Thace (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
insidegalra) wrote in ![[community profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/community.png)
victory_road2020-08-11 09:58 pm
insidegalra) wrote in victory_road2020-08-11 09:58 pm
Entry tags:
Vacation? What's that?
Who: Thace and anybody!
Where: Sinnoh! (mostly around Eternia City)
When: duration of the trip
Summary: Thace has never had anything that could truly qualify as a vacation in his life. He's... succeeding? Maybe?
Rating: PG (PTSD mentions)
Pre-Boarding
Everything goes well, at least until one of the airline employees tells Thace that all his Pokemon must be in balls or storage for the trip. Thace had been controlling his discomfort in the bustling crowd well enough, at least until that. Vruli, the still undersized Whismur, wails at the suggestion, and it's enough to drop Thace into a defensive stance with one hand shielding Vruli and his teeth bared. It'd probably be more impressive if he hadn't been changed to human.
A little later he can be found in a quieter part of the waiting area, visibly distraught as he tries to understand his Pokemon's responses to his questions. Vruli is still sniffling and fussy, which isn't helping. He also only has six balls total, but seven companions.
Flight
Thace is very still and outwardly calm during the flight, but a closer look will show that he's very tense, and he hasn't let go of the six Pokeballs with him even once. He should be more controlled than this, but Thace misses the presences he's gotten used to so much. There's also very little to distract from that lonely ache in his chest, which makes it even harder to ignore.
Night-time wanderings
So, the hostel's tiny capsule beds weren't made for seven foot people, who could have guessed? Even without that complication, Thace's wariness ramps up in cities, and he rarely sleeps well even with an adequately sized bed. Sitting in a corner with his back against the wall is not improving that, so each night he eventually gives up after louder-than-usual nightmares and leaves one of his Pokemon (usually Brodar) on guard while he patrols.
He can be found walking around Eternia's streets with Vrig on his back, and half the time, a fussy Vruli against his chest. His steps are almost silent but have a soldier's cadence, and he doesn't stop moving, utterly alert and watchful. Unless it's someone he knows very well, unfortunately, he'll fall into a defensive stance every time he encounters someone, eyes narrowed and shoulders tense.
Museum and Library
During several days, Thace can be found either in the historical museum or the local library. He devours every scrap of information he can glean from the museum's exhibits, and is even willing to seek out staff to ask questions.
And he can be found in the science and technology sections of the library, cross referencing books from rather impressive stacks around him that contain material on Pokeballs, the computer storage system, and Pokemon communication.
Underground
At one point, Vrig communicates to him that she wants a Dusk stone, so Thace can be found on at least two of the days down in the tunnels. He works with determination, while his Pokemon remain close. Vruli, the undersized Whismur, is poking at some of the rocks Thace has dislodged with one of the tools for finer excavation, while the Noibat is giving the walls around them assessing looks. He's definitely planning something, but what?
The Gym
Thace plans to challenge the gym, so there are times when he can be found in the stands watching the matches as info-gathering. He won't say no to company, although he may want to discuss possible strategies. And eventually, he'll take his turn and inform anyone he's traveling or has gotten to know that he's doing it. Maybe they'll want to watch!
Regardless of the outcome, Thace will walk away from the battleground with head held high. Vruli gets scooped up and cuddled from where she was left to wait in the stands first, and then he'll address anyone else who was waiting for him to come out. "That was educational."
Spa day
The inn is much nicer than the hostel, and Thace is taking advantage of the facilities to do some grooming. ...Mostly of his Pokemon, although he probably could be talked into more than a purely functional wash-up for himself. His hair is damp and he's got just a bathrobe on, and all his attention is on his team.
He's acquired a shallow container with which to make a Vruli-sized bubble bath, and she's happily popping bubbles and pushing a floaty Ducklett toy around in the water. Vrig and Zaivar have already had a polish session and are gleaming (and is that some new keys on the Klefki?). But probably the happiest Pokemon present is Athvrix the shiny Espurr. She's getting a thorough brushing from Thace and is purring very loudly from where she's flopped on his lap.
