Razade
     
The Kochin Region is known for many things. Its stark mountain beauty. Temperate beaches. A culture open to new peoples and ideas from all corners of the world and most importantly, the strength of its Genmon Trainers. Today marks the annual Journey Day where trainers from around the Region take off to compete in the time honored tradition of the Elite Rankings, a competition not only to hone one's talents in Genmon battling but for the young adults to travel the Region, see its sights and grow into adults.

The air is festive in Yatsuhashi Town, a small coastal village that serves as the meeting point for all of the Trainers of the Kochin Region given its location. The three of you arrive last though festivities are still ongoing and you're all quickly swept up in them well into the evening. No one seems too much in a hurry to see you off considering your late arrival. Slow and steady, the elderly of the town tell you. You're provided a small room in the local inn for the evening when the festival ends, just enough room for you all to rest but not nearly enough room for the three of you not to be in one another's space. You've all been informed that the leading Professor of the Kochin Region will meet with you as soon as they sort out some last minute arrangements, your Genmon waiting on your beds in their capture devices along with supplies. The liklihood of an evening meeting seems low, so best to wait until morning.

Give us an introduction before you meet up with Professor Maple as the sun rises, and introduce your Starter Genmon.
D.Credibility
   Brienne Rose    the Idol
   Conditions:   
   Potential:  0/5 
 
 Spoiler: Labels 
  Reputations:  
Confidence: +1
Expertise: 0
Genius: 0
Wonder: +1
Technique: +1
 


Brienne had been expecting to get a ride to Yatsuhashi Town. Her mom had promised--after all, this was important to Brienne, and she was following in Ellen's footsteps. Ostensibly, her mother had been proud. Ostensibly she actually cared!

Ostensibly.

Brienne had let herself believe that this time would be different. That her mom would take the time, that she would be there on her first steps, that she would say something profound and meaningful that would make up for years of mild neglect and disinterest. That, in that one line, she would form the bond that Brienne had always wanted.

It was...uncharacteristically optimistic.

Brienne had, in fact, had to hoof it from her hometown to Yatsuhashi Town when her mother had to apologetically break that promise for being called to another town for some emergency or another. Fortunately, she was able to hitch a ride on an open-backed truck carting turnips.

She was coming into the most important moment of her life on the back of a turnip truck. It was so disappointing it actually  hurt , and when she came racing up to the festivities, she actually had a turnip stem in her disheveled mane of hair.

"Who's that?" a few kids had whispered amongst themselves.

"No idea. But clearly she's gonna flop hard."

It would have been an inauspicious start for an actual trainer. But she was meant to be an  idol . She needed to get by by banking on her presence. Her magnetism and charisma.

The truck that hauled her into town had more charisma than her. The  turnips in the truck  had more charisma than her...

"...wonder if it's too late to take that internship at dad's company..." she muttered with a miserable sigh as she lingered on the periphery, taking a chance to rehydrate and eat. She hadn't even had breakfast before she left.

So her appearance had not been especially prodigious. She desperately wanted to bring out her companion, her Pomiraiden Bizzit (the grandchild of one of her mother's very first and most prestigious Genmon), but she wouldn't submit the poor creature to being seen with her looking like she did.

At least one of them could bask in inconsequence for a little while.

The other downside to her method of arrival, besides being late, was that she was  exhausted . So after eating and gulping down some water (and spilling a bunch of it on herself, just for the cherry on top of the **** sundae that the day had become), she lingered on the outskirts of the gathering for a time before retiring early to her room. So when Phoebe and Rhett find their way there eventually, one of the beds is already occupied by a lightly snoring figure buried beneath a mount of blankets.

Idol indeed.
Nightzend
   Rhett Blanchard    the Transfer
   Conditions:   
   Potential:  0/5 
 
 Spoiler: Labels 
  Reputations:  
Confidence: +1
Expertise: 0
Genius: 0
Wonder: +1
Technique: +1
 



Even Rhett had to admit that the trip to the Kochin region was a bit more than he had expected. It was probably his fault for not really looking at the map before deciding on a destination. He had known where he had wanted to go though, and it hadn’t mattered how far it was from Fontaine at the time. It didn’t help that the boat ride itself had felt like an eternity. Rhett had explored every deck, opened every hatch, and thoroughly annoyed every crew member with questions until the evening Yatsuhashi Town was in sight. He had been vibrating in place by the time the boat had docked.

Rhett had thrown himself into the festivities, eating any food he could get his hands on, and then immediately scribbling down his thoughts so he wouldn’t forget the flavors. If a Genmon let him pet it, Rhett gave it scritches like his life depended on it. He got a lot of odd looks in the process.

By the time he finally made it to the room, he was almost ready to pass out just like Brienne. That changed the moment Rhett saw the capture device on his assigned bed.
 
“My first Genmon!” 

Throwing his backpack unceremoniously on the floor, Rhett snatched the capture device, and released the Genmon from within. There was brief flash of red light before the Platiquent appeared in front of him. They stared at each other wide-eyed for a solid three seconds before he scooped the Platiquent up his arms in one fluid motion.

 “You are absolutely PERFECT.”  The alarmed quacking could wake the dead.
Comissar
    Phoebe    
  Conditions: 
 Potential:  0/5 
 
 Spoiler: Labels 
 
  Confidence:   +1 
  Expertise:   +2 
  Genius:   -1 
  Wonder:   -1 
  Grit:   +2 
 
 


Phoebe finds herself drawn to the markets when she arrives at Yatsuhashi Town. The festival itself was full of excitement, but the draw of buying her first pieces of gear to get her on the road to the Elite Rankings? That was something that was hard to pass up on. And so she browses. Weighing up the benefits of different backpacks and bags, seeking out new and exciting foods for long journeys, looking at guides to the preferred battle styles of the Elites. Not that the guides told her anything more than what was common knowledge of course, but still, it was  exciting! 

As the festivities wind down, and the day starts to dim, Phoebe makes her way to the inn she'd been told her starter Genmon would be waiting for her at. She enters the room to find Brienne and Rhett had beaten her to it, Brienne trying to nap, Rhett doggedly intent on making a lot of noise with his new Genmon.

She breaks into a smile, tossing her newly acquired bag onto the last free bed before perching herself on the edge of it. " Yo. Excited for tomorrow? " Her question is mostly directed at Rhett, she's not totally sure Brienne is even awake right now.
D.Credibility
   Brienne Rose    the Idol
   Conditions:   
   Potential:  0/5 
 
 Spoiler: Labels 
  Reputations:  
Confidence: +1
Expertise: 0
Genius: 0
Wonder: +1
Technique: +1
 


Brienne didn't wake up when Rhett entered, nor did she when he initially released his Genmon.

She does, however, wake up at the sudden, flailing quacks and Rhett's cry.

 You are absolutely PERFECT. 

She sits up with a jolt and her own Genmon, the lightning pup Pomiraiden, sits up suddenly as well...except he'd been sleeping under the blankets at her side, a comforting presence for the anxious girl, so while Brienne rockets up and looks around in a sudden panic, beside her is just a mound of the blankets jolting upright and swiveling this way and that with a gentle, cautious  woof? 
 "Wh-What th--h-huh--I...wh--er...uh..."  Brienne hadn't been asleep long before she'd been woken, but she is still quite dazed as she squints around and fumbles for her glasses, which had fallen off the nightstand in her flailing.  "Wh-Who?" 

She finally seems to zero in on Rhett and blinks as her Pomiraiden, Bizzit, finds his way out from under the blanket.  "O-Oh, uh...hi there,"  she says with a weak smile, leaning off the bed to pick up her fallen glasses.  "S-Sorry, I was jus--n-nevermind..."  she mumbles, fitting her glasses on her face and smiling tiredly at Rhett's display as Phoebe enters as well.

