A Familiar Face [F]

[Tyger]

As the battle with Chatot came to it's dramatic close, a few tender moments between trainer and Pokemon were shared. However, as cute phrases were exchanged and bellies were rubbed and whatever else trainers and Pokemon did, the heat began to rise once more as the route was subjected to yet another steamy, hot heat wave. As the heat rose, it made everything ripple to distort vision and make it harder to progress. It was unfortunate that Remi wasn't to Violet yet, because a cool drink of water and the nice AC from the Pokemon Center would have been a godsend. Hopefully she was prepared, given she'd felt a wave earlier that day.

Many of the Pokemon around the route weren't equipped for the intense heat themselves. Mareep in particular. This one had wandered from it's rural farm and into the outskirts of Cherrygrove in search for something to do instead of walking around grazing, and had missed it's rancher and his shears. Of course, the taste of freedom was sweet, but the Summer heat was proving to be quite difficult as Mareep was cooking like a pot roast under all of that wool and fluff. Sticking to the shade helped, but as the heat intensified, no where was safe, not even the shade. Hearing the commotion from a battle ending, Mareep slowly began to walk, sweating from nose to tail. Perhaps there was a trainer that could take it to safety? Capture it? Block out the sun? Something?

Remi's distorted visage was strange as Mareep closed in on her, but the closer Mareep got, the better in focus Remi became. She was surrounded by other Pokemon, and as she progressed (must faster than Mareep, of course) Mareep watched with sadness as the train of Pokemon passed it before Mareep could signal the trainer. With a sad huff, it heaved itself out into the route to fall onto it's stomach, too tired to walk any further. It bleated out, attempting to catch the attention of the trainer, or at least the grass Pokemon that kept to the back of their formation. It stood up and waggled it's tail weakly. It would be willing to battle for water, or shade, or something. As long as that something beat the heat.




Wild Mareep heard some commotion! (Level 9)
Will you Fight or Flee?

[The REAL Joey]

Starting to feel the impact of the heatwave set in once more, Remi let out a exhausted huff as she struggled to deal with the lingering heat. Looking down to Momoha, she could tell the infant was struggling worse than the rest of the group. Looking somewhat feverish and a little panicked, Remi decided it would be best to travel in the sanctuary of her Pokeball. "Okay Momoha, time to go and rest, you've done a very good job today my extra special little girl." Smiling to her Pokemon as she returned her, she pocketed the contraption away before looking to Gex and sighing. "I'm feeling so dehydrated. Violet seems so far off, especially with this heatwave. If you can press on, I can do the same." Resolving herself to press on, Gex nodded but was wary for his friends state. Heat waves such as these could be debilitating and he didn't want Remi to suddenly collapse. She was made of sterner stuff but even someone like her could succumb to the throes of this melting heat. Before they could truly get going again, it appeared they had gathered attention from another Pokemon also suffering from a similar predicament to the heat. Turning around, Remi's face was filled with concern. "Gex! Look! That poor animal. It's woolly coat looks so heated in this weather... We need to do something." So ready to put aside the progress to help a Pokemon in need, the rookie trainer appeared to also have another plan in mind.

"Perhaps we could get two birds with one stone. Buffy is painfully shy of others so maybe we could gently introduce them and get Buffy to share a little water with the Mareep to cool it down." His arms folded, Gex gave a curt nod. It seemed good. On paper. But he kept his eyes affixed to the fore as he was pretty sure it was bound to go wrong. Carefully summoning her forward, Remi watched as the bundle of nerves looked around in terror as Remi calmly tried to explain the situation. "Hi Buffy. It's okay, please be calm. We just need to help our friend here and-- Oh my!" Bounding backwards and hiding into a nearby bush, it appeared the Azurill was simply not ready for such a big step. Now switched out of the fight, Remi was left without any sort of defence. Given the Mareep was hot and bothered, there was a potential chance it might lash out. Quickly resorting to another Pokemon, she sent forward Neptunia who appeared with bit of a snooty turn of its nose. "Neptunia, we need your help again to try and cool down the Mareep. Will you help? Please?" Letting out a belligerent snort, the Pokemon was not going to be moving unless it had an order it understood. "Please, serve up some water?" Furrowing her brow, Neptunia was ALMOST certain she had said surf. Looking back at the Mareep, the Horsea let out a sigh. It was close enough.

OOC: Place in Buffy first but swap out to Neptunia first turn and then use Surf.