Meadow Mornings
Thace makes a quick trip to the meadow, only stopping to make sure he's got his new cocoon out too, because Kaltor is excited. If it wasn't sunny before, it sure is now! Thace picks some of the berries (and Berries) at first, always leaving plenty behind, while the Cherrim frolics around in Sunshine form.
Then he finds a comfortable spot and settles down to watch Vruli and Athvrix play a weird combo of tag and hide and seek in the flowers while Vrig gives a lesson to the Cascoon that is apparently about timing. All in all, it's a quiet, relaxed morning. Mostly.
Vridka evolving quite suddenly into Beautifly is certainly exciting, and he proudly shows off his new wings to anyone who will stop and look.
Crash course in Berries (please save him)
Shortly after the peaceful morning and a very unexpected encounter, Thace heads back into town to research his new Berry find. A few questions has him pointed at the flower shop, and well, maybe he wasn't expecting the response to his inquiry about Berry growing.
Thace stands with a faint look of overwhelmed surprise while no less than two of the employees very excitedly tell him all about Berries! ...While piling his arms full of all the 'necessities' to get a start on growing them. It just may be a little too much for one man to carry all on his own, and Thace hasn't been able to get a word in edgewise. Help?
As for his Pokemon, two of them are listening with interest, while Vrig uses her tassel to help steady the growing pile of things. Athvrix can be found peeking out of a pot at his feet while Vruli carries a trowel around him in circles, very proud of her new toy.
Poffin Class
Thace is still in the flower shop at noon, although the chaos is mostly under control. His new supplies are stacked neatly, and he's intently listening to the class on Poffin making while following along.
Vruli wanted to make poffins too! She's making a mess more than anything, but with Vrig's help to steady the spoon, she might get something edible out of the experience yet.
Can you take a break from a vacation?
After all the excitement of the morning, Thace has retreated to somewhere quieter. It just so happens that it's a roof of one of the houses facing the meadow. He's reclining on his side and carefully controlling equal consumption of poffins by giving his Pokemon little bites to nibble on. If someone manages to climb up to him, he'll give them a nod. "Busy day?"
Where: Sinnoh! (mostly around Eternia City)
When: duration of the trip
Summary: Thace has never had anything that could truly qualify as a vacation in his life. He's... succeeding? Maybe?
Rating: PG (PTSD mentions)
Pre-Boarding
Everything goes well, at least until one of the airline employees tells Thace that all his Pokemon must be in balls or storage for the trip. Thace had been controlling his discomfort in the bustling crowd well enough, at least until that. Vruli, the still undersized Whismur, wails at the suggestion, and it's enough to drop Thace into a defensive stance with one hand shielding Vruli and his teeth bared. It'd probably be more impressive if he hadn't been changed to human.
A little later he can be found in a quieter part of the waiting area, visibly distraught as he tries to understand his Pokemon's responses to his questions. Vruli is still sniffling and fussy, which isn't helping. He also only has six balls total, but seven companions.
Flight
Thace is very still and outwardly calm during the flight, but a closer look will show that he's very tense, and he hasn't let go of the six Pokeballs with him even once. He should be more controlled than this, but Thace misses the presences he's gotten used to so much. There's also very little to distract from that lonely ache in his chest, which makes it even harder to ignore.
Night-time wanderings
So, the hostel's tiny capsule beds weren't made for seven foot people, who could have guessed? Even without that complication, Thace's wariness ramps up in cities, and he rarely sleeps well even with an adequately sized bed. Sitting in a corner with his back against the wall is not improving that, so each night he eventually gives up after louder-than-usual nightmares and leaves one of his Pokemon (usually Brodar) on guard while he patrols.
He can be found walking around Eternia's streets with Vrig on his back, and half the time, a fussy Vruli against his chest. His steps are almost silent but have a soldier's cadence, and he doesn't stop moving, utterly alert and watchful. Unless it's someone he knows very well, unfortunately, he'll fall into a defensive stance every time he encounters someone, eyes narrowed and shoulders tense.
Museum and Library
During several days, Thace can be found either in the historical museum or the local library. He devours every scrap of information he can glean from the museum's exhibits, and is even willing to seek out staff to ask questions.