She assumes the question from Phoebe is meant for Rhett - just the natural assumption of being excluded from the cool kids club - as she slides her legs out from under the blankets, wearing a t-shirt and sweatpants. Might as well pretend to be social before going back to bed.
Nightzend
   Rhett Blanchard    the Transfer
   Conditions:   
   Potential:  0/5 
 
 Spoiler: Labels 
  Reputations:  
Confidence: +1
Expertise: 0
Genius: 0
Wonder: +1
Technique: +1
 


Rhett turned to regard his traveling companions, gently placing Platiquent on the bed next to him.  “No need to apologize, mon ami solmnolente! How could I not be excited though? We got a whole journey to start tomorrow and there is so much to see, and do, and taste, and smell, and then there are so many Genmon here that we don’t have back home!” 

Rhett practically gets dizzy with excitement, falling dramatically onto his bed. Platiquent gives his trainer a nudge with his foot, and Rhett sits up with a goofy grin.
  “What about ya’ll? I mean, of course you’re excited, but whatcha REALLY looking forward to?” 
Comissar
    Phoebe    
  Conditions: 
 Potential:  0/5 
 
 Spoiler: Labels 
 
  Confidence:   +1 
  Expertise:   +2 
  Genius:   -1 
  Wonder:   -1 
  Grit:   +2 
 
 


Phoebe grins at Rhett's response, his enthusiasm feeling infectious. She shifts back on her bed slightly, pulling one knee up as she lets her other leg dangle off the side, " I can't wait to get in my first  proper  battle, really get started on getting on my way to the top! " She looks down at the capture device set on her bed for her, picking it up and smiling down at it, " It'll be a  long  road, but it's gonna be worth it. "

She glances up at the still-waking-up Brienne. " What about you, Bri? Got big plans ahead? "
Razade
 Bond Wallet:  1


  The Next Morning  

The sun rises bright and early here on the coast and the city center is abuzz with the typical activity of market stalls and small town life. Most seem to pay you little mind beyond the occasional glance that new faces in a place where everyone knows everyone else usually get. You're guided down clean streets by a local guide, they picked you up at the rooms you'd been given and they seem fairly set on taking you to the Professor's lab, silent and swift on their task. Not exactly the warmest of receptions compared to the almost festive air the evening prior.

Thankfully it's not a far walk, the path winding up a few hills until you come to the spacious and palatial  Maple Labs . The building sits on an equally impressive and large estate, the eponymous Maple Trees dotting the view, sugar shacks nestled in the hills. Your chilly guide leaves you at the front door though they've obviously been expecting you as an aide soon pops up and ushers you into the central lab. Charts and papers line the walls in a frankly arcane system and at the center is Professor Maple herself, lost to the world as she feeds a brightly colored fluid to a sleepy looking Bouxer. A small cough from the aide brings her attention to the three of you quickly however.

 "Oh good morning lovelies!" she offers in a sing song voice, stepping over with a small bow. "I trust your overnight stay hasn't dulled your appetite for the road? I didn't have time to give you my usual care package what with you all being tied up in your travels here. We'll get to that though, we'll get to that. You've all gotten to know one another I'm sure but you're not the last of my stragglers. They've already been given the welcome wagon but I thought maybe the three of them could wait up for the three of you before taking off to Anmitsu City. That's the first stop on your travels around the Region. Let me give you the run down before we step outside?

Brienne and Pheobe already are well aware, but this is the Kochin Region and you're all here to participate in the Regional Journey Exams, something all of you know but it's part of the speech. The three of you will travel around the Kochin Region and end up at the Kochin Proving Grounds once you've proven your ready to face the challenges the Elite have in store for you. You'll learn the ropes on the road but don't discount help for those you meet. A lot of people in the Kochin Region have taken the Exams after all and even if most fail, their suggestions and advice might still be helpful. You'll all be provided a map of the Region and the cities and towns that are participating in this year's Exams. As long as you stick to them, you won't have to worry about room or board while in their limits. I suggest you all get used to camping otherwise. I've provided the three of you a Gen'Dex in your goodie bag as well so if you get in trouble you'll still be able to get in contact with me, and other members of the Exam committe.

You've all got your Genmon I trust? Excellent. Any questions before you go and meet your new friends and set out? Concerns?" 
D.Credibility
   Brienne Rose    the Idol
   Conditions:   
   Potential:  0/5 
 
 Spoiler: Labels 
  Reputations:  
Confidence: +1
Expertise: 0
Genius: 0
Wonder: +1
Technique: +1
 

  [FLASHBACK - Trying to sleep here!]  

Brienne winces a bit at the excitement, but she shares a smile with her fellow trainers-in...well, training. They were louder than the usually shy girl tended to be comfortable with, but...

  It's good practice,   she tells herself, her smile nod fading as she looks down, her Pomiraiden wiggling out from under the blankets and putting his head in her lap.

 "I, uh...I'm just looking forward to getting away from home for awhile,"  she said, putting her hands on either side of her Pomiraiden's face and giving him a good scruffy pet.  "W-Well, I guess more...away from home on my own,"  she admits with a sigh. She didn't  hate  her family. Her father was gruff and a little too serious and diligent for her tastes, and her mom was hardly ever home, but...well...it was  home .

Still.

 "What about you, uh..."  she looked at him expectantly for his name.

  [PRESENT - Here we go!]  

Brienne is...tired. This alone is nothing new, but she'd barely been able to get asleep before Rhett's outburst woke her up. After that...yeah, no, there was no way she was going to sleep, not with the biggest day of her life looming on the horizon. So she was definitely dragging this morning while her cheery Pomiraiden had done his best to get her up and moving around, pushing her into the bathroom and bringing her hair and toothbrushes...it seems like the cheerful little pup is used to taking care of his sleepy trainer.

If Brienne felt any companionship with her two bunkmates, it doesn't show. She doesn't  avoid  them, of course, and she has nothing against them, she just...seems to expect that she'll be left to fend for herself.

She's moderately more awake - at least, not yawning every other step - by the time they reach the impressive Maple Labs and the cheerful (darned morning people) Professor Maple herself giving them the run-down of the journey. She was already pretty well aware of the deal at this point, and she's confident that her two companions are as well, but hearing Maple herself speaking so officially does a fair job of revving up her anxiety again. She looks down, running her hands over the straps of her satchel nervously and biting her lip.

Her anxiety is not helped by the rather ominous  and even if most fail .

She can't help but think that she'll soon be counted amongst their number soon enough.

She looks up quickly when it's become apparent that the professor has finished her spiel and quickly shakes her head in the negative.  No questions here. 
Nightzend
   Rhett Blanchard    the Transfer
   Conditions:   
   Potential:  0/5 
 
 Spoiler: Labels 
  Reputations:  
Confidence: +1
Expertise: 0
Genius: 0
Wonder: +1
Technique: +1
 



If Rhett was tired, there would be no way to outwardly tell. From the moment he stepped out of the inn, he was back to staring at everything with wide-eyes as if he lived his entire life in a cardboard box. With Pascal the Platiquent hanging from his shoulders, the only thing that kept the excitable young trainer from wandering off and getting lost was that there was a guide preventing it from happening. Rhett had the courtesy to not interject during Professor Maple’s speech, but it was clear he was going to have questions by the way he was holding his breath. When Professor Maple finished, Rhett exhaled, and a stream of questions followed.

 “How are the Exams graded? Was I supposed to study? Can you fail the Exam? Are there any good restaurants in Anmitsu City? Who are the Elite? Are there any bad guys we should watch out for? Can I pet your Bouxer?” 