[Silverfire]

The Wild Mareep looked at Remi in confusion as she recalled her Pokemon right after sending it out. When it saw Neptunia, it gave a shrug and started rubbing its wool together. The wool created a static electricity when rubbed together, and it got stronger the faster it was rubbed together. Once it felt like it had enough of a charge, it sent it flying towards Neptunia. It was a bit shocked to see the Horsea standing strong, as it had expected her to faint. It was even more surprised when Remi ordered Neptunia to use Surf. That wasn't going to do very much! The Mareep was quite wrong however, as it didn't get a chance to attack Neptunia again, as it was unconscious.

Neptunia grunted as she was sent out. The Mareep looked cocky, and she didn't really feel like dealing with it. Ah well. As it sent a bolt of electricity towards her, she barely flinched. Sure it hurt a bit, but it wasn't going to bring her to her knees or anything. She heard Remi call out her attack, and started filling her mouth with water. Once there was enough water, she sent a huge wave crashing towards the Mareep. She grinned as she saw that she knocked the Mareep out.

---

Wild Mareep level 9

Wild Mareep used Thunder Shock!
HP: 0/31 (%0)
Status: Normal
Wow you're strong!

Remi's Neptunia level 17

Remi's Neptunia used Surf!
HP: 28/42 (%67)
Status: Normal
That was too easy!

---

Salsa gained one level due to the EXP share!
Salsa is now level 3!

For beating her opponent, Neptunia gained a level!
Neptunia is now level 18!
For beating her opponent, Neptunia gained +1 happiness!
Neptunia now has +4 Happiness!
Neptunia is trying to learn Bubble Beam!
Would you like to forget a move and learn Bubble Beam?

For participating in the battle, Buffy gained a level!
Buffy is now level 13!
For participating in the battle, Buffy gained +2 happiness!
Buffy now has +6 Happiness!
Buffy is trying to learn Bubble Beam!
Forget a move and learn Bubble Beam?

Buffy is trying to evolve into a Marill!!
Will you allow this evolution?

---

You defeated the Mareep and can now capture it! Fill out the following information if you so desire!

[img]http://media.pldh.net/pokemon/gen4/hgss/179.png[/img]
[b]Mareep[/b]
Name: [choose]
Gender: [choose]
Level: 9
Moves: Growl; Tackle; Thunder Wave; Thunder Shock
Ability: Static
Nature/Personality: [choose]

[The REAL Joey]

Glad that Neptunia was able to swap in on time, it would be no surprise that it would first have to bear the brunt of what the Mareep would send their way. Clearly delirious from how hot the heat was, it meant that the sudden sparking of static electricity came as something of a shock to Neptunia. Closing her eyes as she let out a pained screech, it was thankfully not too long to endure. Not too bothered about the dehydrated plight of the Mareep, Neptune was keen for a little payback and if it meant it cooled down the sheep then that would be merely a nice coincidence. Flooding the area with a wave of water that it serenely surfed on top of, the opposition stood no chance. Seeing the Mareep at least drenched in water was enough for Remi to smile. "Yes! Thank you Neptunia. At least now the Mareep should be ok." Noticing the improvised attack had meant that it had knocked out the Pokemon, Remi looked over to where Buffy had disappeared off too. Noticing the Pokemon's diminutive ears pricking up, it seemed as if the turn of events had turned the tide in garnishing the Pokemon's attention. Slowly coming out, it appeared the traumatised Pokemon had put the skeletons in its closet away for the time being as it picked up on the plight of the Mareep.

Although it had received a forceful wave of water at it, the Pokemon was still panting as it struggled to keep conscious. Deciding to put aside its fears, the Azurill bounced out before standing before the Mareep. It was a big, fluffy creature but was it really going to hurt her? Bubbling up her cheeks, the Pokemon let out a rather small but concentrated stream of a water gun and doused the Pokemon from head to toe with the cool, refreshing move it had at its disposal. Slowly getting back to its feet, the Mareep let out a deeply grateful cry. Looking up in wonder, the Azurill appeared to realise that because with ad got over its fears, it had managed to do some good. Feeling happiness inside and not that of a turbulent fear, the Pokemon suddenly erupted in a bright light. "B-BUFFY?!" Cried out Remi. The light was blinding and she had an idea of what this process was now having seen other Pokemon undergo a similar change of evolution. But for Buffy to have began evolving, it meant that they had made some progress. As the light died down, it revealed Buffy's new form.