And he can be found in the science and technology sections of the library, cross referencing books from rather impressive stacks around him that contain material on Pokeballs, the computer storage system, and Pokemon communication.
Underground
At one point, Vrig communicates to him that she wants a Dusk stone, so Thace can be found on at least two of the days down in the tunnels. He works with determination, while his Pokemon remain close. Vruli, the undersized Whismur, is poking at some of the rocks Thace has dislodged with one of the tools for finer excavation, while the Noibat is giving the walls around them assessing looks. He's definitely planning something, but what?
The Gym
Thace plans to challenge the gym, so there are times when he can be found in the stands watching the matches as info-gathering. He won't say no to company, although he may want to discuss possible strategies. And eventually, he'll take his turn and inform anyone he's traveling or has gotten to know that he's doing it. Maybe they'll want to watch!
Regardless of the outcome, Thace will walk away from the battleground with head held high. Vruli gets scooped up and cuddled from where she was left to wait in the stands first, and then he'll address anyone else who was waiting for him to come out. "That was educational."
Spa day
The inn is much nicer than the hostel, and Thace is taking advantage of the facilities to do some grooming. ...Mostly of his Pokemon, although he probably could be talked into more than a purely functional wash-up for himself. His hair is damp and he's got just a bathrobe on, and all his attention is on his team.
He's acquired a shallow container with which to make a Vruli-sized bubble bath, and she's happily popping bubbles and pushing a floaty Ducklett toy around in the water. Vrig and Zaivar have already had a polish session and are gleaming (and is that some new keys on the Klefki?). But probably the happiest Pokemon present is Athvrix the shiny Espurr. She's getting a thorough brushing from Thace and is purring very loudly from where she's flopped on his lap.
Meadow Mornings
Thace makes a quick trip to the meadow, only stopping to make sure he's got his new cocoon out too, because Kaltor is excited. If it wasn't sunny before, it sure is now! Thace picks some of the berries (and Berries) at first, always leaving plenty behind, while the Cherrim frolics around in Sunshine form.
Then he finds a comfortable spot and settles down to watch Vruli and Athvrix play a weird combo of tag and hide and seek in the flowers while Vrig gives a lesson to the Cascoon that is apparently about timing. All in all, it's a quiet, relaxed morning. Mostly.
Vridka evolving quite suddenly into Beautifly is certainly exciting, and he proudly shows off his new wings to anyone who will stop and look.
Crash course in Berries (please save him)
Shortly after the peaceful morning and a very unexpected encounter, Thace heads back into town to research his new Berry find. A few questions has him pointed at the flower shop, and well, maybe he wasn't expecting the response to his inquiry about Berry growing.
Thace stands with a faint look of overwhelmed surprise while no less than two of the employees very excitedly tell him all about Berries! ...While piling his arms full of all the 'necessities' to get a start on growing them. It just may be a little too much for one man to carry all on his own, and Thace hasn't been able to get a word in edgewise. Help?
As for his Pokemon, two of them are listening with interest, while Vrig uses her tassel to help steady the growing pile of things. Athvrix can be found peeking out of a pot at his feet while Vruli carries a trowel around him in circles, very proud of her new toy.
Poffin Class
Thace is still in the flower shop at noon, although the chaos is mostly under control. His new supplies are stacked neatly, and he's intently listening to the class on Poffin making while following along.
Vruli wanted to make poffins too! She's making a mess more than anything, but with Vrig's help to steady the spoon, she might get something edible out of the experience yet.
Can you take a break from a vacation?
After all the excitement of the morning, Thace has retreated to somewhere quieter. It just so happens that it's a roof of one of the houses facing the meadow. He's reclining on his side and carefully controlling equal consumption of poffins by giving his Pokemon little bites to nibble on. If someone manages to climb up to him, he'll give them a nod. "Busy day?"
no subject
Leslie looks like he'd rather be, though, keeping his hair-tail twined in one of Entrapta's ponytails to steady himself. "You're aware I'm from the same world as Catra, yes? I too am familiar with allegedly evil dictatorships who use weapons of destruction and brainwashing techniques to subdue their enemies. I'm intimately familiar with the manner of deeds an empire like that will commit."
