Scene #8611: PMD 2: Tinkaton's Guild

Owner	Pose
Petra Soroka	The walk to the Guild would have taken much less time if your guide could lead you in a straight line. Spinda wobbles their way up the coastline, chattering despite continually tripping over rocks frighteningly close to the edge of the rocky cliff. Rocks and seaside air eventually give way to scrubgrass, and then forest, and then a dirt path, winding through the trees and gradually further uphill. Each of Spinda's steps is, at best, fourty-five degrees offset from 'straight forwards', and so the blue dimness of early night fills the sky already. Spinda: "How'd you-ou all get together. any-anyways?" Spinda: "You all loo-ook so inter--" Spinda: "Whoops!" Spinda: "Interesting! Are you another gui-uild?" Spinda: "Or are you friends! On a journey to save the wor-orld together!" Petra, meanwhile, is still debilitated. Discharging electricity through Lotus gives her a few minutes of partial respite each time, but she quickly lapses back into inexplicable nausea, degrading from staggering along with the party to being dragged by a blue-tipped ear face-down behind Cinderquil. The electric aura charges up around her in tandem with her illness, causing anyone near her's fur to stand on end, setting off crackles of static whenever something bumps into her whining mouse-like form. The forest on either side of the path scurries with movement, Pokemon often obscured by the darkness. Occasionally a Rattatta darts across the path, or luminous eyes watch the traveling party, and once the ground trembles with the movement of a large shape crashing through the trees, that Angela identifies as an Onix ('Correct. With an 'i'.'). Despite the presence of, according to Spinda, likely hostile Pokemon, the group is unbothered for the rest of their journey. Spinda: "I was out too late!" Spinda: "It's a good thing I met you all, or I'd be to-oast!"
Petra Soroka	The forest thins into patchy trees, between which are small, cute houses, made out of largely thatch and mud, and surprisingly often sculpted into the shape of a Pokemon's head. The dirt road becomes cobblestone, leading into the town square, and then stairs up a hill to the final destination that Spinda is leading the Elites to, after a few failed attempts climbing the steps. A garish pale-pink hut, easily two or three times the size of any others, in the shape of another Pokemon's head-- the eponymous Tinkaton, of Tinkaton's Guild, Angela can guess. Outside the door is a tall knightly-looking Pokemon, deep purple with flames coming out of their helmet, both of their crossed crossed arms turning into swords at the elbow. They look down at the party while they-- at least Spinda, and probably Cinder with the extra load of Petra and Angela-- struggle to climb the stairs, eventually stepping down to hook Petra up out of Cinder's tiny hands to give her an easier time. Ceruledge: "Spinda. What brings you back here?" Ceruledge: "You seem to have brought... company." A bubble of light green gel swells out of Ceruledge's back, then detatches with a small pop and floating as an orb. Inside of it is an odd white, somewhat formless creature, that rubs the bottom of its blob-shaped head with a blobby stub of an arm while squinting at the party, bobbing closer to them in the air. Duosion: "Not anyone I recognize, nosiree." Duosion: "And it looks like they've brought a lonesome Minun with them, mhm mhm." Duosion: "Where's her Plusle?" Ceruledge: "I'm Ceruledge. With the Guild." Ceruledge: "What's your business?"
Kale Hearthward	Left Kale and Right Kale have allied together. Well, not allied. It's more of a peace agreement. ... A truce? No, that's still kind of a strong word for it... A cease-fire. Let's go with that. Kale's offered a ride to anyone who's having trouble with the stairs. Or, Half of him has, at least. > "How'd you-ou all get together. any-anyways?" "You know, I wonder that a lot myself. "Mostly from wanting to fight the same people. > "Or are you friends!" "No." > 'Correct. With an 'i'' "Well, duh. Of course you spell Onyx with an i. What are you talking about?" Oh good, someone in armor. That means they're serious. Kale steps up to Ceruledge. "Kale Hearthward, Paladins Search and Rescue, East Wind team. Here to escort Spinda back into civilization. And could we speak to the guild leader here?" "About what we can fight." "He means- I mean, I mean about rescuing people."
Hellwarming Trio	Utsuho: "We saw an invite, so we showed up." Rin: "That ain't quite all of it, but... Yeah! Close enough." Satori: "We're not all from the same guild, as it were, but... Some of us do belong to the same organization." Rin: "And some of us are even junior detectives!" Satori: "I'd say you should qualify for regular detectives by now. I would just have to be the senior." As the three yokai-turned-Fletchling, Litten, and Ralts chatter with the Spinda, the first two continue shuffling along to keep trying to help Cinder with the debilitated Petra. Utsuho's doing considerably more work than Rin at that, but Rin does eventually find her stride once she realizes it's easier to just use her head for some additional support. The trek through the forest has Satori taking the (relative) lead, occasionally nudging her green head-thing up to get a better look at the Pokemon darting buy and looking right back at those glowing eyes to make it clear that she's aware of their presence, but otherwise tries not to approach everything that rustles and jostles the foliage nearby. It's not until they reach the actual town of Pokemon-head buildings that they finally relax, eyeing the new arrival with... They all think the Ceruledge looks cool, actually. Utsuho's and Rin's eyes gleam with awe, and Satori can be seen nodding approvingly at the overall shape of the first new Pokemon that greets them. Utsuho: "Utsuho Reiuji. We're Paladins!" Rin: "Rin Kaenbyou. We're here to...! Uh." Satori: "Satori Komeiji. We are here to resolve this matter of the mystery dungeons and the youngster." Satori gestures at the Spinda. Satori: "Would you allow us to join your guild? Even if only temporarily, we'd like to contribute our abilities in exchange for your guidance." The Duosion, in comparison, only seems to get Rin's attention, especially with the context clues giving her more reason to actually pay attention. Rin: "Her what now? Is that slang for somethin'?" She gives Petra a light nudge. Rin: "You got any idea what they mean, sis?"
Ru Li Cheng	Even after all these months in the Multiverse, Ru Li Cheng hasn't yet gotten used to the idea of worlds where he can't see the thing that makes gravity happen. The turning gears and twisting coils of the Engine of Heaven bring a sense of comfort for him that, in this time of 'not being in his own body,' would be a great help. He's learned that his new body doesn't walk very well, for starters. The ninth of nine Ru Cheng gods has had to awkwardly waddle his way along behind the group, an odd, undignified, ungainly gait that feels a great deal less respectable than the Ru Cheng god would otherwise like. Waddling his way behind the others into the town square is embarassing as hell for a whole lot of reasons, but being completely unable to climb the steps is worse. Ru Li just sort of sits there, glumly, staring down. He's fairly sure if he stepped he'd lose his balance. If he could just will himself up the stairs- -and then he does. Thinking about it causes it to happen. He floats up the stairs, moving smoothly, like a serpent swimming atop water. Ru Li: <Oh!> Ru Li: <That's so much easier walking! Goodness!> Ru Li: <...> Ru Li: <...I could've done that the whole time...> Once inside, Ru Li presses his paws together and attempts to bow. It's clumsy, but he manages. Since he's still getting used to the idea of talking psychically (let alone moving psychically) and he's kind of tall for this place (he stands a full foot taller than Ceruledge, even), he instead decides to let someone else speak first, and uses the time to practice sitting on air with his newfound floaty trick. The fact that he's exhausted from awkwardly waddling his way through the entire forest definitely has nothing to do with that, as he sits down on the air and reclines in a fashion that could be described as 'godlike, upon a cushion.'