She was still a panic laden creature but there was some hope there as the Marill looked around nervously with a twitchy smile. "Buffy. You did incredible. For you to have come so far, you've really overcome some obstacles there. I know that experience with the Houndour wasn't particularly the nicest of events but it seems you're starting to overcome that ordeal." Smiling, Remi looked over to the Mareep. "And you, we can't have you dying from this heatwave. Come with us." Taking out a spare Pokeball, Remi slowly primed the ball and took the Pokemon in. "That was a rather opportune encounter. How about we press on to Violet still?" The group in unison, they continued on, wading through tall grass.

OOC: Boxing Mareep for now and we're on ORAS dex so no bubblebeam as of now.

[Tiki]

Continuing down the road to Violet City, the route's blazing heat seemed to faded as some rolling clouds in the air covered a part of the sun. The temperature dropped a little, but not significant enough to require a winter coat. Right now, the temperature was just the right temperature to be outside, as it was just fantastically pleasant!

After maybe 20 minutes of walking, Remi stumbled upon a younger girl who was resting on the route with her Pokemon. The girl sported a green uniform from head to toe, sitting on an Azurill patterned mat, eating a sandwich herself. On the other hand, her Pichu was chewing from a bowl of blueberries, and her Pikachu was eating some ripe oranges. The three looked like they were enjoying the weather until Remi came along.

"Hey you! Are you a trainer? My name is Katie and do you want to join us in picnic? If not, you could join us in a battle!" the young girl waved at Remi and her group, smiling innocently and happily that someone was nearby in this part of the route.

"Pika!" "Chu!" The two yellow colored Pokemon chimed in, after gulping down what their mouth was chewing. They two waved at the trainer happily. Pichu though, was exceptionally energetic, and also short, so it was hopping up and down to greet and get a better view. It also looked like Pichu was ready to go first. Also, the Pichu have some blueberry juice staining the around the mouth, but who's there to tell this happy Pichu about appearance?

---

Picnicker Katie's (Level 6) Pichu volunteer to go first!

OOC: normal weather for now. then wind could pick up if you're staying in CGC after this fight.

[The REAL Joey]

Wiping some sweat from her forehead, Remi's eyes scrutinised at the sky somewhat as she suddenly felt a somewhat pleasant breeze brush past her skin. "Could it be this heatwave is subsiding? Phew. If that kept on I would have had to found a place to swim in for a spell." Feeling invigorated, the team pushed on hoping to make short work of the distance between Cherrygrove to Violet. However, their progress would be impeded. Noticing another sign of life off along the route, Remi walked on as she came closer to what appeared to be a young picnicker enjoying the turn of events with the weather with her Pokemon. Smiling pleasantly, Remi decided it was only courteous to greet them. It had been a while since they saw another trainer and even then, the encounter was less than enjoyable with how moody Silver was. "Hello there! Enjoying the weather?" Hearing Katie introduce herself, Remi bowed her head and returned her own introduction. "Nice to meet you Katie. My name is Remi." Looking at her Pichu and Pikachu it seemed as if they were enjoying the delectable assortment of fruits. Asking her if she wanted to picnic with them, Remi smiled sweetly. "That's very kind of you to invite us but we're on our way to Violet City." Feeling bad she couldn't sit with this girl and enjoy a picnic together between them and their Pokemon, it seemed as if the young girl had another request. Biting her bottom lip a little uncomfortably, Remi reluctantly gave in.

She wasn't going to be outright rude in denying both of the girl's offers. "Oh, well, go on! We'll have a little battle." Turning to the Pokemon Katie had out, it was at least a cute bunch of Pokemon. Perhaps even the right sort of Pokemon for Buffy to face and gain a bit more courage in overcoming her crippling trauma. Noting the adorable little Pichu stepping forward, blueberry stains and all, Remi couldn't help but laugh. "Awww what an adorable Pichu. I... Well, i'm looking after a Pichu myself. You're not missing any Pichu are you? Are any of your friends?" Deciding this would be an ample opportunity to quiz someone else on if any Pokemon were missing, hopefully she could find some leads on just where that thief had stolen these Pokemon from. Having put forth the question, it gave Remi sometime to select a Pokemon. "Go, Buffy!" She said, deciding to give the Marill a bit of practice. Sadly, as soon as the Pokemon arrived, it trembled erratically before fleeing backwards to hide behind Remi's boots. "Oooh... Buffy! You're at least hiding in plainer view I suppose. Don't you worry. We'll get over this." Grabbing another Pokeball, she instead summoned a cheery character which she hoped would be bit of a boon to Buffy's ailing timidness. "Smiles!" Appearing with a flourish, the Wooper tapped its feet around excitedly as it failed to remain still. "Use... Umm... One moment." Grabbing her Pokedex, she aimed it at Smiles and looked through its arsenal. "Mud Shot!"