By the time Rhett finished speaking, he was red-faced and desperately trying to catch his breath.
Comissar
    Phoebe    
  Conditions: 
 Potential:  0/5 
 
 Spoiler: Labels 
 
  Confidence:   +1 
  Expertise:   +2 
  Genius:   -1 
  Wonder:   -1 
  Grit:   +2 
 
 

  The Past  

" Yeah, that makes sense. " Phoebe nods at Brienne's explanation, " Nothing quite like getting on the road and broadening your horizons! "

She looks over to Rhett expectantly as Brienne directs her question to him.

  The Present  

Phoebe has a spring in her step the following morning. If it bothered her to have missed out the previous day on getting going, it doesn't show. Instead she seems positively chipper as she makes her way to Maple Labs. She gives a bob of her head in greeting as the Professor introduces herself to them all, listening intently to her explanation of what they could expect on the road. She catches Brienne beginning to stew in her nerves out of the corner of her eye. She scoots a little closer and, under her breath, asks " ... You ok, Bri? "

More loudly, when the Professor finishes speaking, she pipes up and asks " Is there a specific route you'd recommend we take? " She grins, " I'd rather not run headfirst into a wall, so to speak. "
Razade
 Wallet  :  1


  The Team, Professor Maple: Maple Labs  

Professor Maple beams at the questions, seeming genuinely excited for the enthusiasm.  "I'll take the last question first. You'll be taking Route 1 as required. There are some branching paths further out in the region but for the first legs its pretty much a straight shot. We don't want you tykes to get lost or turned around after all. Some of the mountains can get pretty dangerous so we want to make sure you're prepared and tested for the challenge." 

The Koshin Region is well known for its three mountains, a large caldera at each peak. The lowlands and beaches you've started on may be scenic but it's probably not entirely without design that you started here and the map shows a fairly winding series of Routes that take you from the lowest of the three peaks to the highest and then back down the other side to the lush temperate forest valleys nestled before the mountains themselves.

 "Now in order of questions for Rhett. They're graded on your performance and by how far you make it. That depends on how prepared you want to be. Yes, you can fail the exams but you won't so let's not worry about that. I wouldn't know, I don't get out much. The Elite are the top four Trainers of the region and they oversee the Exams. I'm sure you'll meet them along your journey. Of course there are no bad guys, Koshin is very safe. Yes, if he'll let you."  The Bouxer does not, in fact, seem like it will let you.

Professor Maple gives a clap of their hands to conclude the rapid fire answers, smiling wider.  "Anything else? We don't want to keep your new friends waiting!" 
Nightzend
   Rhett Blanchard    the Transfer
   Conditions:   
   Potential:  0/5 
 
 Spoiler: Labels 
  Reputations:  
Confidence: +1
Expertise: 0
Genius: 0
Wonder: +1
Technique: +1
 

  
THE PAST (Because I missed a thing, oops!)  

The giddy trainer from far away slapped his own head jokingly as he realized his mistake.  "Pardon, I'm a bit giddy and apparently forgot mah manners. Rhett Etienne Blanchard, at ya' service."  Rhett offers a little mock bow from his seat.  "And honestly, I'm just here to take in the sights." 
  
THE PRESENT (Because that's where we are!)  

Rhett stares at Bouxer with a heartbroken expression before turning back to Professor Maples.  "I guess that's everything I can think of..."  
Razade
 Wallet:  1


  The Team, Professor Maple,   

With introductions and all the usual fanfaire finished, Professor Maple leads you out back of her laboratory into a cozy little arena. Just as she said, three others are already there and waiting and each perk up when they see the Professor with the three of you in tow. "Here are the other stragglers I was telling you about." she seems to say to the entire assembled group, finding a place to sit as she motions the six of you towards the arena proper. "Rhett, Phoebe and Brienne please meet Angelica, Rosemary and Juniper. I'm sure the six of you will be the best of friends on your adventures. This is customary, why don't the six of you have a little sparring match before you set off? Let's see...Rhett and Juniper, Phoebe and Angelica and that leaves...Rosemary and Brienne. If you please? One on one."

  Rhett and Juniper  

Juniper offers you a smile as she moves to her side of the arena laid out for you, you know it's a smile even though you can't see most of her face. She sends out a Mosseasel which scurries about for a few moments to get it's bearing before a snap of its Trainer's fingers brings it to full attention. She then motions to you, Rhett. It's now or never.


  Phoebe and Angelica   

Angelica gives a small, polite bow before moving to her side of the arena laid out for you.  "I hope you don't mind terribly if we finish this up quickly? We're already a bit behind schedule and I'm certain we'll have more than ample opportunity to battle once we're on the road. Let's just try to get this over with?"  she asks, sending out a Flightling which seems far more eager to get to the fight than it's owner as it kicks and flutters about in agitation.


  Brienne and Rosemary  

Rosemary gives a wave before moving to their side of the arena laid out for you, wasting no time in sending out their Spoul, the small spider busying itself with a web while it waits for further instruction.  "Should I know you?"  Rosemary's voice is soft, almost timid as they appraise you over the battle field.  "You look familiar. I'm not really sure I'm ready for this...I feel like I drew the short straw here...but I guess we're ready when you are."  
Comissar
    Phoebe    
  Conditions: 
 Potential:  0/5 
 
 Spoiler: Labels 
 
  Confidence:   +1 
  Expertise:   +2 
  Genius:   -1 
  Wonder:   -1 
  Grit:   +2 
 
 


Phoebe grins when the Professor introduces her to the new three, giving a quick wave in greeting to them. " Nice to meetcha! "

She glances back to the Professor briefly as she gets paired off with an opponent, giving a nod, before following Angelica off to one side. She gives a short laugh as her opponent asks to finish the fight quickly. Rolling her shoulders as she takes up her own position, she responds with " No worries! I'm happy to make this quick! "

Releasing her Solkid onto the field, Phoebe grins and adds, " I'm happy to give you a rematch down the line too, of course. It's tough to lose your first match! "

She strikes a dramatic pose, thrusting a hand forward, her Solkid mirroring the motion with a cry as it manifests a stubby arm of pebbles and soil. " Let's go, Solkid! "

Solkid roils forward across the ground, the soil in front of it rolling up to join its body as the ground behind it sinks back into place. It sends a clump of pebbles flying at the Fightling, which it dodges, but Solkid gives a cry of success. The Fightling lands in a rapidly sinking patch of soil as Solkid draws the ground into itself. Before Angelica can call out to help it, Phoebe has yelled out " Now! Slam it closed! " Solkid yells out with a high pitch cry, the soil crushing inward and encasing the Fightling, leaving it with only its head poking out from the ground, totally immobile.

With the battle clearly done, Phoebe recalls her Solkid and walks over to shake Angelica's hand. " Hope I don't discourage you. Is your plan to get to the top of the Elite Rankings too..? "

 
 Spoiler: OoC 
Rolled an 8 for Dueling Angelica, choosing to ask "What's the goal of your journey" for my option.
 
D.Credibility
   Brienne Rose    the Idol
   Conditions:   
   Potential:  0/5 
 
 Spoiler: Labels 
  Reputations:  
Confidence: +1
Expertise: 0
Genius: 0
Wonder: +1
Technique: +1
 

  [FLASHBACK - So much for sleeping]  
Brienne continues petting her Pomiraiden, who wiggles his little tailless behind eagerly at the attention.

 "I'm, uh...I'm Brienne. Brienne Rose,"  she says with a shy, tired smile.  "It's nice to meet you, Rhett." 

