victory_road | Come Alive, Come Alive

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Come Alive, Come Alive - It Takes Two!

Who: Everybody!
Where: Riegfried and Soy's mansion
When: September 22nd
Summary: Come one, come all to the newest contest hosted by Riegfried and Soy. Today's theme: it takes two!

You follow the directions to the mansion--whether it be by foot, by train, by sea, by Pidgeotto, you are greeted with the sight of Riegfried and Soy’s sprawling mansion. Those who attended Prom earlier this year will recognize it. It seems to have been restored to its previous state--no Team Rocket members breaking in and trying to take people’s Pokémon (as far as you know), and security seems to have stepped up significantly from last time.

But this contest isn’t taking place in the hallowed halls of the estate. The mansion itself is strictly off limits, save for those who may need to pop in and use the bathroom--it’s for the insurance policy, you see. Signs direct you to the back garden, where the pair have taken the liberty of setting up what looks to be an outdoor celebration. With the roses and flowing fabrics lining the flora, it almost looks decorated to invoke a sort of garden wedding. Beautiful overhead arches line the pathways, perfect to take a photo under or perhaps even confess to that special someone. There are many photographers snooping around, ready to snap a candid shot for you and give you a polaroid for free. A keepsake, to remind you of your time at the contest.

Additionally, exquisitely decorated and carefully trimmed topiaries line the area, most of which display romantic scenes. Nymphs dancing beneath the shade of a willow tree, a pair of Adonises reaching for each other, a figure getting on one knee and proposing to another surprised figure--so on and so forth. At the end is a lone topiary carved into a strange, cylindrical shape. It’s hard to tell what it is from a distance, and it certainly doesn’t look like a person. If you ask either Riegfried or Soy, however, they’ll proudly proclaim that it’s...a cup noodle. They do not elaborate any further.

At least it explains the comically large chopsticks sticking out of the bush.

Off to the side, there are many activities in which contest-goers can participate. You have your typical fare that you might see at any event--the photo booth, a face-painting stall, a variety of carnival games--but you also have concession stands that provide romantically-themed items, like spaghetti for two and macarons shaped like hearts, and even a boating station in which you can set off in a rowboat on what looks to be a pond specifically constructed for this event.

The stage is set up at the center of the garden, complete with spotlights and booming speakers, and a small trailer in the back for anyone who wants to get changed for their set. Not only are you allowed to bring your own costumes, but Riegfried and Soy have generously provided an expansive selection of ornate (and gaudy) clothing for you and your Pokémon to use in your performance.

Also, glitter. Lots and lots of glitter.

What are you waiting for? It’s time to compete!

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

Submit your entries here. What we are looking for is information on what your character (or characters) are doing, and how their Pokémon are carrying out this performance. To help you along, we create a small form to fill out. Should you run into any questions, please use the previous OOC info post to ask them!

If a pair of characters are competing, only one player needs to submit their entry.

Edited 2021-09-23 19:18 (UTC)

Trainer(s): Jaskier
Pokemon: Lotus (Audino) and Calym (Togekiss)
Move: Rain Dance, Thunder Wave, Helping Hand, Fly, Life Dew, Sweet Kiss, does Megaevolution go here as well, Fairy Wind, Misty Terrain.

Costume: Audino is wearing this hat and his Megastone on a necklace around his neck, he's also carrying this umbrella. Togekiss has a glitter pattern and little jewels on his face plus anklets on his feet. And while the attention will be on the Pokémon, Jaskier will still be on a corner of the stage playing the music, so of course he dressed up for the occasion as well, his trusty ukulele on his hands.

Act: At first, only Jaskier and Lotus appear on the stage. They both bow for the audience before getting ready: Jaskier moves to the farthest corner of the stage -as demanded by the rules- and sits on the edge while Lotus leaves his closed umbrella in the center.

Because an original song didn't do very well last time, Jaskier is doing a cover again. But the first chords he plays are a random tune as set-upfor Lotus to begin his act: pretending to be surprised with a paw on his cheek, he looks up as he uses Rain Dance. Oh, it's raining! This cannot do! He picks up the umbrella, opens it and twirls it in front of him as Jaskier finally begins to play and sing a more upbeat cover of a song he's heard on the internet.