OOC: Oh believe me, it's a long way to Violet. ;) As for battle, Buffy sent out first turn but swapped to Smiles who then uses Mud Shot.

[Morrigan]

vs Picnicker Katie
__________________________________

Stepping forward with her electric rodents, Katie appeared pleased that Remi atleast accepted her offer to battle. It was a usual thing to do when two trainers met and battling was something that Katie loved. Her ears perking up as Remi mentioned where she was heading, the young girl wriggled on the spot excitedly. "Ooh! I go to the school in Violet City! It is so much fun there!" About to go on a story spree about how amazing her teachers and fellow students were, the girl paused at Remi's next question. Tilting her head curiously, she gave Remi a blank expression, suggesting that she had no idea. "A lost Pichu, you say? Hmm. Nope! These are my two only Pokemon and I can't recall anyone losing any Pokemon but... Oh!" Stretching her arm up into the air as if begging to be picked to answer a question, the girl beamed innocently. "I have an idea! If you are heading to Violet City, you should drop by the school! If none of the students know anything, the teachers might! They would be able to help you find the Pokemon's trainer. If it was lost in Violet, that is." Tapping her head and sticking out her tongue, she felt a little bit bad that she couldn't answer. After all, Katie wanted to grow up to be a kind and helpful trainer, who would aid anyone in need.

Getting excited as Remi chose her Pokemon, the girl was about to wave at Buffy until the nervous Marill dashed behind the safety of Remi's legs. Blinking her eyes as Remi tried to give her Pokemon some vocal support, Katie tried to speak out to the blue creature softly, "It's okay lil' Marill, we aren't scary, I promise!" The chance to battle Buffy looking unlikely, Remi instead chose a different Pokemon, one which made Katie pause. Wooper meant that most of her attacks would be effective, she had learnt this much in trainer school but that didn't meant she was about to give up. Instead, she simply needed to take a different approach. "Okay! Pichu, go on in there and use Charm!" Stepping forward with it's juice strained lips, the Pichu skipped forward in a cheerful manner, chirping out in it's own tongue whilst waving it's arms around. Trying to convince Smiles that it was friendly, the happy Pokemon easily gave in to the Pichu's charms but still felt the need to attack on Remi's orders. Opening his smiling mouth, a burst of mud shot forward, flying through the air and striking the Pichu right in the face.

---

Pichu: | Level 6 |
Health: 0% (0/20 HP)
Status: Normal
Pichu used Charm!
Pichu fainted!

VS

Smiles: | Level 19 |
Health: 100% (55/55 HP)
Status: -2 Atk
Buffy was switched with Smiles!
Smiles used Mud Shot!

---

Smiles defeated Katie's Pichu but didn't gain any levels!


Buffy gained 1 level due to participating and grew to Level 14!
+2 Happiness


Salsa gained 1 level due to holding Experience Share and grew to Level 4!

------

Blinking it's large eyes slowly, tears began to well up and before anyone knew what happened, the Pichu burst into tears. Running straight back to Katie, the girl already had her arms open wide, allowing the muddy Pichu to jump straight into them. Smiling nervously as the rodent continued to sob, she looked over to Remi, "S-Sorry about this! Pichu is still new to battling but don't worry, we'll get stronger! Pikachu? Will you continue for me?" Nodding it's head, this time, Katie's second Pokemon stepped forward. A few sparks flickering from it's red cheeks, it stood in a battle ready pose.

Katie sends out Pikachu (Level 10) to battle next!
Change Pokemon?

[The REAL Joey]

Her serene smile focusing on Katie, Remi was appreciative to be in inviting company. As much as she wanted to understand and build a relationship with the enigmatic trainer known as Silver, he certainly knew how to be a drain on her upbeat attitude. At least not everyone was hard work. Listening to the girl acknowledge Remi's destination, it seemed they had a bit of common ground between them. "Oh? You do? You've ventured out quite far in that case for this picnic. You must be quite the capable trainer in that case." Thinking it over, she was indeed returning to Violet City to engage in a rematch with Falkner but the matter was on her agenda in partaking in a lesson or two at this trainer's school. What Katie said next would only spur her onwards to that realisation. A little dejected she knew of no stolen Pokemon, at least it seemed heading to this school was her highest priority. In order to make sure she wouldn't face defeat twice, she would enrol and get as much knowledge as required in order to do her best for her Pokemon. She owed them as much. "You know, I have heard many good things about this trainer's school. Earl's... Academy I believe it's called right?" Nodding her head, she delved partially into the recent past as she recalled being recommend there by Falkner. "The gym leader of your home town recommended me there also. I had to return to New Bark on an errand but you've really made me consider attending classes their first. It sounds like it's a very beneficial place to go to." If a girl as young as Katie could venture out this far with her Pokemon on a picnic, there was no doubt this school offered the confidence needed to undertake such a trip.