She turns her gaze to Phoebe, finding her whole...demeanor...to be a little more intimidating than the laid-back Rhett, even with his obvious exuberance. She has a very driven demeanor rather than Rhett, who seems to almost scream "sightseer".

It's hard to meet her gaze, and Brienne looks down after a moment.

  [PRESENT - The biggest BOOF]  

That Brienne was not expecting a battle - a  proper  battle - so soon was immediately very obvious as the trio is guided out onto a Genmon arena and introduced to some random kid that she's expected to just...just  battle ?!

Is this how proper trainers were expected to behave? Just pick a random fight with the first person you see?

She doesn't have a lot of time to ponder this, however, before Rosemary is--o-oh, she's talking!

 "O-Oh, sorry I--what? Uh...I don't think we've met?" she says a bit helplessly as Bizzit bounces around her eagerly. "I-I'm Brienne Rose--you...know that already, yeah, uh...we're ready..." 

Brienne had battled before, of course, but this felt like an entrance exam that she hadn't prepared for...

She kneels down to give Bizzit a vigorous scruff petting before closing her eyes and taking a deep breath. Marshal's words come back to her.

 You've already succeeded by taking that first step out the door. Everything after that is just a formality. 
 "Just a formality..."  she says, opening her eyes and standing.

 "Alright, Bizzit, let's do this!"  she calls out, and her excitable electric hound bounces onto the field.  "Disorient it!" 

Bizzit lets out a low rumble...before barking loudly - deafeningly so, in like a sudden and debilitating thunderclap.

 
 Spoiler: Duel 

Duel = 5 (or 6 if you live in an abject unreality like Kyle)
"On a miss, it’s a stalemate. You’re equally matched."
 
Nightzend
   Rhett Blanchard    the Transfer
   Conditions:   
   Potential:  0/5 
 
 Spoiler: Labels 
  Reputations:  
Confidence: +1
Expertise: 0
Genius: 0
Wonder: +1
Technique: +1
 



Having not expected a duel this quickly, even Rhett’s cheery demeanor faltered long enough to display his surprise. The moment passed though, and he skipped over to the other side of the arena to face his new rival with an excited grin.

 “My first duel, how excitin’! And you’re the mysterious quiet type! So cool!”  Seeing Juniper sending out their Mosseal, Rhett fights the urge to pet the new, adorable Genmon, instead attempting to focus on the fight ahead. He goes to release Pascal (his amazingly awesome Platiquent) from their capture device, and nothing happens.  “Huh, is this thing broken?”  

Pascal, who was still hanging on his back from earlier, gives an eager quack before clambering down their trainer, and takes a fighting stance facing Juniper’s Mosseal. Rhett glances down, his face turning red from embarrassment.  “Not the best start, but we got this! Show em’ what you got, Pascal!” 

The Platiquent gives a fierce and somewhat squeaky battle quack as it lunges towards Mosseal. The Mosseal scurries out of the way of Platiquent’s attempted strikes, but giving the former no chance for a counter attack.  “Allons, Pascal! You got em’ on the ropes, now hit em’ with the ol’ one-two!” 

Pascal quacks, opening their mouth, and firing two high speed bubbles at Mosseal. The first connects, but only popping after the second makes contact. With just enough force, the attack manages to send Mosseal out of the arena.

With the match done, Rhett scoops up the victorious Pascal, then offers Juniper a friendly smile and a polite bow.  “Bon combat, mon ami.”
 
 
 Spoiler: OoC 
Rolled an 9 for Dueling Juniper, choosing to ask "the opponent reveals something about them" for my option.
 
Razade
 Wallet:  1

  Phoebe, Angelica  

The look on Angelica's face is certainly not a happy one as you bring the duel to a quick conclusion, but she did ask for that right? She recovers quickly at least as she recalls her fallen companion back to its capture device and gives the offered a quick, perhaps overly rough, shake.   "No, I'm not really interested in the Elites. I just want to catalog all the diverse dishes our Region has and make a cookbook. If you'll excuse me? I think my companions, and yours, are finished."   She gives a small nod of her head before moving off to her Companions who quickly depart there after.


  Brienne, Rosemary  

The little Spoul dances and moves about with surprising control, and while it takes a few moments to catch, the cause is obvious when you do. Thin lines of thread connect back to Rosemary's fingers which twitch and move about as they direct the little spider Genmon. The sonic blast seems to disorient it but not before it sends a wad of webbing to muck up your Pomiraiden's muzzle. It would seem even from this brief exchange the both of you are evenly matched.

With both your Genmon incapacitated, Professor Maple signals time. Rosemary gives you a small bow before collecting their Genmon back into its capture device and shuffling off to meet up with their companions.


  Rhett, Juniper  

Juniper gives a small, agitated dance, in defeat, kicking at the dust for a few minutes before collecting their fainted Mosseasal in its capture device. She approaches you quickly, arms flailing a bit before she seems to catch on you have no idea what she's doing. It's only a moment after she fishes out a notepad that it's clear as she hands you a hastily scribbled note before trotting off to her team. "I've taken a vow of silence until I've defeated ally my foes. You're on the list." The note then ends with a small cartoon icon of Juniper sticking her tongue out at you.


  Phoebe, Brienne, Rhett, Professor Maple  

Once the trio are gone, Professor Maple steps forward. "How exciting." she sighs, holding out some potions to bring your Genmon back up to full strength.  "You should get after them before too long. Route 1 awaits! I took the liberty of updating the TravelNav's in your care packages while you were getting to know your new friends. If you get into trouble, you can always give me a call and I'll make sure there's someone nearby to help you out. Don't be a stranger, I'm here to do what I can! Now go, go and explore the world!" 
Nightzend
   Rhett Blanchard    the Transfer
   Conditions:   
   Potential:  0/5 
 
 Spoiler: Labels 
  Reputations:  
Confidence: +1
Expertise: 0
Genius: 0
Wonder: +1
Technique: +1
 


Rhett, seemingly unphased by being on Juniper's hit list, gave Professor Mabel a radiant smile.  "Thanks for everything, Professor. We won't let ya' down!" 

Now focusing on his companions, Rhett reached into his overstuffed backpack, rummaging through it for what felt like an eternity until revealing a thick, leather-bound travel guide with dozens of mult-colored page tabs sticking from every direction. He licked his thumb, turning several pages until he found what he was looking for - ROUTE 1.
 
"Alrighty! I think I'll take the lead here. I've been reading all about Koshin tryin' to get ready for this journey, and I think I have good sense of direction in general. So, lets hit the road! Today is the second most important our lives, because your first birthday is like, technically more important." 

Pascal offers a neutral quack of support.

 "That's the spirit, Pascal! Whats the worst that can happen anyways?" 
 
 Spoiler: OoC 
Rolled an 5 for Travel, choosing "The Villain Team has meddled, the GM will tell you how" and "The Route has a Weather Tag".
 
D.Credibility
   Brienne Rose    the Idol
   Conditions:   
   Potential:  0/5 
 
 Spoiler: Labels 
  Reputations:  
Confidence: +1
Expertise: 0
Genius: 0
Wonder: +1
Technique: +1
 


Brienne drops down to a knee, holding her hands out for Bizzit, who struggling to get the webbing off of his snout.

"Sorry Bizz," she says softly, guiltily. "Looks like I gave you a bad order. C'mere, lemme get that off..."

She spent the next few minutes wrestling with the sticky substance to clear off her Genmon's snout. She eventually uses the potion provided by the Professor, shyly avoiding both her and her teammate's gaze, feeling as though she had...underperformed in the eyes of both them and her own Genmon. But of course, the moment the web was cleared from her companion's muzzle, he practically lunges at her, knocking her onto her butt and licking her happily.