Aidan Proudpick	TWO LEGS BAD, FOUR LEGS GOOD. Aidan soon finds that his legs are not made for walking, and has to resort to following along on four legs, scampering for short periods. Aidan is often behind Spinda, or beside, or above, scrabbling around to make sure Spinda doesn't fall without actually poking them. They seem fine! So he'll just let them chill. Aidan looks around, "Well. I guess you can say that. A lot of us are trying to save the world in our own way. Some of us think the others are trying to save the world in the wrong way." Aidan doesn't load this statement with any possible venom, because, well, Spinda CLEARLY has enough on their mind and they don't need to be between any multiverse politics dynamic. "Think of it like some kind of team that only gets together when there's a lot of danger. But also fights." The mouth of a patrat isn't great for smiling, it is all in the eyes, which Aidan does his best, "Hey, I'm happy to help! It's a good thing we fell in together." Wild alert eyes take in the houses, a flick and sway of the tail in appreciation of each simple and wonderful house. "It must be nice to live here. Even if it is a little dangerous." Aidan seems to be enjoying himself, watching Ru Li struggle and then succeed with his new body, everyone else get used to their new existence. At the guild itself, Aidan's eyes travel up the Ceruledge. Daaaamn. Why couldn't he have been one of those! His eyes widen in seeing it move. "Oh! Uh. Yea. We are here to help Spinda here! Who has a rock. And save the world?" He points over at Petra, "Also, can you help her?"
Dysnomia	It takes a little time for Mia to get used to her new proportions...She isn't new to slithering, necessarily, but the transition from between stars to over grains of sand is a jarring one, and where everyone else can see... ...Well, it's a little less embarrassing than she expected. At least at first. Probably due to the fact that the elites around her were a pack of likewise colorful critters. Until, her ears quivering, as she struggled to keep pace with the others, feeling a spike a rage lance through her little body as she started to lag behind, stubbornly refusing Kale's aid when offered. Dysnomia: "I can handle myself!" Oh, but she oh-so-clearly was having trouble regardless. She spares Ru Li a glare as he glides up the steps. Dysnomia: "...Lucky...Jerk..." Dysnomia: "Why." It's only halfway through the introduction that Dysnomia winds her way into the town hall, flopping with a firm thud on the ground, body rising and falling as she panted... Dysnomia: "What...What they said."
Angela	Angela is curious if the two Kales will kill each other or if one will reign supreme. If Kale takes out one of the Kales, will he come back missing half his head? Or would it not even have an appreciable effect? The academic in Angela is really interested. But Angela is pretty sure that's a mostly amoral act too and being amoral is not a good way to mantain allieship even if you're being amoral to someone who doesn't seem like he has too many allies of his own. Angela, a Porygon right now, answers Spinda, "I am friends with Petra who is currently suffering. I would like it if a manner to help her could be developed so she doesn't spend the entire trip in agony." Angela explains. "She's my friend too." Cinderquill adds. "We're all friends." The Porygon sighs distressingly at that largely because she feels that at this point in her life she is having increasingly little influence over who her friends are but she can't deny it either even if she's not sure she'd go that far. She grouses about this in silence. She spots a--well it's not hard to spot--it's more accurate to say that she labels an, "That is called an Onix. With an 'i'." Angela helpfully supplies, basically performing the role of Petra's pokedex for this journey. When they finally get to the Guild, Cinderquill is pretty exhausted from carrying a Petra AND an Angela who feels heavier than the backpack normally is somehow or maybe it's because of her tinier less muscular body... "Thanks," Cinder wheezes at Ceruledge. "ahhh...be careful, she's having a bad time...!"
Blemishine	Really, Blemishine doesn't mind Spinda's teetering and tottering attempts at leading them all that much, even as the hour draws towards the late. It's kind of endearing, honestly! And even if it's in a zig-zag, they /are/ going to get to where they need to go, so there's no rush as far as she's concerned. It's a great opportunity to actually take in their woody surroundings as they go. And also a chance to get used to walking on four legs. Maria: "Oh, well..." Maria: "Hmm~mmm, what's the best way of describing...oh!" Maria: "Maybe not everyone is 'friends', but right now we're all definitely something like 'comrades'! Like an adventuring party!" Maria: "And with what we're doing now, it sure is a journey to save the world, huh?" Of course, the long trip has also given her a little more time to appreciate what's going on in the Petra camp. More than once, when she's not observing the treeline with more curiosity than wariness (with an excited exclamation when Onix brushes past their path), she's casting some worried glances back where she's being brought along at the back of the group. Ru Li seems to be managing somewhat better than before, but... Maria: "...I wonder if anyone at the Guild will know something that can help..." ... Some ooh-ing and aah-ing at the actual sight of a town plus a clip and a clop up a long stairway later, Blemishine gives a tilt of her head at what she can only assume to be the building's front door. At Ceruledge, mostly. Her eyes, which are already pretty wide at rest, do so a little more. Maria: "So they have knights here, too...! S-So cool... ...Ah! I'm getting distracted!" Maria: "Ahem. Along with Spinda, we wanted to offer our services to help explore the Mystery Dungeons!" Maria: "After we scared off some troublemakers harassing her, well..." Oh. Hm. Did Ceruledge's companion just say...? She glances back at Petra. Maria: "Plusle? Is her not having one why she's been so sick...?"
Kuroto Dan	Genm, despite having pledged to help previously, has been ignoring everyone on their way to the Guild, scorning any attempts at small talk at him and all but announcing his annoyance at the babying of certain stragglers. It begs the question of why he's even bothering, given his seeming disdain for a majority of his party, but if one were to hazard a quick guess, it's probably because he's just as clueless as everyone else. Genm:"What's YOUR business? That's a question I should be asking you." Genm:"But I will explain anyway, rather than put up with your potential sad attempt at grasping onto your perceived status of superiority over me." Genm carefully adjusts his scarf with his 'hands' as he speaks with his usual coarse and hateful tone, as if to underline what he just said before he continues to rant. Genm:"The poor pathetic creature of your so called 'Guild' has begged and asked for my guidance to help save your world." Genm:"Normally, I'd ask for some form of payment, but given the potential I see here and the circumstances..." Genm:"I think I can find it in my heart to help, so long as you offer complete compliance!" Genm's face breaks out into what can presumably be a full blown smile as he lets out an awful, throaty laugh, only stopping when he suddenly breaks out into a violent cough.