That and the fact this girl was so well mannered. Even going as far as to try and encourage Buffy as well, it pleased Remi greatly. "Aww... Thank you. Buffy here is deathly afraid of most. The poor thing endured a horrendous encounter a short while back and i'm trying everything to cure what ails her." Not knowing the first thing about Pokemon psychology or dealing with traumatic events, she was at least trying to do something rather than nothing and whilst progress was slow, it was there no matter how subtle. Not too phased by having to make such an early swap, Remi remained as a spectator as she watched Smiles endure a rather sweet charm attack and then prepared himself for the retaliation. Shooting out a muddied orb, Remi gasped slightly as she covered her mouth. She knew Smiles had come along way since they met by the riverside in Violet but she wasn't quite prepared for the super effectiveness of the blow she had ordered. Watching as the Pichu burst out into tears, Remi felt deeply bad for upsetting the poor infant Pokemon. Looking after a Pichu of her own, she would hate to see Tesla respond in such a way. "OH! I'm sorry! I wasn't aware that would have such an impact. Please, we're sorry." Bowing her head sincerely, she looked worriedly to the Pichu as it jumped into Katie's arms.

As Katie explained the Pichu was inexperienced in battling, Remi pulled a hesitant face. She wasn't sure if she meant that or was trying to make her feel better. "Even so, we're still sorry. That blow looked quite aggressive and I didn't mean to upset your Pichu there... Poor little thing!" Placing emphasis on her last words as she looked over to the muddied Pichu, she eventually shifted gaze to the Pikachu that stepped up to bat. With a swap of Pokemon, Remi decided to do the same. "Okay Smiles, come back for now. And you, Buffy, let's give this a go. Come on." Picking up the Marill gently, the Pokemon squirmed about in terror as it was planted into the opposing corner to the foes. Quaking as it looked up at the larger Pikachu with sparks flying off its cheeks, the Marill quickly retreated once more behind Remi, peering around while shaking still in fear. Letting out a saddened sigh, Remi shook her head but accepted progress wouldn't be done in a day. "Oh Buffy. There's nothing to worry. Look, let Smiles get back into the fight and show you. We're here to support you." Kneeling down momentarily to give the Marill a pat, she decided to do a repeat of the turn before. "If you could do another... Mud Shot? Yes. Mud Shot. Please and thank you Smiles." Bouncing around in a lively manner, it was something he hoped she would say. It had a million and one uses this move in a number of slapstick gags it could perform and it was keen to trial them out.

[Deleted]

Picnicker Katie was really hoping this next round would go better than the last one. She was still trying to hide the embarrassment about her Pichu losing so quickly and then crying about it. Her Pikachu had a bit more training and she hoped that that would lead to a more interesting battle. As her Pikachu sttod ready for battle Katie kept a happy face about the situation as she replied to Remi.[color-limegreen] " I should have done a little bit more training with Pichu before tying to use it against another trainer so I was just asking for it there."[/color] She said as the poor Pichu continued to cry in her arms.

Trying to make the best of a bad situation Katie was not exactly sure how to counter a Wooper as she had not ran into many yet and her Pikachu could not damage them with it's electric type attacks. The picnicker was completely dumbfounded as she could not come up with anything off the top of her head that would work. As little as she wanted to admit it Remi's Wooper had really thrown her off. As Remi gave an order however Katie knew she had to do something and fast to at least show that she was still trying. The young girl was pretty sure that her Pikachu could outrun a Wooper and as such she decided to try using Speed to her advantage.

" Pikachu run as fast as you can to close the distance and try a growl attack." Pikachu was not sure what it's trainer was planning on doing but followed the order to a t. Pikachu got as close as it could to Smiles before letting loose a mighty growl that caused the small blue Pokemon to shiver. As Pikachu stopped long enough to catch it's breath however Smiles was able to fire another salvo of mud in revenge. The mud shot scored a massively powerful hit on the electric type and within a second of the collision Pikachu began to cry just like it's younger friend with a face covered in mud. Katie was stunned as Pikachu ran back towards her and joined Pichu in her arms.