Clearly the loss means little to the cheerful pup.

She looks up when the professor speaks and gives an uncertain smile. Such a lackluster performance normally would have put her in a state, moping all day. But...well...it could have been worse, she supposes. And no one here seems to criticize her for it.

Maybe she was harder on herself than others were likely to be...

 "Th-Thank you ma'am, I...I promise I'll do better next time!"  she says quickly before turning and rushing after her companions.

Including the overeager Rhett.

 "O-Oh! Ok--well, it seems only reasonable to let you decide where to go since Phoebe and I--y'know...live here and everything...but are you sure we shouldn't use the Professor's navigation data...?"  she asks, looking worriedly at the large tome that Rhett holds.  "I mean, she knows where we're supposed to be going, right...?" 
Comissar
    Phoebe    
  Conditions: 
 Potential:  0/5 
 
 Spoiler: Labels 
 
  Confidence:   +1 
  Expertise:   +2 
  Genius:   -1 
  Wonder:   -1 
  Grit:   +2 
 
 


Phoebe gives an appropriately impressed look at the mention of a cookbook. " That sounds pretty cool, maybe y- Oh, uh, ok. " She gives an awkward smile as Angelica excuses herself, " I look forward to meeting you again! "

Well. She'd probably warm up to her with time. Hopefully.

Shaking her head, Phoebe heads back over to the Professor. She echoes Rhett, " Yup, thanks prof! " She grins as he then offers to take the lead through Route 1, " That sounds good to me! " Her grin broadens as Brienne expresses her doubts at his ability to navigate from an old map, " Honestly, I'm game to do it this way, it should be fun! We might even find something we wouldn't have if we used a more up to date map! "
Razade
 Wallet:  1
 
 
 Route One: Highway to the Kochin Region  
 Grade:  4
    

The path out of town is well worn, you're not the first Trainers to set out this week, let alone ever. The Professors notes, if you bother to check, notes that Route 1 has become more or less a tourist spot, safe and simple and free of most wild Genmon that the other travel routes are known for. It's a small trip from the coast into the bamboo forests that spread out across the southern coastal range, the Route cutting through it and up the mountains. Someone long ago paved the route, large stone stairways winding up what would otherwise be steep and arduous mountain trails and before long you are high enough to see quaint Yatsuhashi Town below through the occasional break in the towering bamboo.

The one danger, especially this time of year however, is the frequent rain storms that roll in off the waters, becoming full on storms by evening before they rumble their way past the mountain peaks. Halfway up the long and manicured trail the first signs of a storm comes in heavy drops but before long the stone pathway has become a practical river. Forging ahead will certainly be difficult unless you go off trail. Lucky for you all, it seems others have taken this idea, a small roadside tent with an inviting glow and several large umbrellas laid out to keep out the steady rain isn't too far up ahead. Outside stand two damp but otherwise eager looking folks, a dark purple cape draped over both their shoulders, packs and travel gear set down within the tent. One of them seems to notice you, waving you down.  "Here! You can wait out the rain!"  they shout. The warm fire is certainly inviting. What do the three of you do? Forge ahead? Or take up these strangers offer for warmth and dry.
D.Credibility
   Brienne Rose    the Idol
   Conditions:   
   Potential:  0/5 
   Gear:  1 
 
 Spoiler: Labels 
  Reputations:  
Confidence: +1
Expertise: 0
Genius: 0
Wonder: +1
Technique: +1
 


Brienne keeps the Professor's notes close. She's not necessarily against doing things a little more spontaneously, but...well, there's a reason she gave them her notes! She doesn't want them to get into trouble right out of the gate because they took a wrong turn and ended up in some dangerous area with wild Genmon that could eat them alive!

And it seems like their first challenge isn't, in fact, that far out, rolling over them in the form of an oncoming storm. But a potential solution presents itself almost immediately, and Brienne seems eager to jump on it.

 "I think we should take them up on it,"  she says in a low voice, Bizzit running around her legs excitedly, eager for the oncoming storm.  "Trust me when I say we don't wanna be caught out in a storm this time of year right out of the gate..." 

The latter comment is directed at Rhett. She doesn't know much about what his region is like, but she suspects he's not naturally waterproof!

 
 Spoiler: OOC Moves 

Rolled for Gear = 6 (1 Gear Point)
 
Comissar
    Phoebe    
  Conditions: 
 Potential:  0/5 
 
 Spoiler: Labels 
 
  Confidence:   +1 
  Expertise:   +2 
  Genius:   -1 
  Wonder:   -1 
  Grit:   +2 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Gear 

Unspent Gear - 4

Declared Gear;
 


Phoebe isn't short on breath by the time she's forced to slow by the poor weather, she's used to  some  hiking and walking, so the climb up the trail isn't exhausting, but she  is  starting to feel the strain of a day's walking uphill. A glance up to the sky as the first drops of rain fall confirm that this isn't going to be a short shower. Part of her feels the romance of the adventure, the idea of trekking through the warm rain up to the summit of a mountain trail definitely held some appeal. But... The idea of staying dry and clear of the incoming storm held  more  appeal than the hypothetical romance of trekking through the rain. The offer of shelter was, therefore, not an unwelcome one. It seemed Brienne shared her opinion.

With a grin, Phoebe glances to her travelling companion and nods her agreement, " Honestly, yeah. I'm good waiting for better weather. " She glances up to the sky, raising an arm above her head to try and ward off the steadily increasing rain, " Hopefully won't be too long to wait it out, and yeah, Bri's right, the storm's can get pretty heavy here. "
Nightzend
   Rhett Blanchard    the Transfer
   Conditions:     Zilch
   Potential:    0/5
   Gear:     4 (Undeclared)
 
 Spoiler: Labels 
  Reputations:  
Confidence: +1
Expertise: 0
Genius: 0
Wonder: +1
Technique: +1
 


Rhett had spent most of their brief yet adventurous hike on Route 1 in a balancing act of taking in the beautiful scenery and reading through his trusty travel guide. It was Pascal's vigilance and well-timed quaking that kept Rhett from tripping or bumping into his own companions. He was the last to notice the weather, immediately closing his guide, and stuffing it away in his pack before it could get damaged.

Rhett frowned, clearly not pleased with this development.  "So soon? I was really hopin' we'd make it much farther our first day...  He was more torn than one might have expected. We're it just him and Pascal, he would've attempted forging ahead despite the weather. The hesitation was only momentary though. If his friends wanted to wait out the storm, then he would wait with them.  "Alrighty, let's wait it out then. 

Rhett approached the tent, and offered a friendly wave.  "Ya'll mind if we join ya'?" 
 
 Spoiler: OoC 
Rolled a 4 for Gear.
 
Razade
 Wallet:  1
 Grade:  4


  The Crew,  The Bandits  The Helpful People by the Side of the Road  
 "Oh no!"  the person who waved you down says, motioning to the warm and inviting tent.  "Please, warm yourselves up! I'm Nakamura and my compatriot is the wonderful Goemon. We saw the storm coming and knew you young'uns would be traveling through here. Most got well past us before the storm hit but I guess even Journey Day has some stragglers huh? We've got a stew on as well, if you're hungry. Storm shouldn't last all night but if it does we've got plenty of dry bedrolls. No need to sleep soaked. We'll stay out here while you all get comfortable."  