Meika Kirenai	Meika: "How are you still al- still in one piece?" It's honestly kind of fun watching Spinda stumble. Meika has less problem smiling at the display than maybe she ought to, but it's something like watching a child's toddling and a drunk's silly gait. Arms pocketed and eyes half-fixed on empty space, the hike is easy to pass like that, even as the feeling of forest denizens staring prickles the back of her neck, and coaxes her into a hunched posture. But that's business as normal, really. Meika: "I... guess some of us are sort of a.. guild? Er. Coworkers? Unless that means something special..." A fidget cuts her off, and she leaves it at that, long claws clacking together slightly. Unfortunately, it's just as hard not to wince at Petra's plight as it is not to giggle at Spinda's demeanor, and when eyes flit that direction, Meika does just that. Come on... stay up, this time... Beyond worried glances, and a few hesitant throat noises, and hovering nearby -(but not too nearby, lest all the static turn her too-much-fur into a Meika Orb)- to where Cinder pulls her, she knows there's not a lot she can do but whisper that- {"Maybe the Guild will know how to help..."}. Wishful thinking, considering the one representative they've all met, but well-wishing, still. A head shaped building. That's a new one. And the figure standing vigil outside it is more imposing than much of who has been seen so far. Meika steels herself, and silently inhales at the somewhat condescending tone Ceruledge brings down on Spinda. Are we in trouble for coming with... Him? Her..? How does anyone.. She tosses the thought away, for now- and gives a small, sardonic wave at the mention of company. Her eyes roll, even as she looks off at the nearest wall. Duosion, however, gets a glare, as they give their assessment of the haphhazard troupe. Something about the lack of direct address itches her the wrong way, and an ear flickers, broadcasting her distaste. Meika: "Min- huh? What are those words? What are you talking about?" At Ceruledge's prompting to purpose, Meika raises an eyebrow at Spinda, as if expecting them to say something to people they're (probably?) more familiar with. Meika: "Magic rocks and weird signals. Uh. What sort of business should someone have, here? Does that like, count? Do you know stuff?"
Petra Soroka	Spinda is dazed into a period of silence, overwhelmed by the number of questions they've been given as well as their excitement at the prospect of joining the Guild. They teeter in place with a drawn out 'ummmmmmmm', dizzy-eyes staring forwards, until they nearly fall over, then right themselves abruptly with a hop. Spinda: "Plusle! That's right!" "You got any idea what they mean, sis?" Petra: "Uuuuuu..." Petra: "How would I knowwww?" Petra: "I don't even......" Petra: "I just feel-- off-balance, somehow. Like I'm missing half my fucking limbs." Duosion, hovering and wobbling gently like jelly, narrows his eyes at this and lets out a annoyingly drawn-out 'hmmmmm'. He bobs over to Petra, balanced on Ceruledge's blade like a pizza, and orbits around her, making continual thoughtful noises and nodding that blobby head suspended in his gel. Duosion: "How could a Minun not know of her Plusle?" Duosion: "That's mighty strange, mhm mhm." Duosion: "Well, to elucidate, mhm mhm." Duosion: "Minun is a rodent Pokemon that's bonded to another Pokemon, named Plusle." Duosion: "They generate opposing charges of energy, and without the other, build up too much of their own, mhm mhm." Duosion: "Plusle generates positive energy, so it can survive on its own. But a Minun will overload on negative energy without a positive outlet, and become dangerously sick!" Petra writhes around, her ears drooped over the side of the sword, and slowly lifts her head. She delicately touches a paw to the big minus sign on her cheek, causing a spark of electricity and a disapproving look from Ceruledge, and then whines. Petra: "What the fuck?!" Petra: "I'm a rat that has such bad vibes that it fucking dies?!" Petra: "That's not true at all! That's not-- that's not fair." Duosion rubs his nubbed hands together, looking increasingly excited. "Aha! Aha. Well, as confused as you may be on the nature of your own being, it is treatable. After you've come inside, I'll summon someone to fetch Valence, mhm mhm." "We're Paladins!" "Kale Hearthward, Paladins Search and Rescue, East Wind team." Spinda: "Pala-aladins?" Spinda: "Is that the Guild you're all a part of?" Spinda: "Or... so-o-ome of you are?" Ceruledge tips their sword to the ground, and Petra gently slides down the length and tumbles onto the ground of the miniature plaza in front of the guild entrance. She rolls twice, despite the incline being extremely gentle, just because of her complete lack of resistance and low density. Ceruledge taps the tip of their sword to the ground, not threateningly, but impatiently.
Petra Soroka	Petra: "............" Ceruledge: "I haven't heard of the Paladins." Ceruledge: "Or of an East Wind." Ceruledge: "But you seem to be organized. And nonhostile." "The poor pathetic creature of your so called 'Guild' has begged and asked for my guidance to help save your world." Ceruledge stares down at the much smaller and much haughtier sword-based humanoid Pokemon. A few moments pass after the monologue before they move, raising up a sword, and-- Squatting down to pet Genm on the head with it. Ceruledge: "That's the spirit!" Ceruledge: "A boast like that could match someone twice your size." Ceruledge: "Unfortunately, Spinda isn't a part of our Guild. They simply live in the Town." Ceruledge: "But their desperation for your aid will be taken into account, warrior." "Along with Spinda, we wanted to offer our services to help explore the Mystery Dungeons!" Ceruledge harrumphs, fire flaring out of their helmet. They raise a sword up like a questioning finger, then tilt their chin up to look at Ru Li. After scanning over him for a few seconds, they lower it, and shift their stance to be slightly less guarded. Before Ceruledge can talk, though, Spina butts in, waddling in front of them. Spinda: "I ca-an. I can be an explorer. I can make it." Spinda: "I want to help save the wor-orld." Ceruledge: "..............." Ceruledge: "It isn't safe for Spinda to enter Mystery Dungeons. And as we've just met, I can't vouch for any of your capabilities, either." Ceruledge: "But I can tell you're serious." Ceruledge: "Come with me--" Duosion: "With us!" Ceruledge: "And you may tell Guildmaster Tinkaton about what you know of the fate of the world, and Spinda's Gem." The door, a wooden portcullis that's cranked open by a pair of multicolored monkeys-- Panpour, Pansage-- reveals that even this larger building by the standards of the town is only an entryway. The path down is almost akin to a cave, though with lighting and stairs added in, and Ceruledge leads you down to a lower cavern, with Duosion bobbing along behind him. The lower floor spreads out through the interior of the hill that the entrance was built on, a seemingly natural(?) cave that's been layered with tapestries on the walls and wood on the floors to make it feel like a proper building. Inside, likely due to it being night, there isn't a lot of activity despite the expansive space, with accomodations for easily a hundred Pokemon to gather at once, and further rooms off to the sides. There is, however, a squat pink Pokemon, with tufts of pale-pink hair like thick twintails, that matches the shape of the guild building face. Tinkaton is also holding a massive hammer, taller than even Ru Li, and he slams it into the ground mid conversation with a feminine plantlike Liligant.