Katie's Pikachu: | Level 10|
Health: 0% (0/30 HP)
StatusKO'ed
KO'ed
Move: Growl

Remi's Smiles : | Level 19 |
Health: 100% (55/55 HP)
Status: Normal, Attack -1
Am I really that strong?
Move: Mud Shot

---

Smiles has defeated Pikachu and gained 1 level and is now level 20. He also gained +1 happiness and he has +3 happiness overall.



Smiles is evolving into a Quagsire. Do you want to stop the evolution?


Salsa gained 1 level thanks to his experience share. He is now level 5.


Picknicker Katie has been defeated. She gives you 300 poke in prize money.

---

The young girl knew that she had lost but she was far from upset. This battle had been a great opportunity to learn about her Pokemon's weaknesses and she was quite happy to have met Remi. " Well I cannot say I am not a little embarrassed about losing so quickly but I have learned so much from this battle. I want you to have these Pokedollars as a reward for helping me see my teams glaring weakness to ground types. I hope I run into you at the academy." She said before walking off with her Pokemon to get them cleaned up at the local Pokemon Center leaving Remi free to continue her journey.

[The REAL Joey]

Moved by the young girl's handle on the situation as well as understanding she'd need to undergo some training with her Pokemon, Remi smiled as it reminded her somewhat of herself. "I had the same issue when I faced Falkner. I was... Woefully unprepared." Letting out a small delicate laugh, it was a mighty understatement to say the least. However with all the effort and knowledge she had invested there was no doubt the rematch itself would be on much leveller ground. "I'll likely pop by this route one day. When I do, we'll have to catch up and see just how far you've gotten with your Pokemon." Knowing full well if she was as good a trainer at this point in her life, there was surely a bright future ahead for the girl. This would only be highlighted further as she confidently picked up the slack and gave her Pikachu a sound command. Remi was beginning to get a grasp on debilitating moves that had an influence on her own Pokemon and it seemed commendable to try and go at the fight in a different manner rather than attacking head on. As the Pikachu cried out with a resounding growl, even Remi felt herself be taken aback by the noise.

Thankfully, the comedic Smiles was not too perturbed. The growl was enough to unease Pokemon that wanted to go in for a physical strike but considering he was lobbing mud from afar it meant he had little cause for concern. Comically building up the hurling of mud, he launched it off with gusto and flourished as he awaited the shot to splatter all over his opponent. To everyone's surprise, the move was such a blast that it resulted in Katie's last Pokemon losing the will to fight. Observing the Pikachu follow suit much like its Pichu brethren, Remi pulled a hand over her mouth as she gasped worriedly. Last thing she wanted was to appear the bully. "Oh no! Katie, i'm sorry." Thankfully the youngster took it in her stride. Explaining she had some ways to go, she came over and handed her some money as congratulations. As she began walking off, Remi tip toed and waved her farewell. "It was a pleasure meeting you! I do indeed hope we meet again at the academy. If we don't, i'll be sure to come revisiting this route one day." A heartfelt smile on her face, this battle was testament that her days as a rookie whilst still ongoing were nowhere near as bad as when she first started. Looking down to the timid Marill, she laughed. "Believe in us. If you decide to have a go yourself, we'll always be here to protect you. Isn't that right Smi-Oh?!" Turning around and being caught off guard by a sudden explosion of light, it appeared a radical change was occurring. As if content with perfecting his slapstick moves for stand up routines, Smiles had felt the need to evolve to better further his chances as a Pokemon comedian. Shifting and growing, it wasn't long before the blinding light signalled off, revealing Smiles' new form.

"S-Smiles!" Remi cried out. Her face astonished, the amateur trainer was still completely amazed by the concept of evolution. A Pokemon or two she had trained at this point had undergone the process but it seemed so magical. "You've grown so much." With his new found arms, the Quagsire wobbled around before doing an even more amusing flourish. "Something tells me by the time we get to Violet we'll be set for this rematch." Returning the excess of Pokemon to their Pokeballs aside from Gex, she let out a happy sigh. "So much is going on. The momentum doesn't seem to be letting up." Looking further down the route through a lengthy patch of tall grass Remi nodded. "Speaking of which... Onwards we go!" Pressing on, the duo continued their march.

OOC: I should've made it a bit clearer but I had Buffy sent into battle first turned, swapped to Smiles and then attacked.