Goemon, the other purple caped figure opens the tent flap wide, a warm smile on their grizzled face. Nakamura, the youthful lady of the pair, moves off a little even into the road, seeming to be looking for other stragglers. The tent is, as promised, dry and warm and a small furnace sits at the center of the cramped space. The smell of cooking meat and veggies is hard to resist but getting dry is probably a priority. The storm, despite what your newfound friends, suspected, rages well into dark, the winds buffeting the tent something fierce by the time dinner is passed out. The two roadside assistants are a quiet bunch, leaving you well alone at least until supper time.

  "Why were you so late?"   Goemon finally rumbles after you've all tucked in.   "Don't you wanna travel with your friends?"   Their tone is slow and halting, seeming to try and pick the words that best fit together and not having a particularly easy time of it. Nothing compared to the warm, almost matronly tone of his compatriot.
D.Credibility
   Brienne Rose    the Idol
   Conditions:   
   Potential:  0/5 
   Gear:  1 
 
 Spoiler: Labels 
  Reputations:  
Confidence: +1
Expertise: 0
Genius: 0
Wonder: +1
Technique: +1
 


Brienne was still damp from the sudden downpour by the time everyone had settled in, but Bizzit had blithely fallen asleep next to the heater after turning around twice and flopping over. It took him all of two seconds to start snoring softly.

She glances to the others, still rubbing a towel through her hair vigorously to make sure it was dried. It wouldn't do to get sick her first day out...

 "Well, uh...we didn't exactly  choose  to be late. And I can't speak for the others, but I don't have any friends from home participating in Journey Day. So...I kinda got to set my own pace. It just happened to coincide with..."  she nodded to Phoebe and Rhett in turn, letting her towel drop around her neck and laying a hand down on Bizzit.

 "But what brings you and Nakamura out here?"  she asked, a bit puzzled. They were definitely older than the typical Journey Day fare, and they seemed to have just been...waiting for them.
Nightzend
   Rhett Blanchard    the Transfer
   Conditions:     Zilch
   Potential:    0/5
   Gear:     4 (Undeclared)
 
 Spoiler: Labels 
  Reputations:  
Confidence: +1
Expertise: 0
Genius: 0
Wonder: +1
Technique: +1
 


Rhett immediately had gone for the stew, eyeing the food with such a fierce look of scrutiny that one could assume he thought it was poison. Eventually, he grabbed a bowl from his pack and filled it with a modest amount of stew before sitting down next to his friends. He took a cautious first taste, taking in the flavors. Rhett tsked under his breath, reaching for his pouch of spices, and adding a dash to his bowl. Pascal sniffed the stew from over his trainer’s shoulders. There was a quack of approval.

 "I’m not from around these parts. Long boat ride away from home, but definitely worth it. 
 
 Spoiler: OoC 
Of course Rhett is a food snob.
 
Comissar
    Phoebe    
  Conditions: 
 Potential:  0/5 
 
 Spoiler: Labels 
 
  Confidence:   +1 
  Expertise:   +2 
  Genius:   -1 
  Wonder:   -1 
  Grit:   +2 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Gear 

Unspent Gear - 4

Declared Gear;
 


Phoebe is happy to accept the offer of a warm fire and a dry tent, sitting close to the heat and just enjoying letting her clothes steam dry. The smell of the stew was particularly enticing as well, she hadn't been expecting to be getting a properly cooked meal on her first day out of town, but she was more than happy to be proven wrong. Taking out her own bowl, she gives Rhett a moment to serve himself a portion before giving herself a generous helping. She's blowing on her stew to cool it when Goemon returns to the tent.

Nodding at the explanations the other two gave, she adds, " It's a marathon, not a sprint. Taking an extra half day to set out's not gonna hurt us in the long run, I'm sure. " Taking a couple of mouthfuls, she tilts her head, " Howsabout you two? What brings you guys up here? Just watching out for us stragglers? "
Razade
 Wallet:  1
 Grade:  4


  The Crew, The Bandits The Helpful People by the Side of the Road  

The pair seem happy to listen, actually oddly invested in the answers which to most seem like they'd be pretty obvious. It's not like this sort of thing is uncommon, especially in a region that's not quite as urban like Kochin is. An elbow to the rib from Goemon startles Nakamura from their thoughts, motioning at Phoebe with their spoon and a quick laugh.  "Yeah that, we're just ya know...we saw the storms rolling in and got worried about all you youngsters so figured we could lend a hand. By the time we got set up everyone had moved through but hey! Lucky for you we were here! Storm's pretty serious!"  

The two exchange a look before Nakamura motions to Rhett.  "What's that you got on your grub? Smells good, think you might wanna share with your new friends Nakamura and Goemon?"  Nakamura offers what one might call a warm smile if they'd never actually seen someone smile before, the helpful stranger holding out their bowl for a piece of the action.  "What're friends for right?"  Goemon follows suit when they catch on, holding out their bowl as well.
Comissar
    Phoebe    
  Conditions: 
 Potential:  0/5 
 
 Spoiler: Labels 
 
  Confidence:   +1 
  Expertise:   +2 
  Genius:   -1 
  Wonder:   -1 
  Grit:   +2 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Gear 

Unspent Gear - 4

Declared Gear;
 


Phoebe raises an eyebrow, shooting Brienne a glance as their two hosts fawn over Rhett and his use of spices. She shrugs, though. Who was she to deny the other two their opportunity to have spice added to their food. " Well, it's definitely appreciated. Pretty tough to keep supplies from spoiling in weather like this. Would've sucked to have to head back to restock when we'd only just left. "
D.Credibility
   Brienne Rose    the Idol
   Conditions:   
   Potential:  0/5 
   Gear:  1 
 
 Spoiler: Labels 
  Reputations:  
Confidence: +1
Expertise: 0
Genius: 0
Wonder: +1
Technique: +1
 


Brienne was a naturally anxious person by nature, and these two--well, they were nice. But that's the problem. It's not like she isn't used to nice to a degree, but from strangers? In the middle of the road during a storm? All too eager to share their tent and food with people  they'd  never met before?

The old adage "too good to be true" was one she lived her life by.

But she doesn't say anything to her new friends, not wanting to seem paranoid or like a stick in the mud. She hesitantly spoons up some stew of her own by the time they were asking Rhett for spices...though while their attention was diverted, she gave it a quick, curious sniff...but shrugs.

  Not like you know what poison even smells like,   she thought with a roll of her eyes.   Idiot  .

But she does catch Phoebe's glance, her own brow furrowed a bit, perhaps...trying to convey that she was a bit suspicious. But she didn't want to be caught acting ungrateful if this was just a case of a couple people setting up a camp in a thunderstorm as a genuine act of kindness.

 
 Spoiler: Moves 

Investigate = 11

"Do these two mean us harm?"
 
Nightzend
   Rhett Blanchard    the Transfer
   Conditions:     Zilch
   Potential:    0/5
   Gear:     4 (Undeclared)
 
 Spoiler: Labels 
  Reputations:  
Confidence: +1
Expertise: 0
Genius: 0
Wonder: +1
Technique: +1
 


Rhett glanced down at the bowls held in front of him, then to the faces of his their hosts. Nakamura's smile was...unnerving. It was like someone trying to force a smile while in a smelly outhouse. Still, it was a simple request and fair one.

 "Pardon my rudeness, I'll share with ya'll. It's a potent blend though, so I hope you can handle a little spice." 

Rhett leaned over with the spice bag in one hand, and very carefully offered a pinch worth of the fiery red powder to the bowls. Pascal watched the process with unusual interest.

 "Anyone else want some? You won't find this kinda flavor anywhere else. You could say this is my rarest, most valuable possession." 
 
