta's friends could react, Lateralus was firing. 

Ponyta jumped. Time seemed to slow once more for Ponyta. The beam hurtled at his nose, but as he jumped into the air, the beam rocketed under him. But how long would the beam last? He'd surely fall back into the stream if he didn't find a safer place to land than right under him. Throwing his weight in front of him took an agonizingly slow amount of time, considering the flow of time, until he realized this would put him right on top of Lateralus. Aiming to do so, Ponyta braced himself for impact. The impact of his hooves from the jump above the Hyper Beam damaged Lateralus, and could've possibly given him a scratch, but Ponyta didn't turn around to check. With the sudden attack, Hyper Beam was stifled, therefore leaving the trio of Ponyta alive to fight another round.

Ponyta galloped back to his side of the battle, afraid something could happen if Tobias got close enough to the horse to inflict such damage. The glares he got from the Smoke man were murderous at best. However, the other Ponyta took this as their cue to spew their embers, almost making a funeral pire for the hunk of machine. Lateralus, as smooth and sophisticated as he was, was looking worse for wear. Ponyta knew that this was a crucial moment in battle. It was possible to take down the Death Machine while it recovered from the harsh move. It was also possible that Tobias could heal Lateralus once more. It was also possible that Tobias could respect their wishes and leave. As much as Ponyta wanted to crush the machine, the choice was up to the man. Ponyta remained still, waiting for the trainer's choice. It would decide the rest of the battle. 

                                   

  
All Ponyta - 33/33
Successful Double Kick, Successful Ember, Successful Ember
Successful Double Kick, Successful Ember, Successful Ember

Joey's Lateralus
HP - (7/91)
Lateralus is healed for 20 HP!
Lateralus's Hyper Beam misses!


(Tyger OOC: Giving you the chance to heal or flee, as the horses will knock you out otherwise on Hyper Beam's recharge. Up to you~ I swear I saved that RNG file as 'OMG JOEY I'M SO SORRY' on my computer. But hey, at least Tobias is getting what for?)

[The REAL Joey]

His eye now simply just focusing on the battle at hand as opposed to viewing the world before him in programming code, he cavalierly took his sleeve over his wrist and did away with his C-Gear device. At this point, there was little need to record any more data at this point. Seeing his Pokemon take quite the battering from the heal, it was becoming probable that it would be difficult to hang in there even if the next attack of his Pokemon's hit. As the beam began to whir up and check the number of protocols it had to do before releasing its devastation, Tobias squinted his eye as he noticed the leader Ponyta was acting awfully footloose with its movements. "Hmph. An annoying predicament, especially if they are starting to overcome the basic target schemes I programmed up. That will need some fine tuning as well." At this point, it was no surprise to Tobias as the Pokemon simply jumped and in turn spared itself from the devastation of the attack. With the entire strategy down in the rubbish bin, he watched as the two other lackeys followed suit to add further insult to injury. Taking on a rather droll expression, Tobias took out Lateralus Pokeball and returned the artificial Pokemon back to the sanctuary of its Pokeball.

"So, you used your numbers to force a victory. It is of no consequence. At this point I will not allow any further permanent damage to my creation. I will return to base. Revitalise my Pokemon, fine tune its power, polish it's accuracies and I will be back." His eye glaring with deathly intent, he made very clear to the Ponyta what they should expect upon his reprisal. "And when I return, each and everyone of you will suffer an agonising defeat at the hands of my Pokemon's Hyper Beam." His lips turning into an oh so slight subtle smirk, Tobias was aiming to lessen the success of their victory here today and he spared no effort in pursuing this. "You're more foolish than you all act. The entire time you've been battling, i've been analysing, recording your data. You can run, you can attempt to hide but I will track you down. Your days are numbered." Extending out an arm to the rest of their comrades they had entered battle with, he made a small chortle before continuing. "And so I may yet to live another day whilst you have lost one of your own and the other in a grievous condition. Wonderful leadership. Bravo." Mock clapping his hands, Tobias made ready to retreat. 

Taking a step back, Tobias looking down upon them and tilted his head slightly. "Prometheus. If you will. Make sure these cretin are unable to follow us." Letting out a sneering chuckle, the fiery ape lifted up his arm dead straight and as if pretend mocking it into that of a gun, he began unleashing a round of shots, utilising the power of his Flame Burst. As each and every burst was fired, it made a small impact in the ground with a slight explosion and created a fierce fountain of fire that obstructed any easy means of pursuing them. "I do hope you'll be prepared. But realise i'll have my revenge on my own terms, not yours. So sorry you failed to avenge anything today truly." At this point, he cared little for the outcome of some wild horde battle and knew he'd be able to exact his revenge.