Ru Li Cheng	As the party moves, Ru Li moves with them, floating forward like he's swimming through the air. The ticking clockwork noise of the turning key in his back is the only sound he makes - he's not even moving the air with him, simply moving through it. There is a palpable, radial sense of pleasure and delight at this newfound mobility, not simply relief but pleasure. Politely, he is also helping Mia, because Mia helped him some time ago when he was having difficulty, and he's the sort of person to do that. He's attempting to simply carry Mia with his mind - and while it's working, it's not great. He's not a psychic, after all, not really. The form he may be in may be telekinetic but he himself is not so the best he can do is kind of crudely drag Mia along through the air. It's probably better than walking, though. When they reach the Tinkaton, Ru Li sets Mia down and lands, putting his fist into his three-fingered hand and giving a deep bow. Ru Li: <Thank you for meeting with us, Guildmaster. I am Ru Li Cheng, from...a very far-away land. We are here to...offer assistance. To help with a danger stemming from a strange magic gem, and those who would attempt to use that power for evil.> He resumes floating a moment later, because it's way more comfortable. He shouldn't get used to this...but he's deserved the rest after the waddle, OK?
Aidan Proudpick	Aidan stands up on his haunches, pumping his fists up and down. "There's gonna be a trial!" He looks at everyone else. "There's gonna be a trial, there's gonna be a trial!!" Aidan doesn't actually know if there is going to be a trial, but the single possibility of being able to PROVE THYSELF for this guild is putting every hair on end and makes him bound the rest of the way towards the hammer gremlin. "Guildmaster Tinkaton!" Aidan calls out in general, chest puffed out, standing on his haunches again, tiny fist against his heart, "We..." Aidan's tail twitches. "Uhh..." He looks at Spinda, "What DO we know about the gem?" He finally asks sheepishly, slowly deflating.
Angela	''Minun is a rodent Pokemon that's bonded to another Pokemon, named Plusle. They generate opposing charges of energy, and without the other, build up too much of their own, mhm mhm.'' A Minun will overload on negative energy without a positive outlet, and become dangerously sick!'' "Excuse me?" Angela says, her Porygon eyes narrowing. "Then you better tell us of a way out of here quickly--" But Duosion mentions it's treatable as well. Angela's expression doesn't quite calm down. Cinder, meanwhile, saying, "Shit. I'm the wrong creature..." and her flame sputters weakly in sorrow. She tries to intercept the rolling Petra-Minun and ends up also falling over as a result due to not watching her balance carefully. Meanwhile Angela continues labeling Pokemon as they appear so everybody gets to know what to call people before looking ultimately at Tinkaton and saying, yes, "Tinkaton." "Before we concern ourselves with your world, I require assistance for ... for our Minun friend."
Kale Hearthward	Right Kale won Rock Paper Scissors, so he gets to talk to Tinkaton. He doesn't bow, but he does dip his head, and then adopts a formal stance, standing up straight, wings tucked behind his back, and one half of his heads looking attentive. "Guildmaster. Thank you for meeting with us." "We represent a foreign organization... you could call it a guild as well. The Paladins. It's as my colleague says, we're here to deal with a threat we've been informed of." "While we're ably equipped and skilled as is, we would also appreciate some local support, if you could please provide it. Information, mainly, as we're new to these lands, but also any materiel support if you could spare it." "We aren't asking this in return for nothing - we're willing to discuss whatever tasks or problems you're facing, that a well-equipped team could accomplish." "(Hurry up and get to the part where there's fighting.)" "(We're getting there, be patient...)"
Hellwarming Trio	Petra's wobblyness still has Utsuho the Fletchling and Rin the Litten lingering nearby her to give her some physical support along with giving Cinderquill a break from carrying, and even Satori the Ralts is nearby (although she's more than willing to let her pets handle the physical work there). Duosion's explanation about what Minun and Plusle are draws a slow, understanding nod from Utsuho, who flaps a wing once before hopping over to Petra. Utsuho: "You just need the right kind of energy, right? I've got an idea. Just hold still." Smirking confidently, the weird orange eye on Utsuho's chest blinks once as she starts going through her usual process of processing nuclear energy. Is it going to be safe for Petra? Who knows. Can a Fletchling body even handle the same nuclear power Utsuho normally does? Also who knows. She's done this plenty of times before in her own body, though, and nothing feels particularly off yet. So as long as she just makes sure to get the positive energy running the right way to Petra while letting the negative energy disperse through herself, it should all work out! Utsuho: "Don't worry about her, Cinder. I've got this!" Theoretically. It does start getting pretty hot around Utsuho, though, and it might even seem like she's liable to burn a hole through the floor if she keeps it up for too long. If nothing else, though, she doesn't seem worried about what she's doing, even if Petra's the one that'll be on the receiving end if she stares right where she's dropped by the Ceruledge. While Utsuho's busty with that, Rin and Satori have their attention fixed on the Ceruledge, Duosion, and Spinda. They both perk up a bit when Spinda's Gem is brought up again, and they also let out affirming noises in unison when Spinda announces their intent to help in this task. Rin: "Eh, what's the worst that could happen?" Satori: "They could die." Rin: "... Well, yeah. But they know the risk, so it's no harm no foul!" Satori: "Heroes often do show their worth when exposed to great adversity... Or die. Regardless, I'm confident we can keep them alive through this task." Ceruledge and Duosion lead them into Tinkaton's chamber, and the trio continues onwards while gawking at everything around them. The cavernous area gives them some home-like vibes that make them relax visibly, at least, and it's only when the pink thing smashes the ground that they remember that they're even in unfamiliar territory. Following Kale's lead, Utsuho and Rin go for the forward dip while Satori does a semi-curtsey despite only having the weird stumpy limbs. Satori: "Greetings, Guildmaster Tinkaton. Yes, we're here to assist with this Mystery Dungeon matter, partially for our own guild's purposes, and for..." Satori looks over at Spinda, then back at Tinkaton. Satori: "Lack of any other leads to follow. As Mister Hearthward stated, we're offering services in exchange for information, as we have plenty of combat power, but little in the way of knowledge surrounding all this. Can you assist us with that?"
Blemishine	Maria: "Oh. Plusle are fine on their own, but Minun need their other half to survive..." Maria: "That's so sad, actually..." Maria: "..." Maria: "But we're awfully lucky you all can help! This Valence is someone who can help...?" After that question, Blemishine leans her head slightly in the direction of Kale's two own, and lowers her voice enough that it's not picked up by the dialogue boxes. "Mr. Hearthward, I don't think they know a single thing about the Paladins...and maybe the whole Multiverse, even? It's sure the first time I've heard of a place like this myself..." Can't be doing that too often, though. After a chuckle at Genm's expense (and another moment where she appreciates how stupidly cool Ceruledge is), it seems like they're clear to move on in. With a grateful nod as the doorway is opened up, she only briefly saddles a little closer to Ceruledge as he takes point, to address him directly. Maria: "You're probably...worried about Spinda, aren't you? A ton of enthusiasm and spirit, but no experience yet." Maria: "...Annnnnnd not being able to walk straight probably doesn't help either." Maria: "Like you said, you don't know anything about what we can do. But everyone here...really is set on helping them!" That first bit is her impression after seeing Ceruledge being approving of Genm's boasting, at least. But she leaves it at that as they head down and down and down, with some more wide-eyed awe at how they've converted the cave into an even bigger guildhouse than the outside appearances would let on. It really is massive. And the other massive thing here is, uh... She's pretty sure she felt the ground quake a little bit when that hammer came down. This time, she's actually letting all the others address Tinkaton, while she just sort of just takes in the absolutely massive weapon.