"♫ You have my heart / And we'll never be worlds apart / Maybe in magazines / But you'll still be my star ♫"

Something sparks in a dark corner of the stage then, illuminating the other Pokémon: it's a Thunder Wave, used by Calym pretending to be miserable under all the rain and thunder. Lotus stops the umbrella twirling to gasp when he sees him.

"♫ Baby, ‘cause in the dark / You can't see shiny cars / And that's when you need me there / With you I'll always share ♫"

After putting the umbrella over his shoulder, Lotus extends a Helping Hand towards Calym, who chirps in delight before Flying to join his partner under the umbrella.

"♫ Because when the sun shines, we shine together / Told you I'll be here forever / That I'll always be your friend / Took an oath, I'mma stick it out to the end / Now that it's raining more than ever / Know that we'll still have each other / You can stand under my umbrella / You can stand under my umbrella ♫"

With Life Dew sparkling around them, both Pokémon move hand in hand (or shall we say, paw in wing) as they dance around the stage, hopping in puddles. After a couple of cute little jumps, Lotus slips and falls to the ground, getting all wet and his hat crooked. He covers his face with his paws, feeling rather embarrassed.

"♫ You can run into my arms / It's okay, don't be alarmed / Come into me / There's no distance in between our love / So go on and let the rain pour / I'll be all you need and more ♫"

But Calym isn't bothered by this little accident! He fixes Lotus' hat, then gently moves his paws away with his wings to Sweet Kiss his cheek. Such a sweet gesture makes Lotus smile and causes him to Megaevolve.

"♫ Because when the sun shines, we shine together / Told you I'll be here forever / That I'll always be your friend / Took an oath, I'mma stick it out to the end / Now that it's raining more than ever / Know that we'll still have each other / You can stand under my umbrella / You can stand under my umbrella ♫"

Lotus grabs the umbrella again and climbs on top of Calym, who uses Fly to quickly go up in some daring twirls that match Lotus' umbrella twirling. Calym also uses Fairy Wind to make it look like glitter is twirling around with them.

As the song fades away, the Pokémon come back down. Calym lands first and Lotus jump off his back, activating Misty Terrain as soon as his feet touch the ground, creating a pink wave OF LOVE~ that surrounds them when they bow for the public.

Trainer(s): Claude von Riegan
Pokemon: "Voir" (Umbreon), "Melusine" (Milotic)
Move: Voir - Moonlight, Charm, Attract, Guard Swap, Covet, Assurance, Helping Hand, Copycat, Round
Melusine - Rain Dance, Safeguard, Facade, Disarming Voice, Attract, Blizzard, Coil, Rest, Round

Costume: Voir's outfit is simple, but the color theory is perfect. He's wearing a little yellow scarf around his neck (dangling artfully, but kept short enough to not risk entangling his legs) and a similarly yellow sash around his middle, like a belt. Both are the perfect yellow to complement an Umbreon's own markings.

Melusine's accessories don't seem quite as fitting, at least in the sense one might not expect to see them on a Milotic of all pokémon - she's actually got some decorative armor plating strapped to part of her length. (Why do Riegfried and Soy have armor for snake-like pokémon? Don't ask questions.) She's also got a blue sash around...well, some part of her that's evidently meant to indicate a belt, but where does one even find a waist on a Milotic? Wherever one wants, apparently. The blue does accentuate Melusine's own natural blue coloration, though, so there's at least a good eye at work.

Act: When Claude walks onstage, he's wearing a stylish but also rather more somber outfit than usual. He tends to go for yellow and gold with accents of other colors, but this outfit is predominantly black.

Likewise, he's not wearing that bright smile he usually does.

He offers a slight bow to the audience, but that's his only acknowledgment of them before he moves to the side of his stage and releases his pokémon - Voir the Umbreon, and Melusine the Milotic. The two pokémon aren't romantically involved, like Dimitri's ratbians or Grindy and Karimala; rather, they've been chosen for what they represent to Claude. Melusine was Sylvain's starter, gifted to Claude when he left...and Voir was bred for Claude by Sylvain, at Claude's request. For Claude, that makes them the right pokémon to enact the one love story he currently feels fit to tell.