In case the man thinks he's doing her a service by not talking about his experiences for her sake.
no subject
Thace doesn't elaborate on the torture. He's honestly not sure talking about it will help at all and he's trying to put it behind him.
"The trip, and having to" his voice twists with clear discomfort, "capture and store some of my companions has compounded that unease."
no subject
"I don't understand how the two correlate. I understand that peacetime gives you some manner of concern, but I fail to see the connection between it and putting your Pokemon in storage."
no subject
Then his expression goes blank. "I understand that ten is extremely young by human standards. And yet, the children are encouraged to take up an...occupation that teaches them strategy, command, and how to treat battle as fun and games."
"Worse, they do it by capturing and owning other sentient beings. The balls are usually escapable, in my limited experience, but storage is not. I care for my new... family here deeply, but I also look at them and wonder how deeply their thoughts and desires have been molded by generations of social and cultural pressure, much as the humans likely have."
no subject
She frowns then: purely just thinking. "Though ten years of age is around the time most people on my planet begin taking steps towards apprenticeships. My understanding is that this universe has a much stronger sense of independence, which is directly proportionate to their relationship with Pokemon."
She looks back at Thace. "Though I believe you fundamentally misunderstand the main points of the Pokemon-human relationship dynamic."
no subject
He meets Entrapta's gaze. "The Galra Empire conquered and enslaved. Entire species were wiped out, planets and systems reduced to lifeless dust. A favored pastime of the soldiers was forcing those slaves into an arena to fight other slaves, or non-sentient creatures driven by starvation and abuse into attacking anything in front of them. I was not much older than the relative age of the children here the first time I was taken, and expected to eagerly scream for blood and death. I was sickened and horrified instead, and I still bear the scars."
He looks away. "I want to be wrong, but all I see when I look around me is the hand of cruelty covered with soft gloves and bright adornments. I haven't been able to convince myself that I'm seeing dark connections where there are none."
no subject
She reaches up and pulls Leslie off her shoulders, carrying him like a doll in her arms instead. "From what other people have been able to study, Pokemon culture exists, and is noted as highly competitive - yet as a general rule Pokemon seem to have no inherent need to engage in combat except for the purposes of their own training or entertainment! Age, form and emotional maturity are all completely unique markers in a Pokemon's observable behaviour, and while some species as a whole are factually noted as being more prone towards aggressive or violent behaviour, evidence suggests that these broad understandings are easily disputed by frequent unique case studies."
She holds up Leslie by the armpits, and he gives a tired wave. "Take Leslie, for instance! His Pokedex has pointed out that Morgrem are prone to backhanded and sneaky forms of attack, but Leslie very rarely engages in combat whatsoever!"
no subject
"I have also noticed that the information in the Pokedex and guides often seems like a broad overgeneralization. It doesn't inspire confidence, but it may be that I haven't found enough sources to do a true comparison."
no subject
She lets Leslie wriggle out of her arms so he can land on the ground and yawn, and loop his hair-hook around a belt loop so he doesn't get left behind. "I've been engaging with my Pokemon in very fine detail soas to make sure I have a thorough understanding of what they need, regardless of their species specifics."
She puts her gloved hands in her pockets and leans into her next step with a bounce. "But ultimately the adage that Pokemon are forced to fight is typically false. There are some trainers that will do so, but they're typically seen as the exception and highly frowned upon, but Pokemon that take it upon themselves to engage with Trainer-class humans typically want to engage in combat."
no subject
He brightens as he continues, though. "I have been trying to do that as well. I would like to find a way to communicate with any Pokemon on first meeting. They seem to understand each other, and I have started to pick up on meanings with my family, so it must be possible. I haven't settled on a good way to approach it yet."
no subject
She tilts her head as she look at him curiously. "I assume you've also seen how Pokemon typically approach you when you're travelling through an area of wilderness and initiate combat? This is rarely an act of territoriality - Pokemon seem to make a very clear habit of not engaging with humans unless it's for their own personal gain."
no subject
Thace takes his time to carefully think that over and nods. "Most of my companions approached me to specifically join up with me, yes. Although a few that found me only stayed temporarily. I would ask their reasons if I could, but that's beyond my ability to comprehend their communication at the moment."