- Tobias retreats from the battle -

[Tyger]

Ponyta stood across the ways, narrowed eyes watching Tobias and Lateralus with extra caution. Smoke Man was a loose cannon, even more so than his death machine. I mean, it was true that the herd feared Lateralus, but much like a gun, all of the control was held by the one holding it. However, when it became apparent that Tobias was returning his machine and ceasing his attack, Ponyta held still. His friends behind him cheered and reared up, neighing into the crisp night air. The fallen Ponyta (the one that hadn't died) slowly came to, and struggled back onto it's hooves silently. It's eyes scanned the battlefield, and when it reached Tobias with no Lateralus, the creature let out a happy whinney. The others directed it's attention to their dead comrade, but there would be time for mourning later. 

Tobais's scathing snarls struck Ponyta hard. His leadership was lacking in some points, it was possible, but there was no need for the death threats. While his friends celebrated, the fires on the back and rear hocks of Ponyta burned brightly. Oh, Tobias would have a willing challenger to face. Sheer numbers and heart were what gained them this victory. The burned and angry would yell, and the triumphant few would celebrate. Tobias could retreat and lick his wounds for now, but he would be back. Ponyta knew this madman would keep his word. But, this battle meant many things for Ponyta. He'd have much more political standing within the herd. He'd probably become one of the main stallions. He'd probably even become full leader soon. He could evolve if he trained hard enough. Tobias could seeth on his own, but Ponyta was only going to continue to butt heads with the man.

The strange red monkey erected a fire barrier to keep Ponyta from following, but the wall wouldn't keep Tobias and his crew from hearing the neighs, snorts and happy sounds the four Ponyta released. They would mourn when the time came, but right now, their triumph had protected the herd for another night. Tobias would just have to snuff it. While retreating, it was possible that Prometheus had picked up a few things in his retreat. At this this night wasn't entirely for naught?



Prometheus picked up 3 Rawst Berries!
Probably to help with those burns.


Lateralus was a sport, and gained +1,500 EXP for the remaining Ponyta in the battle at time of retreat.


Lateralus gains +1 Level, +1 Happiness! (MAX)


-Tyger mod plot has been finished- 

[The REAL Joey]

Noticing Prometheus had scattered off from the perch on his shoulder, Tobias continued on walking but made the simian painfully aware that he should return post haste. "You have five seconds." He warned. It wasn't that he didn't trust his Pokemon wandering off but more the fact he required his warmth on his face to remain able to think things through properly. Given that it was still the dark of night and with severe lack of heat, it was a wonder he hadn't succumbed already. Thankfully, Prometheus was a swift collector and clambered after Tobias after swiping up the goods he had eyed. Shimmying back up Tobias back and then onto his shoulder, the fiery ape presented Tobias with a number of particular berries. Taking one as they continued to walk along at a pace, Tobias revealed what they were. "Hm. Rawst berries. Effective in handling burns." Taking the remainder that Prometheus had in his hands, he placed them for safekeeping into his suitcase. "I am not too sure if that is some ironic jest you have just found but i'll assume they were the spoils of our victory." Given how they how they had just had to flee from battle, it was probable it was some joke being played on them in getting healed up from those burns they received from having to escape. Nevertheless, it was something Tobias was keen to place at the back of his mind for now. They would get their comeuppance.

"For now, we shall make our way to Goldenrod itself. I've acquired more than enough field data, both good and bad to analyse. With this, I should be able to improve Lateralus' programming to be even more efficient." Looking on up ahead with a slight narrowing of his eye, it appeared they still had a ways off along route 34. If they could just maintain this last leg of the journey they would be back in Goldenrod and able to restock supplies and tidy up their images. Scratching his now overgrown beard, Tobias grumbled agitatedly. "Finally be able to shave off this overgrown mess." Shaking his head, he continued his strides but not before vowing one final thing to himself. "And once we have tidied ourselves up. I'll make good of my word. We'll hunt those Ponyta down and obliterate them." Sniggering at the thought, Prometheus nodded in agreement. Knowing full well Tobias intended to take them out one by one, it'd be interesting to see how good they'd fare by themselves. Journeying onwards still, Tobias stopped for a moment and panted. "Now that i'm properly traversing, this seems to tiring..." Attempting to get his breath back, he remained still for a few moments.

[Tiki]

Running right in front of him, from Goldenrod, was a kid panting and barely breathing. Next to him was a rather agile Psyduck trying to catch up. The water type, even though a bit more agile than its kind, was skipping on its ducky feet while the two hands were holding its head. Judging from the appearance, the Psyduck was likely holding its head from having too many blood rushing from the running. Though it wasn't like holding the head would stop the blood from rushing when a Pokemon was running.