First, the scene is set. Voir uses Moonlight, bathing the stage in palely illuminated darkness. Then Melusine uses Rain Dance, both bringing the light level down a bit further and causing a light drizzle to fall on the stage. (This is partly for mood, and partly because it's a lot easier for a serpentine Milotic to slide around on a wet surface than a dry one.) The illusory moon overhead functions almost as a sort of spotlight for the middle of the stage, highlighting the pokémon there and casting everything else in shadow to cut down on distractions.

From there...a whole little story unfolds, as the pokémon begin using moves in succession. One can, indeed, track the progression of a sort of narrative.

First, Melusine draws herself to an imperious height, using Safeguard. Voir, however, bounds up to her playfully, using Charm. This seems to soften Melusine, who lowers her head a bit toward Voir - though, judging by her then using Facade, she's not quite on board just yet. Voir promptly uses Attract, trying to draw her in closer. Melusine, now clearly amenable, uses Disarming Voice to sing an invitation to Voir. Suddenly, however, Voir seems to come over nervous, retreating a bit as he uses Guard Swap. Melusine doesn't appear deterred, however, moving after him and now using Attract herself. Voir, approaching slowly, uses Covet. Finally, Melusine lowers her head and Voir bumps his against hers, in a touching show of mutual affection. Clearly both skittish pokémon have finally gotten on the same page.

The two begin playing together, with Voir playfully prancing around Melusine and the Milotic sinuously following his movements, occasionally firing off mutual Attracts to each other. But then the scene shifts, as Melusine uses Blizzard and curls herself flat on the floor of the stage, covering her eyes with her beautiful fan-like tail. Voir immediately runs up to her in concern, using Assurance and Helping Hand as he nuzzles her. As the snow quickly subsides, Melusine Coils around Voir, nuzzling him in return in clear gratitude for his comfort. Then she uses Rest, suddenly falling asleep with her coiled body going slack around the Umbreon. Voir gently butts her with his head, trying to wake her up, and seems unsettled by this...but after a few moments, he Copycats her Rest and curls up against her.

Soon enough, of course, the two pokémon wake up and go back to romping. Now, however, they both begin to use Round, singing to each other(and simultaneously creating their own music for the performance). The call and return goes back and forth, with Melusine's voice in particular being particularly beautiful...

Until, without warning, Claude calls Melusine back into her ball, and she disappears from the stage.

Voir seems incredibly distressed, if not panicked, running around the stage and clearly looking for Melusine. But it's quite obvious she's gone...and when the Umbreon seems to accept that she's not coming back, he sits down desolately in the middle of the stage, ears drooping, and sings out one last Round, which goes unanswered. Judging by the hanging head, he doesn't even anticipate the reply he predictably doesn't get.

He stays there until the Moonlight fades and the house lights, in effect, come back up.

Trainer(s): Rei Ayanami
Pokemon: Mitochondria (Duosion), Chlorine (Haunter)
Move: Light Screen, Night Shade, Pain Split, Curse

Costume: The costumes are very minimal. Just some sparkles dusted on top of both to make sure the largely incorporeal pokemon do not vanish under the stage lights. A little glint of light. Sequins, in the shape of vests. They took a very long time to apply. The Duosion has largely white sequins, and the Haunter's are a very dark shade of purple.

Act: The act begins with both pokemon as just mere suggestions of shapes on the stage. One pale and green, the other purple and ominous. Mitochondria uses light screen to create a shimmering shield around itself. At the same moment, Chlorine will use night shade to create a dense, roiling fog around the stage floor.

The two pokemon circle each other for some time. Dancing, or some strange version of it. One bobs, the other weaves. One ducks, the other spins. Slowly they cross the stage, reducing the distance between them with each pass. A spotlight follows them. Until eventually they touch. A small touch. Just one hand in ghostly hand. The spotlight creates a single point of light in a dense sea of fog, centered on this, this one simple touch.

And then the fog rolls in, so that only the glitter of sequins can be seen to keep track of the pokemon. Until it seems as if there is only one shape, floating on the stage. Mitochondria uses pain split, and thus splits almost in half, a writhing, red pain removed from itself. Chlorine uses curse, a dark, violent nail driven into its heart, releasing a dark, blue mist.

The red and blue mix and interweave on the stage. Flowing into one another. Until the energy becomes purple. Until the two colors have become one. Joined together. A mix of pain and sorrow.