Meika Kirenai	'I want to help save the wor-orld.' 'It isn't safe for Spinda to enter Mystery Dungeons.' Meika: "What gives to talk over h- uh, um." Meika: "To say that right in front of Spinda? What the hell? That's mean. Apologize, or something." Meika glares up at the Ceruledge, really in no place to demand or ask that of someone, but it doesn't sit good to listen to, even if the worry is probably justified. Definitely justified. It's not really a request held up by anything but a glare, though, and she knows it- hands cross in front of her chest, defensive in a time that an offensive stance would be called for. She huffs, when it is time to set out, though, and follows along, eyes on the cave-like walls and floor until the group makes it to the apparent meeting hall, or whatever its function is- the scale of the building from outside ring small compared to the scale of its interior, the opposite of cramped offices and whatnot in skyscrapers and commercial blocks. It's kind of cozy for there to be space like that. It ought to be less of a surprise than it is, that the tiny pink Pokemon slams the towering hamer against the guildhouse floor. Meika nearly jumps out of her skin, tail fluffing up and backpedaling a step at it, however- even with the tapestries and carpets to dampen it, the echoing sensation and ringing metal is a bit of a sensory overload, unexpected as it is. Meika: "W-what the- Hey! W-what's that for!" That'll have to serve as greeting to the Guildmaster, from her. Oh well. Her ears, flinch-covered by paws, flit and flicker, and she pulls her hands back away, trying to once more take a casual stance. Meika: "U-um. Yeah, it's... probably important Petra gets help quick, right? I mean... if this is..." Meika: "Yeah." Meika: "I'm- I'm a Paladins Chevalier, too. Like Chevalier Hearthw... the two weird bird heads. And, uh, others. S-sort of, in the job to try and help. I guess with the, uh, forest wish thing Spinda said... maybe?" The more she talks, the smaller she seems to get, and the more Meika feels like she's just wasting air with her words. Paws fidget with one another as best as they can with oversized claws, as Meika's attempt to assert a place of belonging fades into slightly-timid uncertainty.
Kale Hearthward	Left Kale turns 180 degrees around and gives Meika a look at the 'weird bird head' comment. Those neck stems are flexible...!
Meika Kirenai	Meika: "What? Don't- don't stare at me like that. It's weird." Meika doesn't really look back at Kale's bent-neck look, as beady eyes are harder to meet than normal ones are, even, and so she just kind of shivers, her ears flattening back a bit. Her body language often radiates passive displeasure, but with the Pokemon features she's stuck with for now, it's really quite exagerrated. Meika: "Come on. This is all kind of weird. J-just-" Meika: "...Whatever. Sorry."
Kuroto Dan	Genm shoves the sword-hand patting his hand away with what's supposed to be a quick swat, but given the difference in size and the awkward position, it comes off more like an embarrassed child shoving aside an over affectionate parent, puffing up as best he can to appear threatening. " Genm:"You dare to correct me and ascribe my declaration as a mere boast?" Genm:"And not only that, but you also dare to touch someone of my talents without permission?! Regardless of my reduced form, I am still a GO-" The Pawniard is cut off short when they're then lead to the Guild leader, which causes him to, rather than deflate, just coolly act as if hadn't just lost his temper. Because he actually didn't, but the mental gymnastics needed to explain how he was actually ahead in that social interaction requires several degrees to even begin unpacking. Genm:"So you're the so called 'Guildmaster'. I'll cut to the chase then, do as I say and tell me what I need and I'll save this loathsome world for you." A normal Pawniard would probably feel fear in the presence of a Tinkaton like him, but Genm is a different breed. Literally, he's a different breed. He just doesn't know, and if he did, he wouldn't care.
Petra Soroka	Petra is laying on the ground when Utsuho approaches her, valiantly trying to struggle to her tiny little feet so she doesn't suffer the indignity of needing to be carried by the girl that she, by role-based assumptions, should be carrying instead. She looks up at the Fletchling, a motion that twists her body in a way that sparks out a jolt of electricity, sending her tumbling away onto her back, and stares up at the sky. Petra: "Just blow me up." Petra: "This sucks so fucking bad." When Utsuho starts glowing, the electric buzzing off of Petra's body is drowned out by the competing, much more threatening, feeling of hot-prickling radiation. Petra tries to sit up, her eyes widening in alarm, but doesn't manage to get that far before swaying and falling back down. As for the effectiveness-- a torrent of ionizing radiation can do some limited amount of good for a perpetually negative rat. Petra curls up and her ears flick out, shuddering a bit, as she's bombarded with the unpleasant feeling of being close to primarily the parts of the sun that give you the worst cancer. It doesn't take long though, before Utsuho can feel the crackling current of energy established between herself and Petra, equalizing her charge. Mostly. She can't keep it up long enough to steadily balance Petra, not without toasting her, but it's enough that Petra can blearily scramble to her feet and nod in thanks before stumbling after the rest. "To say that right in front of Spinda? What the hell? That's mean. Apologize, or something." Ceruledge turns to Meika with a tilt to their eyes that suggests a frown. Then they give Maria a nod, gesturing towards Spinda with their sword. Ceruledge: "I will not apologize." Ceruledge: "Spinda will be a liability on any venture into a Dungeon." Ceruledge: "And more importantly, there's no guarantee, even with however many allies they can pick up, that they'll be kept safe." Spinda: "I don't ca-are! I'll do it anyway-ays!" Ceruledge: "I believe that, Spinda." "This Valence is someone who can help...?" Duosion: "The best person to help, mhm mhm. You got that right, yessiree." Duosion: "I'll have her right as rain, for all you concerned misses."