"Sir, sir! Would you like to volunteer in the Goldenrod Kids Camp? We've been looking for some adult supervision while we help with the reforestation from the forest fire that happened like an hour ago!" the child, wearing green shorts, boy-scout shirt, and the green cap asked, while he was holding a shovel on one hand and a bag of what looked like seeds for the earth. "We heard it on the radio some time ago and I have been dying for this moment to get some volunteer hours! It's a volunteer service so we can't pay you, but Miss Ravin said you could get some snacks and drinks later. I think she is making a quick trip now for us kids volunteering in the camp!"

Then, seeing Tobias and the Pansear, the young kid finally clicked that he's a trainer. "Oh, you're a trainer right? I only have a Psyduck, and since we looked we can battle! Don't worry though, the service project just started so I can be a little late. I'll just miss out a couple minutes on my hours" The child happily explained and initiated the trainer battle, completely oblivious to what was going on. "My name is Tod, how did I forget my manner?" As if talking to stranger wasn't bad enough, he naively introduced his name to the stranger, with the most innocent grin on his face.

---

Camper Tod sent out his (Level 25) Psyduck!

[The REAL Joey]

Considering the length of their stay in route 34, it had been a surprising fact that they had not actually come across any Pokemon trainers. Their endeavour to find simply Pokemon of the wild had been so successful that they had likely evaded all the trainers in the area. What chance it would be that the one time he actually wished to return back to base that he was interrupted by the arrival of a fellow trainer. Stopping dead in his tracks, Tobias felt himself getting irritable. Not only did this youthful sport have something of an annoying voice but he was getting low on his nicotine, having got through an entire packet of cigarettes from earlier in the evening. As the boy cried out, Tobias glared ominously with his only eye staring down the boy. As he listened disinterestedly to what the youth had to say, Tobias brushed aside his request. "Hmph, there'll be plenty more deforestation once i'm through with this route and those pesky Ponyta who bothered me earlier." With what he had in mind, it included devastating the entire route with an amplified Hyper Beam that would quite literally turn everything to dust.

Coming back into reality, Tobias arrived back to the point where the camper known as Tod introduced himself. "Tod? You are in my way. I have no time for antics. Go and find someone your own age to bother." Taking a Pokeball from inside of his jacket, he tossed it forward knowing full well this child was likely going to stick to him annoyingly if something wasn't done about it. The sheer fact he didn't bother to check which Pokemon it was said it all in the way he really didn't want to be here with some goody goody boy scout. As the light disappeared from the opening of the Pokeball, it became apparent he had summoned Asmodeus. Leaning forwards, his face full of a a disturbing fright and his fingers twiddling away manically, it was clear the Drowzee was ready to get up to no good. "Asmodeus, spare me the theatrics. Use Confusion on that lame duck and get me home." Shifting his attention back to Tod, Tobias muttered ruefully, in total juxtaposition to Tod's cheery, innocent smile. "You've picked a wrong time to come bothering me." This would be backed up by Asmodeus letting out a chilling cackle as he began concentrating his innate psychic ability to confuse the Psyduck's mind.

[Deleted]

Camper Tod could not believe the words coming out of Tobias's mouth. The young lad had heard of mean people before but this guy sounded like a real jerk. The kind of person who would hang out with Genghis Khan and he did not like it one bit at all. Being a nature freak he was outright insulted by the way Tobias spoke. Not to mention the fact that the man seemed rather rude lacking any form of respect for the child at all. As Tobias finished speaking the young lad knew the only way he would get shown any respect by this man at all was if he managed to win the battle that he had challenged Tobias to.

" I cannot believe how heartless your words are. Without the forest and the trees no life could exist. How could you ever want to destroy nature are you some kind of mad scientist or are you just flat out idiot thinking it is alright to speak of nature in such a way. I guess me and my Psyduck are going to have to teach you about both respect for nature and people as well as loving nature. Are you ready Psyduck this guy looks pretty tough but I think we can find a way to win." He said as Psyduck stood in front of the Drowzee looking at it like it was some kind of freak show as if it's own looks were not comical enough to be a part of that same show.

" Show this jerk some respect with your Water Pulse and make him see the error of his ways." The young lad said as Psyduck shot a wave of supersonic water at Asmodeus. The Drowzee quickly recovered from the attack before his eyes began to turn blue. As Psyduck gazed into his eyes the Duck began to rock back and forward nearly falling over. By the time Asmodeus ended the attack the duck was wobbling all over the place unable to make heads or tails of anything. Camper Tod looked rather worried as he knew Psyduck had been confused.

" Dang it I forgot to bring a Full Heal or any other healing item for that matter. Sorry buddy but it looks like you are going to have to ride this battle out despite being confused. I have faith that you will still find a way to win." He said as Psyduck randomly began to disco dance for no apparent reason outside of it's confusion.