The fog dissipates. There is Haunter. There is Duosion. And between the two there is another ball of energy. Just for a moment. A hint of sequins glittering in the light.

Then the lights come up and the curtain falls.

Rei does not step out from the side of the stage unless she is called upon to do so at the end or beginning of her performance. If she is called upon, she will bow to the audience to thank them for their time, all without a word. Her pokemon will follow her.

Edited 2021-09-23 23:51 (UTC)

Trainer(s): Rainer Michelle
Pokemon: "Mini-Me" (Ditto), "Gummi" (also Ditto)
Move: it's Transforms all the way down (with a side helping of Kinesis)

Costume: Mini-Me, who has the ability to use Transform to take human shape and speak human language, will be Transforming into a doppelganger of Rainer and wearing an elaborate pink gown. Gummi will be going au naturale.

Act: As a lovely blonde woman and a small pink Ditto walk out onto the stage, people might do a double take. 'Wait, I thought Rainer was wearing a different dress? And that she was a wheelchair user???' A brief glance around the audience will reveal that yes, Rainer is indeed using her wheelchair, and wearing a lovely gown that is purple, not pink. But, as the Rainer double raises her microphone and begins to speak, all eyes are brought back to the spectacle on stage.

"Finding love," she says, "can be hard." Gummi the Ditto contorts their usually neutral expression into an exaggerated frown. The Rainer clone continues, "It can be all too tempting to try to change oneself, to fit whatever molds you think a potential partner might like best."

"Some people want to fall in love with someone who is beautiful." As if on cue, Gummi Transforms into a Milotic, floating its serpentine body through the air and fanning out its tail fins, making sure the stage lights catch each iridescent scale and make them really glitter.

"Other people might prefer a partner who is strong." The Milotic reshapes itself into a tall and broad Machamp, which flexes its muscles for the crowd, garnering many 'ooh's and 'ahh's.

"Some people want to fall in love as quickly as possible..." The Machamp's many arms fold in on themselves as Gummi swells and contracts and takes on the sleek black body of a Speed Form Deoxys, who poses as if at the starting blocks of a race.

"...While others want someone who will stay loyal forever more." The Deoxys takes off! And mid-stride Transforms into a large, fluffy Arcanine who bounds around the circumference of the stage, before coming to sit faithfully at Mini-Me's feet, tail happily wagging as it grins a perfect puppy smile.

"Some value intelligence over all other traits..." The Arcanine becomes an Alakazam, who brandishes its silver spoon, focuses all its concentration on it, and uses Kinesis to bend it, to a round of applause from the audience!

Mini-Me continues, unfazed. "...But others want a partner who is brave in the face of uncertainty." The Alakazam extends its spoon-holding arms out to either side, where they Transform into wings, as Gummi takes the shape of a Braviary. It then pumps those wings, soaring out and doing a loop-de-loop over the crowd's heads, before turning and divebombing the stage--!

"Many of those seeking romance want a partner who is in touch with their emotional side." At the last second, the Braviary reshapes into a blob which does a somersault and comes out the other side in the form of the Legendary Mesprit, hovering pleasantly over the floor of the stage, its twin bejeweled tails bobbing and sparkling in the lights.

"Some may want someone who takes the utmost care with their personal grooming." Gummi Transforms once again, this time into a Debutante trimmed Furfrou, the hat-shaped fur atop its head bowing demurely as it blushes at all the attention it receives from the adoring crowd.

"Others have lower standards, and may settle for someone who can keep themselves clean." The Furfrou shrinks down to become a small, furry Mincinno, which uses its long brushlike tail to begin sweeping any dust off the stage floor.

"Sometimes," Mini-Me adds finally, "We just want someone soft and cuddly to hug." Mincinno's sweeping takes it over to Mini-Me's feet once more, where it Transforms into a nice round Wigglytuff. Mini-Me crouches down and gives the Wigglytuff a nice big hug, once more eliciting a chorus of 'aww's from the audience.

Once the hug is over, Mini-Me pulls back so that her hands are placed atop the Wigglytuff's shoulders, and she looks it in the eye as she speaks into her microphone, voice kind, yet solemn,

"But, in the end, the best way to find love is just to be yourself."