 Spoiler: OoC 
Boyyyy Dinnnnneerrr
 
Razade
 Wallet:  1
 Grade:  4


  The Crew, The Bandits The Helpful People by the Side of the Road  

The pair are more than happy with their request being met, both mumbling that Rhett wasn't being rude at all. They sound genuine in that as they start to scarf up the now spice laden stew. It does however appear that they aren't accostmed to spice at all as they start to sweat and pant, their faces turning a bright red though even as they suffer they seem happier for it.

  "That's silly."   Goemon coughs through the pain, glancing at the spice bag with suddenly renewed interest.   "Treasure's like, gold and stuff. You saying that spice sells like gold?"   The outburst earns the slower witted of the two a sharp rap at the back of his head from Nakamura who seems to have not passed out from the heat though it was certainly touch and go there for a few moments.

 "Ignore'em. We've been out here so long he's forgotten'is manners. Say thank you to the nice boy and let's all maybe tuck in to supper and a warm bed roll? Storm should pass by morning."  She offers, a further glare causing Goemon to fall silent, sweating from the food though certainly from the icy stare of their companion.
D.Credibility
   Brienne Rose    the Idol
   Conditions:   
   Potential:  0/5 
   Gear:  1 
 
 Spoiler: Labels 
  Reputations:  
Confidence: +1
Expertise: 0
Genius: 0
Wonder: +1
Technique: +1
 


She wrinkles her nose a bit before nudging Bizzit awake and surreptitiously lowering her bowl so he could sniff it.

 "And just…how long have you guys been out here?"  she asked, glancing down as Bizzit sneezes and rigorously shakes his head.

Worrisome.

She glances to her friends, a bit worried now. She was fully aware that she was likely being extremely paranoid, but something about this didn't smell right…literally. Along with being a world-class idol, her mother had also spent years as a Genmon doctor (albeit with considerably less renown), and Brienne recognized the smell of foreign agents.

She was pretty sure she smelled it her.

 "Did you come back to Yatsuhashi Town for Journey Day?"  continuing to stir the food before bringing a spoonful to her mouth…to blow on it before stirring it again, trying to act like she was just a little neurotic about the temperature of her food while also watching their reactions.

They sure did seem eager to get them fed and sleeping…
Comissar
    Phoebe    
  Conditions: 
 Potential:  0/5 
 
 Spoiler: Labels 
 
  Confidence:   +1 
  Expertise:   +2 
  Genius:   -1 
  Wonder:   -1 
  Grit:   +2 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Gear 

Unspent Gear - 4

Declared Gear;
 


Phoebe glances to the entrance of the tent at the mention of having to wait out the storm. She was no expert on weather patterns, but with how heavy the rain was, she could believe it. " I mean, yeah, treasure means all kinds of things, right? " She looks back to their hosts with a smile, " For some people that's gonna be stuff worth money, other people it's gonna be their friends or companions. "

Phoebe shrugs, unpacking her sleeping roll from her pack and setting it beside her while she waits for her food to cool. " At least if we're together we can ward off some of the cold, right? "
Nightzend
   Rhett Blanchard    the Transfer
   Conditions:     Zilch
   Potential:    0/5
   Gear:     4 (Undeclared)
 
 Spoiler: Labels 
  Reputations:  
Confidence: +1
Expertise: 0
Genius: 0
Wonder: +1
Technique: +1
 


Rhett made quick work of his stew, the spices seeming to have no ill effect. If anything, the heat of the spices warmed his body from the inside, and reminder of home seemed to visibly comfort him. He set his bowl to the side, then sighed in relief as he leaned back.

 "There is also like buried pirate treasure, which I don't think is a thing here. A lot of things can be treasure though, like my friends, spice blends, and Pascal here." 

Rhett booped the Platiquent on his bill for emphasis, who yawned in response.

 
 Spoiler: OoC 
smol post
 
Razade
 Wallet:  1
 Grade:  4


  The Crew, The Bandits The Helpful People by the Side of the Road  

The pair grumble a bit at the question, glancing back and forth between each other as if it weren't really expected.  "Couple weeks. We come out to get firewood and keep the roads clear."  Goemon mumbles under a stern gaze from his companion, not meeting her eyes.  "We didn't know it was Journey Day until we saw everyone moving through and then the storm blew through. It's just that time of year here. You three should keep that in mind. Gets real stormy and you won't always have your friends Goemon and Nakamura to help you out." 

Nakamura nods, still keeping her gaze fixed on her companion.   "Yeah, we stick around this area but there's always people to lend a hand. That's just how Kochin is. Real friendly place. It's getting late though, you all must be exhausted. We'll go stand watch while you three tuck in, we're night owls at any rate. Back to the wet, Goemon. We'll wake you when the sun rises. If the storm's still going, we've got some rain coats but we'll be moving on."   she offers rather snappily, her slower companion offering up a few feeble whines before the pair step back out.
D.Credibility
   Brienne Rose    the Idol
   Conditions:   
   Potential:  0/5 
   Gear:  1 
 
 Spoiler: Labels 
  Reputations:  
Confidence: +1
Expertise: 0
Genius: 0
Wonder: +1
Technique: +1
 


Brienne glances to her companions, seemingly glad that these two..."helpful souls" don't seem to notice that she didn't eat her food. She wishes she'd had a way to alert Phoebe and Rhett about what she suspected, but...

Bizzit is settled now, flopped onto his side, but he seemed awake...

...alert. The two are clearly of similar mind.

 "Thank you for your hospitality..."  she says softly, having quickly poured a large amount of her stew back into the pot when they weren't looking. She sets aside her bowl and turns to make as if she's getting her bedroll prepped to sleep in.

But the moment they leave, she quickly turns to Phoebe.  "Ph-Phoebe, I think these guys are...not good,"  she whispers, wincing at the rather feeble description of her worries.  "W-We need to get out of here..." 

She doesn't even know what was in that stew. She hopes it wasn't anything overly dangerous...though if it wasn't dangerous, what is she even worried about?

She winces but shakes off that worry. She needs to trust her intuition.
Comissar
    Phoebe    
  Conditions: 
 Potential:  0/5 
 
 Spoiler: Labels 
 
  Confidence:   +1 
  Expertise:   +2 
  Genius:   -1 
  Wonder:   -1 
  Grit:   +2 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Gear 

Unspent Gear - 4

Declared Gear;
 


" Hmm..? " There's a sleepiness to Phoebe's response. She must've been more tired than she realised. There's a muzziness to her head and thoughts that have been bought on by the warmth and the food. It's almost pleasant. She frowns softly as she processes Brienne's whispered warnings. The pair had been weird, sure. But  dangerous ..?

" ... You sure..? I know they've been a bit weird, but they've given uuuusss~ " Phoebe stifles a yawn, then continues, " They've given us food and a place to stay dry. They can't be  that  bad, surely..? "
Nightzend
   Rhett Blanchard    the Transfer
   Conditions:     Zilch
   Potential:    0/5
   Gear:     4 (Undeclared)
 
 Spoiler: Labels 
  Reputations:  
Confidence: +1
Expertise: 0
Genius: 0
Wonder: +1
Technique: +1
 


Rhett lets out of audible yawn, stretching his arms out before slumping over slightly the sleepiness began to weigh down on him. The stew hadn't seemed that filling, but he could've been tired from the hike leaving Yatsuhashi Town. Had they walked that far? He considered checking his guidebook, but he couldn't quite find his sense of urgency. Besides, Nakamura said it was really late. It was time to lay down anyways.

  "I don't know about ya'll, but I am tuckered out."   Rhett turns to see Brienne whispering to Phoebe, and immediately feels left out. To remedy this, Rhett attempts to scooting over towards his companions, but instead just falls over closer to them.   "Oops, didn't mean to do that. What're ya'll talkin'about though?"  
 