Trainer Pokemon Battle

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Camper Tod's Psyduck: | Level 25|
Health: 81% (54/67 HP)
Status: Confused
Which way did he go George?

Tobias's Asmodeus: | Level 24 |
Health: 73% (51/70 HP)
Status: Normal
Abra, Kadabra, You are now confused!

[The REAL Joey]

Taking an even deeper resentment of the boy's presence, Tobias listened in length to Tod's spiel as he blathered on about the balance and importance of nature. The very words he spouted were clearly a mixture of what he had been told and his own very grasp on the matter. Shaking his head, Tobias stared the boy coldly in his eyes and replied with a very blunt response. "Silence. It is clear you are merely regurgitating what you've learnt at school in a less than complete manner. You are but a mere child hoping to sound grown up by repeating what has been drilled into you." Noticing that the boy eventually resorted to the use of his Pokemon, Tobias grunted as he seemed to be a lot keener on that trait of the boy's character. "Hmph, that is more like it. A boy of your age should be listening to his natural instincts. That of fights and wildness." Remembering back to his own youth, it was one of militant regimen and bleak uniformity. He cared little for the boy's well being but he hoped his words would at least inspire something in the boy.

Observing closely as Tod commanded the move to his Pokemon, Tobias remained still with a poker face expression masking his true thoughts. He didn't expect much from the youth's Pokemon but that was a fairly powerful move for such an underwhelming looking Pokemon in terms of appearance. Having never really put much faith in Asmodeus' battle prowess aside from his ability to influence others, Tobias was unsure of the true outcome. At this point of the game it was anyone's guess. Watching as his manipulator Pokemon was drenched with a pulsating blast of water, Tobias was careful to take a step back in order to be kept dry from any rogue splashes. A fact Prometheus was incredibly grateful for given his aversion to the element. Thankfully, Asmodeus was quick to retaliate and as he watched the Psyduck suffer a psychic barrage that ultimately tipped the scales for the time being. Noticing the Psyduck looked a lot more unstable than usual, Tobias was keen to make the camper aware of this.

"A pity, I doubt he will be able to show much in such a state." This sentiment was solidified further as the Pokemon began a bizarre dance. "Hmph, at this rate, it'll be as useful as a landed Magikarp." Taking an authoritative tone as he called out, he made sure Asmodeus would take advantage of this opportunity. "Asmodeus. Launch a further Confusion. Impede his sense from regaining." Letting out a goofy yet insidious cackle, the Drowzee stomped forward, his fingers wriggling incessantly as his snout trunk wobbled about in an unsettling manner. Leering his eye, Tobias made clear that there would be no manipulating going on. "No." Freezing still, Tobias made explicitly clear not to indulge his sick, twisted perversions. "The boy is off limits. Do anything to alter the boy's mind and there will be consequences." Gulping, Asmodeus hesitated before instead turning his attention to the Psyduck instead. Sneering his face a little, Tobias looked back to the boy and decided he wanted a question answered. "Boy, you judge me for my lack of care over oh so glorious nature. But let's be honest. I'm keen to bet you hail from Goldenrod. A sprawling metropolis that is thoroughly urbanised and cares little for the well being of nature."

[Tiki]

Tod was slightly unsure what was going on, but he was trying his best to be brave against this older human. He replied boldly as he wasn't going to be bullied by a stranger, "Well, sir, at least I learned my manner at school. Just because I'm a child it doesn't mean I am not allowed to respect nature."

He, too, watched nervously at the battle, if he didn't win, how was he going to earn some respect from this rude adult? He gripped his shovel tightly to make sure that he was still focusing, and that he still have the item. Upon hearing that the man's Drowzee was gonna use psychic attack on him, he inaudibly gasped at the thought of an adult using Pokemon on humans. Perhaps this stranger was no match for his Kids Camp chaperone quest.

"Hang in there, Psyduck! Try to use Disable!" he hollered with a slight tremble in his voice, as he couldn't imagine what would a Confusion do to a child like him!

The confused Psyduck, after hearing the trainer's voice, stopped and shook off the confusion. Then, turning its attention back to the Drowzee, the water type's body and eyes glowed a soft cyan. Next thing the Drowzee knew, Asmodeus felt a headache just trying to summon the energy to cast a Confusion. He was really disabled from using that move.

Trainer Pokemon Battle

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Camper Tod's Psyduck: | Level 25|
Health: 81% (54/67 HP)
Status: Confused
Wakes up from Confusion!
Used a successful Disable!

Tobias's Asmodeus: | Level 24 |
Health: 73% (51/70 HP)
Status: Confusion disabled (Turn 1/4)
Confusion failed.