As if to illustrate her final point, Mini-Me Transforms back into their natural Ditto form, performing an impromptu mic drop as they lose shape and structure in their hands. Seeing this, Gummi's eyes go wide as it, too, Transforms back into its original form. The two Dittos give each other another hug, then turn to face the crowd and give a triumphant bow.

The crowd (hopefully) erupts into roaring applause. Rainer even rises from her chair to give a standing ovation!

Trainer(s): Zuke
Pokemon: Terbangan (Rillaboom), May (Toxtricity- shiny Amped)
Move: Drum Beating, Noble Roar, Leaf Storm, Discharge, Charge, Spark, Overdrive, Boomburst x 2

Costume: Zuke and his crew are dressed in formal punk rock attire that matches their personalities and with each other. Zuke has a cane with him too with this get up Hat and all. May came with a sassy hardcore dress that was cut to expose the strums on the chest. Terbangan was wearing the top half of this carrying a cane as well on stage. Zuke will be playing music but to the side, and however more he will just be setting off the main act with some humble bongos.

Act:

What was "love"?

The stage started off pitch black. In the middle there's some silhouettes of Pokemon in some kind of formation. In the way corner of the center stage was Zuke, sitting down on the ground, in his punk rock gear, and he played around a minute of this little ditty before...slowly phasing out. Standing there, he raised his hands in the spot light and soon, he chanted.

"1...2....and a 1-2-3!!!"

And then, it happened. With a resounding Discharge, the stage was lit and May and Terbangan stood in the center with May strumming on her chest guitar and Terbangan playing his grassy set of drums. Zuke stood in the middle with his eyes closed and hands firm on his cane planted in the ground, nodding to the music. Playing a loud melody together, it started off as a joint Boomburst from the both of them. The song went as well, with Terbangan going hard on the drums and May setting off her stuff on the bass. With every riff, she went to to Charge herself. Her fingers were glowing and sparkling with electricity as her dress started to Spark with her. The bursts of electricity would catch on Terbangan's Leaf Storm. Zuke stood there, like an statue, glowing with the light and standing firmer and firmer with determination. The leaves were glowing and almost look like fireworks and the song continued. Terbangan's more solid drum solos were met with Drum Beating, making vines surround them, only to brighten with May's electricity. Almost like they made their own center stage. In the final moments of the number, May would slam harder on bass...going into full Overdrive. Her dress would flow with her, completely changing colors from the pink and the purple she had on. Thus, completely unleashing energy from her electricity as she would set the guitar out with a loud final boom and finally ending with Terbangan letting out a Noble Roar to end the song.

Zuke would then open his eyes and let out a smile, warm with the afterglow of the stage. He dropped his cane, letting it resound on the ground. Then he took out his hands to hold each of his Pokemon's...ending the show and act.

Edited 2021-09-24 16:16 (UTC)

Trainer(s): Steve Palchuk?
Pokemon: Birthday Bessie (Miltank), All The Bessies (Ditto)
Move: Transform, Charm, Ice Beam, Helping Hand, Heart Stamp, Strength, Milk Drink

Costume: Birthday Bessie is wearing a gold and white-jewelled encrusted tiara, Tauros skull inspired earrings, and a black figure skating dress adorned with gold and silver patterning. Her hooves appear to be extra well-polished today, and are coated in a thin layer of silver glitter.

All The Bessies, meanwhile, is not wearing anything. Technically. Thanks to Transform, they appear to be wearing a replica of Birthday Bessie's costume and make up, with the silver and gold accents reversed. It's a perfect replica. Almost perfect anyway. Despite their best efforts, there's definitely something unnatural about the way the fabric moves. It's probably very disconcerting if you look too closely unless you can figure out what's wrong.

Act:

Birthday Bessie starts out on the stage alone, standing forlornly off to one side as the music starts, quiet and mournful to signify her loneliness. All The Bessies is obscured on the opposite side, the lighting and their small size allowing them to hide until there's a discordant clash of cymbals, and another Miltank appears from ATB's hiding spot as they use Transform.

There's a pause in the music as the two Miltank stare at each other with apparent shock. The song starts to pick up again, more cheerful this time as the two Miltank simultaneously use Charm. They stare across the stage, enamoured with each other, before using Ice Beam to coat the entire stage in a layer of ice, save one spot in the middle. The two glide towards each other, using their hooves as skates. They seem slightly wobbly, though someone paying close attention to ATB may notice their wobble seems intentional, as though to keep symmetry rather than down to lack of skill. As they come to the center, in front of the iceless patch, they reach forward with Helping Hand, spinning together as they stare into each other's eyes before finally stepping off the ice.