 Spoiler: OoC 
smol post
 
Razade
 Wallet:  1
 Grade:  4

With some warm food in your bellies, and the sound of the storm slowing to a mere torrent of rain, not to mention some sleeping powder in a few of your bowls, the evening wears down to slumber time. Your erstwhile friends however are still quite awake, waiting. They've waited long into the night to strike but their plan soon kicks into full swing. Goemon creeps into the tent, bag at the ready as they move to collect your Capture Devices while Nakamura keeps the flap open, the gleaming eyes of her Genmon companion peering out of the gloom, their shape indistinct.
D.Credibility
   Brienne Rose    the Idol
   Conditions:   
   Potential:  0/5 
   Gear:  1 
 
 Spoiler: Labels 
  Reputations:  
Confidence: +1
Expertise: 0
Genius: 0
Wonder: +1
Technique: +1
 


And the hapless, naive travelers remained blissfully, peacefully asleep, completely heedles of any wrongdoing…

…well…two of them did, anyways…

Staying awake hadn't exactly been difficult for the neurotic trainer. Brienne had detected something off about the food, had vaguely recognized the scent as something similar to what her mother would have used to calm an anxious Genmon back in her veterinary days. But…she hadn't been able to bring herself to say anything, not until it was too late.

To be fair, she hadn't been sure, not until her new friends had all but passed out, leaving her with a falling pit in her stomach at the clear and obvious proof that she should have acted…

…that she has messed up…

She had tried to wake them, but it was clear they were struggling with their consciousness, and she was afraid that making too much of a scene might have alerted the two right outside…and even then, she held out hope - a panicked, futile hope - that she was wrong.

She knew now how foolish she'd been.

And she knows now that she had to make up for it.

 ”H-Hold it right there!”  she scrambles to her feet, Bizzit - who had been quietly told to wait for her signal - leaping up and sparking, growling menacingly…or as menacing as a small electric puppy can.  ”I-I know you drugged them, b-but I'm…I’m not going to let you hurt them! S-So just…just leave!” 

…the sad thing is, she's about 50% more menacing than she had expected she'd be…and about 500% less menacing than she would have liked.

But she has to try.
Razade
 Wallet:  1
 Grade : 4


A sound of starteled backpedaling can be heard in the dark, Goemon scrambling back out of the tent and into the still stormy weather as sparks fly from within. There's some cursing from his companion before the high beam of a flashlight illuminates inside the tent.   "What are you doing up!?"   Nakamura can be heard from outside, Goemon being shoved back inside with a whimper.  "You're supposed to be asleep."  he states dumbly, nursing his backside where he was unceramonsily kicked.  "Just give us your Genmon and no one gets hurt."  
Comissar
    Phoebe    
  Conditions: 
 Potential:  0/5 
 
 Spoiler: Labels 
 
  Confidence:   +1 
  Expertise:   +2 
  Genius:   -1 
  Wonder:   -1 
  Grit:   +2 
 
 

 
 Spoiler: Gear 

Unspent Gear - 4

Declared Gear;
 


Phoebe is woken from her dreams of giants crashing through the mountains to a confusing scene. Her head was fuzzy, everything seeming to be just out of focus, and she blinks to try and resolve what was going on. Brienne was... Squaring off against one of the two hosts..?

" Heeey... Wha's going on..? "

She frowned, her speech sounded slu r red and drawn out to her own ears. It took more effort than expected to push herself up to a seated position and she has to shield her eyes as a flashlight abruptly beams inside.

" Just give us your Genmon and no one gets hurt. "

" ... Noot a chaance. "

Fumbling for her capture device, Phoebe holds it tightly, shuffling to her knees, " Las' chance... Back off... "

 
 Spoiler: OoC 
Rolled a 4 to Sweet Talk by trying to be Intimidating. Going to choose "You picked the wrong person to mess with, and they’re going to show you why" for complication
 
Nightzend
   Rhett Blanchard    the Transfer
   Conditions:     Zilch
   Potential:    0/5
   Gear:     4 (Undeclared)
 
 Spoiler: Labels 
  Reputations:  
Confidence: +1
Expertise: 0
Genius: 0
Wonder: +1
Technique: +1
 


Between the raised voices of everyone around him, the cartoonish snot bubble that inflated with every snore popped on Rhett's nose. He jolted upward, still disoriented.


 "Just give us your Genmon and no one gets hurt." 

Rhett looked at down at Pascal's capture device that was still on his waist. He felt relief, then confusion. The tent was dark with the exception of a set of flashlights pointed in group's direction. Brienne looked like she was trying to be intimidating and Phoebe fumbling for her own capture device.

 "Eitherrr dis izza weird nightmare, or we're being robbered."  Rhett looked down again, confirming that he was wearing pants. "Oh. Gass we're bein' robbered."


 
 Spoiler: OoC 
smol post
 
D.Credibility
   Brienne Rose    the Idol
   Conditions:   
   Potential:  0/5 
   Gear:  1 
 
 Spoiler: Labels 
  Reputations:  
Confidence: +1
Expertise: 0
Genius: 0
Wonder: +1
Technique: +1
 


Oh. This is...not good.

Brienne had pretty much expected to have to fend off these villains on her own, but somehow having her friends be...sorta awake makes her feel even more on edge, more vulnerable--

No, makes her feel like  they're  more vulnerable. And she needs to step up.

 "Y-You heard my friends,"  she says, trying to fight off that sudden awkward, damning shake.  "You're...you're n-not getting our Genmon! S-So just...back off!" 

While she's not especially intimidating, her voice cracking away, the sparkling, growling Genmon at her side is somewhat moreso. While Bizzit is generally pretty laid back, he clearly senses the stress and strain in his trainer, and similarly senses the threat that their not-so-gracious hosts pose for them...

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Convince [Confidence+1] = 7
 
Razade
 Wallet:  1
 Grade : 3
  
The Heist is Up!  

Goemon doesn't really seem to know what to do though as Phoebe moves to stop the imposing Grunt he gives a harsh shove to put her down. The further resistance saps any further efforts from the giant, Goemon glancing back out the tent.  "They don't wanna, Nakamura"  he whines, sounding more frustrated than upset. "What should we do, the others just gave up. I don't wanna fight."

An exasperated groan issues from outside the tent, Nakamura's arm reaching back in to tug her companion out after shoving him back in in the first place.   "Listen up you little snots. We've been gentle but I've got a Spoul on my side and I'm not afraid to battle with it if you don't give up quietly. I don't know how the sleep potion didn't work on you but you'll regret not just dreaming peacefully. You've got until the count of three to decide. Three!"  

She sounds pretty serious, and she's got a Genmon of her own! What are you going to do?

 
 Spoiler:  Brienne 
Take +1 Forward against the thieves
 

 
 Spoiler: Phoebe 
Mark a Condition
 
D.Credibility
   Brienne Rose    the Idol
   Conditions:   
   Potential:  0/5 
   Gear:  1 
 
 Spoiler: Labels 
  Reputations:  
Confidence: +1
Expertise: 0
Genius: 0
Wonder: +1
Technique: +1
 


Brienne doesn't seem to visibly react to the announcement that they have a Genmon in their possession - it was an assumption she had made going into this "negotiation"...and the confirmation of that only seems to make her more determined, while Bizzit hunkers down a bit more, sparks flying off of his fur.

  "W-We'll take our chances,"   she says, lamenting the fact that she couldn't shake the omnipresent tremble in her voice...but she feels more confident than she sounded. Which is weird.

She  never  feels confident...but she has additional motivation to be strong.

This is all her fault, after all, and she is  not  going to let these jerks hurt her friends.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
+1 Forward against these jokers
 