Petra Soroka	Tinkaton and Liligant are standing right outside of a large set of double doors, the biggest set in the expansive room, while having their... from Tinkaton's hammer-based gesticulation, it seems like an argument. A red version- Pansear-- of the monkeys seen upstairs darts out from between them, narrowly dodging a thundrous hammerswing and runs over to Duosion. Tinkaton: "Wa-BAM! HelLO there, newcomers!" Tinkaton: "You are all correct! Guildmaster Tinkaton, that's me! KAPOW!" Most of his sentences is punctuated by a swing of that colossal hammer-- and when they aren't, he just shouts the onomatopoeia for it anyways, swinging it around excitedly. Tinkaton: "You're a formal bunch, huh? POW!" The Liligant beside him, unphased by the constant crashing and banging, lightly bows back to Ru Li. The large flower on her head gives off the impression of a crown, and the leaves of her body flow out like a dress, and she reaches a leaf-arm up to carefully readjust a rustled petal. Liligant: "Ahem. Apologies for the Guildmaster's rowdiness. I am Liligant, his advisor." Liligant: "I hope you will feel welcomed here, travelers." Meanwhile, Duosion and Pansear are corroborating. Duosion sinks down in the air to just above Pansear's eyeline, gesturing towards Petra, who has at best a few more minutes of semicapable standing left in her. Pansear scurries off, and Duosion smugly rises back up to address the youkai, Blemishine, and Angela. Duosion: "Put your fears to rest, mhm mhm." Duosion: "Luckily for your dear, perpetually single friend, a Plusle does live in this town." Duosion: "Once she arrives, your friend's recovery will be, hm, extraordinary." Tinkaton crosses his arms, nodding at the Elite's introductions and making active-listening sounds of 'uh huh'. When Liligant speaks, he turns to look at her, and then holds up a hand and slams the hammer on the ground after she finishes. Tinkaton: "Travelers! Foreign lands, somewhere far away!" Tinkaton: "That sounds RIVETING. BAM!" Tinkaton: "But with the fate of the world at stake, I'll have to hold my questions!" Tinkaton: "I'll ask them during the EXPEDITION! KAPOW!" Liligant: "Sir, is that..." Tinkaton: "Absolutely! Lily, would you please give them a presentation?"
Petra Soroka	Liligant sighs and presents the Elites towards a corkboard, flipping it over to expose the side that isn't cluttered with notices and maps. From out of nowhere, she seems to have produced a pointing stick to emphasize her lecture. Liligant: "Ahem. Now, to explain the state of our world as you now find us." Liligant: "A year ago, the world was beset by strange new occurances collectively referred to as Mystery Dungeons." Liligant: "The dungeons, though full of wondrous treasures, threaten our comfort and way of life. This base, in fact, used to be one, right here in our Town." Liligant: "And so, we are searching for their source. To understand the event that caused them, control their collateral damage, enrich ourselves with their contents, and eliminate whatever is creating them. This is our goal." Tinkaton: "So! We tried to find out where they all were, and found out there was a center! Right around HERE!" Tinkaton uses his hammer as an additional pointer, which goes as well as one would expect. The corkboard is smashed, splinters flying away, and Tinkaton only has the grace to look mortified for a moment before enthusiastically continuing. Tinkaton: "Across the sea! We're going to find it! Even if it takes months! BANG!" Spinda bounces excitedly launched upwards by the hammerblow on the ground, a motion that send them tumbling to the ground as they try to land and tangle themselves up in their own feet. They roll forwards and pop right back up, presenting their gem in both hands as it dimly glows. Spinda: "My Verdant Gem! It'll show-ow-ow the way!" Spinda: "It's not evil. It ca-an't be the cause of it. It'll help save us!"
Aidan Proudpick	Every pound of the hammer sends Aidan up just a few inches before landing back down. It only seems to make him more eager. A bouncing of his knees, an eager twitch of the tail, eyes flickering. Aidan sits on the ground as the corkboard is pulled up and looks up patiently, sitting with feet together, hands clasping feet, watching eagerly. He makes active-listening sounds of 'mmhmm', nodding with every dutiful tap from Liligant. WHAM. The patrat leaps up, splinters of wood flying around his face. None of them hit, as if he were standing in that exact perfect spot, and he points a finger up to the sky. "WE WILL HELP! We'll find the source of your mystery dungeons, we'll make your world safe and peaceful again!"
Petra Soroka	During Liligant's lecture, Duosion took the opportunity to cozy up with Tinkaton and exchange some words with him. The somewhat covert aside is punctuated by Duosion gesturing at Petra, as well as Tinkaton's complete inability to keep his 'huh huh' and 'hmms' to a subtle volume. Kale, as well as anyone else with enhanced hearing, is able to make out the exchange. Duosion: "The Minun doesn't know the first thing about herself." Duosion: "Didn't even register what a Plusle was, mhm mhm." Tinkaton: "And that talk about 'our' world. (Bam)." Tinkaton: "Lily picked up on it real fast." Duosion: "Aliens, then, you think?" Duosion: "Something, hm, less savory?" Tinkaton: "They seem like a nice bunch. Gut feeling." Duosion: "Far be it beyond me to question a gut feeling of yours, dear Guildmaster, but I'll keep an eye on them irregardless, mhm mhm." Tinkaton: "(Kapow)."
Kale Hearthward	> @Meika Left Kale's gaze doesn't break for a bit, though he stops fixing her with that look when she says she's sorry. "I'm a bit freaked out about all of this too. Being called weird doesn't help, it's not much different than Spinda being told they're too weak. Or if other people here were told you or they were too weak." Left Kale glances over at Right Kale (who's focused on Tinkaton and the ongoing hammerings), pointedly, then returns his attention to Meika. "You and I are cool, though. Thanks." Right Kale is focused on Tinkaton during all this. "We'd be happy to answer all your questions. We're used to answering them, really, since we travel around a lot." Tinkaton smashes the corkboard. both Kales nod, entirely sympathetically and entirely sincerely. They don't make corkboards like they used to. It used to be you could jam a sword all the way through one, when you need to dramatically announce a mission target during the briefing, and not get someone from Facilities yelling at you about damage to the meeting room. "So what you're saying is, this area is suffering an ongoing disaster. That means... actually, I can pledge full-throated support to help you." Right Kale brings his left wing up in a salute, causing Left Kale to make a muffled squawk. "Guildmaster Tinkaton-" "(Dude get your wing out of my face. Or my wing out of my face.)" This leads to another muffled bit of bickering, during which Kale (both of them) overhears the otherwise private conversation. "Guildmaster Tinkaton," says Right Kale saluting with his right wing (that is, the wing on his right, which also happens to be the correct wing for saluting against your right forehead), "Kale Hearthward, captain of the East Wind Search and Rescue team. I'm part of my guild's disaster response team, in other words. I can pledge my full-throated support to help with this situation until it's no longer a threat to your home." If anyone points out that Kale's 'full throated support' involves two throats, Left Kale immediately pecks them.
Angela	"Good." Angela tells Duosion. Understood. which seems to be her expressing gratitude, maybe. Hard to really be sure with how little the porygon is emoting. But Angela does feel a pang of empathy for the Liligant. Something about being an aide to someone who makes your job harder is a kind of feeling Angela is intimate with. Naturally, Angela doesn't really know how Liligant feels about it, but she does seem to relax. A little. Just that. A little. "I am unsure an adventure can be wholly safe. But I also...don't particularly care if Spinda ... gets involved." Cinder is more gracious. "Oh great! Thanks for helping her out... It does suck but..." Her mind rewinds a bit and she frowns. "H-hey she's not single! How can you just make an assumption like that??" Cinder's fires flare briefly. She bounces a little with the Kapow. Cinder's fire on her back flares again when the Duosion adds that Petra doesn't know anything about herself?? "Uhhh but don't say it like that?? We are from a different place so..." That last bit is a bit of an anxious look towards the Duosion.