[ShotoNemar]

Big round eyes gazed upwards at a bright light that had appeared. A lot of pokemon had scattered off away from the light, as it was a smart decision to do so. There was a battle that had gone out, and most of the pokemon had become super wary of all the trainers that were about the route. Living in the patch of grass that was most crossed due to its proximity to the city made the small bug pokemon strong, but it yearned for a good battle.

It had fought a good number of battles in the past, and wasn't afraid of much. It was tougher then a lot of the others in the grass, and found itself wondering if it will ever grow or change. It wouldn't be hard to find a battle soon however, as the light calmed down, the small pokemon waddled forward. It's bright yellow eyes still gleaming with hope on what a future battle had to offer.

The grass rustled a bit, here and there, and a small head poked upwards at the pokemon running away. As the trainer appeared to be leaving, it aproached the trainer with calming eyes. Despite it's size, it was sure to appear to be at least a little bit of a challange, be it fodder for training or to be something that joins the journey, the bright eyed bug type pokemon had found itself at the feet of the female trainer.

It tipped it's head upwards again, wiggling it's antenna, and growled very loudly at remi. "Eeeuu!" It was high pitched and highly familiar to lots of trainers who wandered this grass. It has avoided trainers for so long, but it wasn't going to avoid them now. It needed to prove itself.

---

!A wild lvl 10 Caterpie has appeared!
Will you fight or flee?

[The REAL Joey]

Strolling along further at a leisurely pace with Gex by her side, the duo took in the sights of this long winding route. "It may be because I grew up in the city but routes like these situated in the countryside definitely have their charm." Looking over to her, the silent Groyvle merely nodded his head. Naturally, the Treecko line were from the rainforest itself, having adapted to the foliage and trees it sported. Gex himself was an unusual case in the fact he was rather much an urban raised Pokemon instead getting used to the urban jungle that was Goldenrod. Making their way along, Remi looked around curiously. "It's become awfully quiet, don't you agree?" Nodding his head again, even the Groyvle had trouble picking up on a nearby noises or signs of life. "Aside from Katie some time ago, we've not bumped into anything. I haven't even seen any trainers venturing about." Stopping for a moment, she placed a finger on her lips as if in concentration. "I wonder if Smiles transforming like that scared off everyone? It can be quite jumpy if you're not prepared for it."

Speaking from experience, the first time a Pokemon of her's evolved, it led her to a rather shocked state of emotion. The fact that a Pokemon of hers was now enveloped in a powerful, blinding light and also disappeared being replaced with a much departed change in their form was enough to confuse any inexperienced trainer new to the scene. Speaking of inexperience, this would be a text book example of a trainer not fully understanding the world around them. Looking from side to side as she placed a hand over her eyes to try and shield off the sun to look out for any other potential signs of life, she neglected to look down in the immediate vicinity as it appeared a lone Caterpie had braved venturing up to her in order to try and prove itself. As it let out a bizarre cry, Remi paused and looked to Gex. "Was that you?" Shrugging, the Grovyle feigned ignorance but in reality was aware of the Caterpie by her feet. Glaring through his shades, he was ready to intervene at a moment's notice but saw no real need to alert Remi to its presence due to the fact they were behind schedule in returning to Violet. "Oh. Must be my imagination. Come on, let's continue our journey." Smiling pleasantly, she completely ignored the Caterpie and continued walking.

- Remi... Flees(?) from the battle -

[Tarlar]

This was outrageous! It was being ignored!
The caterpie new it was strong for one of its kind, it had even held back its own evolution to become even stronger and then it hated the thought of being immobile for an unknown amount of time, but that was not a thing it would ever admit. It became furious by Remi's insult, did she really dare to ignore it and act like it was nothing? It would show her!
It ignored Gex completely since it was challenging a trainer and their pokemon always did nothing if not told by their trainer. Or so it had been told, it had kept a safe distance to humans for some time, until it was sure it had a chance against the better trained pokemon they often brought with them.
It cried out again and tried to stop Remi, but as she just knocked it off its feet as she walked over it, it failed. It cried out in frustration and tried to catch up with the long legged human, but it was too slow. Then it tried to stop her with a stringshot, but the grass was too high and just tangled those together instead.
"Don't let her get away!" It cried out, but not to Remi or Gex. A shuffle of leaves was heard in a nearby bush.