Aidan Proudpick	A Patrat's powerful eyes can pick up everything. Even sound. Aidan lifts a hand, waving it back and forth at the two pokemon in 'whispers', "Hey! We can hear you, we already told Spinda that we are from another world! We are all pretty much fighting for a kind of peace back there." Aidan looks around to double check. The Gemn is probably someone heroic or, at least, progressing towards some kind of good goal, right?
Dysnomia	Dysnomia inched her way into the room in time for the explanation, raising her head, her little ears--Wings? It felt like stretching her wings--flapping gently. Having only one configuration to assume left her grumpy. "Across the sea! We're going to find it! Even if it takes months! BANG!" Dysnomia: "Mystery dungeons...I don't know what kind of treasures there are to plumb, but we can work on that." Dysnomia: "We'll help you find it, one way or another." Dysnomia: "Months..." She raised her head, not liking how low to the ground this new 'normal' of hers was. She tried for a 'hm,' but what came out was a high pitched chirrup. Her tail quivered, embarrassed, before trying to go on as if it hadn't happened. Dysnomia: "S-so, expedition? When we will be setting off?"
Hellwarming Trio	Utsuho: "Eh? You sure? ... Wait, I can't do that. You're not an enemy or whatever." Utsuho: "Plus, Master'll get mad. Walk it off!" Utsuho's gambit works! Kind of! Even if it's only temporary, that's enough to get the Fletchling to preen and posture for a moment, like she's pumping her fists if she had fists instead of wings right now. She's looking a little tuckered out by the time she finishes, though, so she only manages to keep pace with Petra once it's time to move again. Upon hearing Tinkaton, meanwhile, Rin jumps a bit with each swing, but otherwise seems excited! Satori's keeping her cool in comparison, although she wobbles a bit the longer/more those swings keep going. Rin: "Hey there! Bang! I'm Rin. We can be pretty fancy when we gotta be. Yow!" Satori: "Satori, a pleasure. Some of us are, myself and Rin included, are with the Paladins." Satori: "Zap." Liligant sounds far more normal by comparison, and she gets a similar greeting from the three that Tinkaton had moments earlier. They listen again as Duosion explains the energy situation for Petra, with Rin snorting briefly until Satori gives her one of those scolding looks... And then glances away briefly to clear her throat. Definitely not a snicker. The presentation that follows captures their attention again, and they all go into that wide-eyed listening mode as they commit most of those details to memory! Or mostly to memory in Satori's case, as Utsuho isn't really the sort to be trusted with that, and Rin's already fretting over the board getting smashed before she can really remember anything on it (and also getting distracted by Duosion and Tinkaton during their quiet exchange). Utsuho: "An expedition? Oh, cool, you're joining us. Then we can really blow through those dungeons fast. Explode!" Rin: "Did anyone catch that map? I only saw it for a sec, and if we end up running the wrong way into weirder stuff... We could be in some real trouble. Uh. Boom!" Satori: "If it's across the sea, we might have to map it out ourselves anyway. It couldn't hurt to take more of a look around, anyway." Satori: "Pyoom."
Petra Soroka	After some time, Pansear returns, having presumably been sent out to fetch Valence. In tow is a a cream colored mouselike Pokemon, similar to Petra except for the red plus signs on her cheek instead. The Plusle wears a night cap over her ears, and in the hand that isn't being pulled along by Pansear, she's holding a small earthenware cup full of a steaming liquid, taking delicate sips whenever she's given a moment to stand still. Immediately when Valence comes down the stairs, the buzzing electric aura around Petra distorts, crackling painfully across everyone's skin for just a few moments before fizzling out entirely. Petra staggers, then shoots upright, her ears perking up. Her relieved expression shoots out small, controlled sparks of electricity, and she claps her hands together. Petra: "Oh!" Petra: "I feel so much better!" Petra: "... Wait, am I going to be stuck to her this whole time?" Petra: "No offense, dude, but you look like you'd die in a proper fight even faster than Spinda." Valence: "Yes, nice to meet you too, you're welcome." Valence: "I'm happy to be woken up in the middle of the night and dragged out to the Guild, it's really no problem." Valence sighs, readjusting her night cap. She walks over to Petra, tuts, and looks her up and down. Valence: "Oh, dear, you look like a wreck. Nevermind all that 'I feel so much better' business; you look like you've eaten nothing but Gummis for a month." Petra: "Hahh? Excuse me? Literally who asked you?" Valence: "Quite a few people, it seems, asked me to take care of you." Valence: "Being in the condition that you are doesn't just hurt yourself, you know." Valence: "Now come along, let's get you to the cafeteria before bed." Petra: "No--! No!" Petra: "I'm here to help save the fucking world!" Petra: "I'm not fucking infirm! I'm literally fine now!" Valence: "If you want to help save the world, dear, then wake up early tomorrow and help cook them a good meal before they go." Valence: "I'm not setting foot outside this Town, and that means neither are you." Petra: "That's--! That's fucking unfair! I'll just leave! You can't-- you can't fucking stop me!" Petra: "No--!!"
Meika Kirenai	The first hammer impact caught her off guard, but none of the rest do as much as faze her. She does her best to sit still through the explanations, and listen, until Left Kale's comment elicits a shrug from the girl. Meika: "I don't- I don't need you to preach it too me. Sure. Whatever. I get it. I won't point- I won't call you that again. Just- get off my case, it's not the same as those things." Fielding those examples gets a small flare-up of bitternes across her face, ears flitting in annoyance, as if a fly had landed on one- and bringing weakness up, especially, like it's a truth everyone's just being polite by not commenting on, deepens her usual slump. Meika: "...Yeah. Cool. Alright." 'Even if it takes months!' Meika: "Months...?" Meika: "It- It won't take that long, right? It can't. We can't be away that long..." Meika glances nervously at the other Elites-turned-Pokemon, as well as the Guild members (and Spinda! They're an honorary Guild member, to her, who has no right to think that), hoping at least one of them could offer assurance otherwise. Months, plural, is more time than she can afford. Meika: "So... how's the Verdant Gem thing even work? How's it going to show the way? If it's- it's that important to head off on it, and such..." Meika: "Don't say you don't know." That last part wasn't quite meant to be out loud, but there's no stopping the words from spilling out- and she doesn't care enough to try and take them back, anyways. She exhales, and her bushy tail waves behind her, a marker of her anxious worry, even as she forces her hands and other, more familiar motions, to stay still. Whispered talk between the guildmaster and his assistant isn't quite quiet enough to go unheard. Long ears flicker at the stimulus, and Meika nearly groans at the-- (Obviously, of course they would think something was up, of course they don't trust us, it's never that easy,) --shared worries between the two. Expecting and knowing are different, but she ought to know by now there'd always be an eye on them.