The weedle was stuffing itself with the most nutricious leaves it could find. It needed a lot of energy for the sort of training it and its caterpie friend was about to do. Caterpie had thought itself ready first and had claimed the right to challenge the first trainer who came by, which happened to be Remi.
It stuck its head out of the bush when its friend called out to it, to see what was going on. It spent a moment to think about how it could stop Remi without stealing caterpies battle, but since it agreed it was more important not to lose the battle than to take it from its friend, it decided to do anything in its power to stop her.
"Weedle!" It cried out and climbed quickly to the branch closests to the human. Perching on the tip of it, it then shot a stringshot at her legs to slow her down. If it missed her somehow it would spit poison needles out in front of her, not to hit her but to get her attention.

Weedle |level 10| Interrupts your strolling.
What will you do?

(ooc: you have made changes on your team?)

[The REAL Joey]

As Remi completely blanked the Caterpie's challenge to her, it was explanatory as to why she didn't pick up on the Pokemon's inconsolable rage. Had she had known the Pokemon's back story, it would have conveyed a sense of underdog coming out on top. Maybe even give the amateur trainer a sort of respect for the Pokemon. Sadly, Remi's mind was completely elsewhere. "I wonder how father is getting on. It's been a while since I last spoke with mother and she said she was going to visit him. I'm just glad we sent Weeble there to look after her. I don't want that horrible villain to return back and think they can terrorise them further." Nodding her head, Remi was confident in Weeble's ability. "I have faith in Weeble!" He had started off as an absolute klutz, even fallen into the pits of despair upon being bested by Falkner's Pidgey, yes, Pidgey not even his Pidgeotto. But after an encouraging turnaround, Remi and her Pokemon friends had managed to find some renewed hope in the Pokemon. "What really worries me is that if my father is in such a bad shape i'm worried they won't be able to look after themselves financially. Mother doesn't have a job and if father is unable to do his duties..." Biting her bottom lip, it was a predicament. Her family were austere to begin with and with them having put a large amount of their savings towards Remi's journey embarking as a trainer it meant they were in a fragile position.

"If only there was some way to keep them secure." Pondering this out loud to herself, she had no real clue on what the answer would be but perhaps the solution would be closer to home than she was searching. Nevertheless, the brain wave to this would not be so soon, but rather, around the corner. "I suppose this will give us something to consider over on the remainder of our journey..." Trailing off thoughtfully, it was apparent the rookie trainer was once again oblivious to the world around her. At this point, Gex had very much twigged there was more unfolding on than it first appeared. Noting that the Caterpie had let out a cry of some sort, his keen eyes shifted over to the grass as he noticed a similar caterpillar like bug sporting a protruding horn rustling in the bushes. His eye wincing at what this could potentially spell out, he quickly moved over to the side from where he assumed the Weedle would be striking from. Picking up on the sudden expulsion of a string shot, the Grovyle swiftly sliced at a line of tall grass which in effect launched the blades of grass up in the air and protected her from any incoming assault temporarily. Giving the Weedle a disatisfactory glare not to attempt anything else, he quickly sped up to continue with Remi's pace. "...So what do you think, Gex? Hm?" Unaware he hadn't been following the conversation, the Pokemon merely nodded his head to whatever she had said.

- Remi flees(?!) once more -

OOC: I've done one or two swaps in between battles. I don't usually RP out the swap by going to the Pokemon Centre due to it interrupting the flow of her continuing along the route.

[latani]

Route 30
- - - - - - - - - - - - -

Carefree as floated down the route, another Pokémon was making its way towards Remi and Gex as they strolled on towards Violet. Unlike the last two challengers, however, this one was not actively seeking a battle with anything. No, it was merely enjoying the day, a pleasant expression on its face. It took little notice of its surroundings aside from the occasional peek to ensure it was not on a collision course with anything. Besides, what did it have to fear on such a lovely day? No bird Pokémon were in sight to bother it, and so far it had yet to encounter any trainers.

Humming to itself, the Hoppip's leaves twirled to keep it adrift when the breeze carrying it petered out, leaving the Grass-type to slowly descend from above. Frowning when the breeze failed to make a return, Hoppip's eyes opened, a gentle squeak of surprise pulling free as it spotted Remi and Gex approaching from the opposite direction. If the human or Grovyle looked up, they were certain to spot Hoppip, an unnerving possibility that Hoppip quite disliked.

While Hoppip was certain it was about to be engaged in a battle, there was the chance Remi and Gex would simply pass right under it. Given its current trajectory, if the wind decided to pick up once more, Hoppip would pass right over them. But if not, it was liable to drop directly in the girl's path. Closing its eyes, Hoppip prayed for the best to happen, leaving everything up to luck.

Attention!

---

A wild Hoppip (Level 9) sort of appeared!
Will you fight or flee?