Blemishine	There's a visible wave of relief that washes over Blemishine when Duosion confirms everything will be alright - after she's started to get used to Tinkaton's constant swinging and swanging of his hammer, anwyay. As used to it as one can get. She minds it about as much as Duosion's smugness, which is to say, less than you'd probably imagine! She makes a motion to place a hand on her chest, which in her current Ponyta form, ends up just kind of nearly having her lose her balance when she remembers it's totally different from what she's used to. Maria: "That's great to hear! Ehehehe." Maria: "She hasn't been feeling good since the moment we got here, so you really are a lifesaver." Maria: "Literally, from the sounds of it!" There's a glance back to Petra, who's still thankfully okay thanks to Utsuho's efforts, and then to...Spinda. Will Petra be fine as she is, if she comes with them? And /will/ they be able to protect Spinda, even with all of them here? Ceruledge has a point there...she ends up speaking in a belated reply that's half to herself. Maria: "...Going on something like this at all is dangerous. Spinda, you really are set on this, if you're totally aware of that..." And then she goes like a foot up off the floor as Tinkaton's hammer comes down. And again, settling back down as Liligant's explanation begins. That's some super useful information, which she's interrupted from processing when another hammer swing sends shrapnel flying, and also sends her flying up extra high. Maria: "Woooooaaaaah--!!" And coming back down. All her legs scramble around in a panic, and right before she touches down, her horn has a momentary glow - and she hard stops in mid-air, hangs there for a second, then comes down much more softly. Softly but not neatly, as it's still unexpected enough that she falls over for a second. Maria: "Gweeehhh...what just...was that like...?" Maria: "Ah...first thing's first! W-What was I gonna say...?" Maria: "O-Oh, right! If Spinda believes in the Verdant Gem, then I say it's worth trying!" Maria: "You said it's been glowing in response to the Mystery Dungeons...so that should mean it should shine brightest when we're closest to the source. Don't you think?"
Ru Li Cheng	The swing of the hammer is comforting. It evokes a pleasantness, a deep-seated memory in the metal of the god's soul, a memory of warmth and light and wholeness. It's the most relaxed Ru Li has felt his whole time here in this strange world, the most relaxed he's felt off-world in general. It shows in the god's monster-face - his eye is drifted half-shut, and he floats lazily back and forth, like a child being rocked. Tinkerton's words flow in and out of his mind as he listens to the hammer. Bang. Bang bang. Bang. Bang bang. The noise is hypnotic, warm, and pleasant. Soon the ticking of his wind-up key has taken on the same beat of Tinkerton's hammer-blows, too. Ru Li: <So then, when do we leave?>
Meika Kirenai	Valence's appearance, and Petra's subsequent wellbeing-upswing, ought to be good things! And they are! And then very quickly they are not! Oh no! Meika: "That's- that's not fair. Petra's- she's stuck here like we are, don't make her stay if she doesn't want to. That s-shouldn't be up to..." Petra is a Friend, and that warrants at least a meager attempt at a defence. It doesn't change the reality that Actually Valence Is Kind Of Right and that Being Sick For Existing Sucks, but she putting words out into existence is Something, and she's trying, at least in spirit. Meika doesn't really manage to look in the direction of the two as her fur settles back down from the static burst of the Minun and Plusle's first interaction. Meika: "If- If Spinda's coming, and needs protecting, it's not like.. we won't already be focusing on keeping people safe. If you're scared, or something. It's- if it's about saving the world, what better do you even have to do instead?"
Dysnomia	The electric jolt roiling through the guild hall made Mia jump--No small feat without feet. Almost more of a spasm, really, not that it was too easy to tell the difference. Her head turned, and she couldn't help but feel a measure of a smile pass over her face as Petra returned to her old self...More or less. Dysnomia: "You can't do anything if you get yourself killed on the way." Dysnomia: "...Looks like you've got her taken care of." Seeing Petra pushed around like this was fun. Really, seeing Petra pushed around was fun. Her wings twitched, she made a high-pitched, pleased sound, and she didn't even have it in her to act too upset about it..
Petra Soroka	"S-so, expedition? When we will be setting off?" With Petra being dragged away by the ear, and everything else seemingly settled, Tinkaton puffs up his chest and starts talking logistics. He doesn't seem particularly bothered that the side conversation was overheard and openly commented on-- a lackadaisy attitude that Duosion doesn't seem to share. Tinkaton: "We set off......." Tinkaton: "Tomorrow! Ahahaha! Wa-POW!" Tinkaton: "Why wait? Strike while the iron's hot! BANG POW SMASH!" Spinda is twirling around excitedly, trying very hard not to make the inevitable fall that'll draw attention back to them and remind people that they're unsuited for this, until attention comes back to them for a different reason. A good reason! One they can help with. Spinda: "The Verdant Gem will glow-ow-ow!" Spinda: "I do-on't know why! But I can feel, deep deep dee-ee-eep inside, that it's special." Spinda: "I think you're right, Mari-ia. We'll follow the Gem!" Liligant: "Ahem." Liligant: "... As long as the Gem's direction falls within my predicted ranges, then I, too, will follow Spinda's Gem." Liligant scans the group of Elites, silently thinking something to herself. She lays a leaf hand on her cheek, and tilts her head to the side, murmuring her thoughts out loud. Liligant: "My, that Spinda. They do have a habit of attracting the strangest things." Liligant: "I still remember that day they vanished and came back grown two full inches taller." Liligant: "And now here they are, bringing aliens to our doorstep." Liligant: "I worry, sometimes." Tinkaton, for once, hits the base of his hammer against the ground, rather than the head. The heavy still impact is still loud, and jolts everyone out of their conversations, bringing attention back to him. No matter how goofy he is, Tinkaton is capable of commanding a crowd, a reminder that he's properly the Guildmaster. Tinkaton: "Alright, aliens!" Tinkaton: "We set out tomorrow, so if you want to get some sleep, we've got an open room. POW!" That POW is a gesture with his hammer towards one of the sets of doors. Liligant: "That includes you, Spinda, if you'd like."
Petra Soroka	Through those doors is a collective sleeping arrangement, almost childish in its simplicity, like a sleepover. Hay piles up in discrete but cozy beds, looking as inviting as a mattress after the long day, all gathered together in a single room. Petra, after returning from her compulsory late-night snack, seems very contented with the situation, no matter how much she pretends not to be, and settles into a bed near Cinder and Angela. One by one, the Elites all ease into slumber, in their alien bodies in this alien world. As they do, like slowing heartbeats and deepening breaths, time drifts to a halt around them, in tandem with a bellchime lullaby, sung gently into their ears. ????: "Hush-a-bye, Hush-a-bye." ????: "My good baby, sleep." ????: "Where d d my baby's trainer go?" ????: "Beyo d that m unta n, back to h r home." ????: "As a ouv ir om er h , wha d d et?" ????: " Ch o a P " You wake up in your beds, at home. The Pokemon world waits for you, whenever you want to return.