The music has sped up during the time the pair spent spinning, but despite their dance on the ice seeming to be over it only picks up as they release a flurry of Heart Stamps into the air as if they were fireworks. Their hooves remain clasped together during this display, and even as the music slows once more and they skate off to the back of the stage, briefly hiding them in the darkness.

This short disappearance is so they can use Strength to push a table that had been left there earlier across the ice and neatly into the patch they'd left clear. As the music tapers, the two Miltank use Milk Drink, trading glasses with each other and smiling happily as they song ends and the stage plunges into darkness.

Anyone who knows Steve may well question his involvement in this production, and they'd be right to. It turns out All The Bessies has quite the passion for performing, and wormed their way into taking over planning pretty quickly. He'd probably be more put out, but guess who got to play the cymbals? Worth it, honestly.

Trainer(s): Yuzu Hiiragi
Pokemon: "Aria" (Sylveon), "Opera" (Primarina)
Move: Misty Terrain, Sparkling Aria, Copycat, Icy Wind, Dazzling Gleam, Swift

Costume: Aria is dressed very similarly to a certain Sylveon in the anime with the intent of giving Aria a floral theme with her costume. albeit with blue instead of green, and Yuzu dressed up similarly to Sylveon's natural colors. Opera, meanwhile, is dressed up in a number of different kinds of seashells and pearls as jewelry, adding to what she already has, as well as the natural mermaid aesthetic. Finally, on top of that, a frilly dress for Opera's upper half with sleeves that resemble fins and droop down similarly to traditional Kimonos. She's looking for Aria to be very pink while Opera does the same but for blue instead. Her two favorite colors, what can she say?

Act: Right away, Yuzu will have Aria jump off of her arm to the front of the stage, using Misty Terrain upon touching down while Opera uses Icy Wind to kick up the mist from the Misty Terrain to swirl around the venue, quickly spreading out the ethereal atmosphere set by the move. After that, Opera will use Sparkling Aria and start to sing, because what's more romantic than song? It's the first and most prominent thing in Yuzu's mind, at least.

Still, it's a show with two Pokemon in it, and so Aria will then use Copycat to use Sparkling Aria alongside Opera, making for a duet that quite literally fills the area with sparkling bubbles. After the very romantic duet filled with Opera turning this venue into a literal opera, and Aria running around the stage, jumping around and firing off Swift to add shooting stars to the area around the stage, it'll end with Aria jumping toward Opera, who bends down so that Aria can be launched up into the air, where she'll use Dazzling Gleam in midair to cause all of the accumulated bubbles and shooting stars around the venue to burst into beautiful sparkles like little mini fireworks. Aria will, of course, do a flip then before landing back down on Opera's head, both of them striking a pose with Aria using her feelers to make a heart shape above them.

It's an aesthetically pleasing performance with the highlight being the harmony between Aria and Opera being what Yuzu hopes they were able to bring out

Trainer(s): Dimitri Alexandre Blaiddyd
Pokemon: Hob, the Raticate, and Cofgodas, also the Raticate, i do not know what you expected here
Move: Ice Beam, Super Fang, Tackle, Tail Whip, Quick Attack, Thunderwave, Scary Face, Pursuit, Swords Dance

Costume: Dimitri is wearing... his actual armor again, complete with giant fur cloak - the tragedy of pink paint being splashed on it is almost hard to see if you aren't close to it, thanks to a year passing and the initial aggressive washing! He's not wearing this to stand out, it's just what he feels is fitting.

Hob and Cofgodas are a little more involved... and also matching. Both of them are actually wearing masks today over their little rat faces, harking back to their Rattata days in that pretty purple and gold. Attached are similarly purple little robes made just for their rat bodies, just loose enough to slip out of them! Although they look a little bulky.... and that's because there are Secrets hidden under those purple rat robes.

Act: One can actually see Dimitri and his rats a little bit before their act, crouched down near the stage with the two stars of the show together while he gently and quietly gives them a peptalk. Surrounding them are all of his other rats, with Gremlin the Rattata giving an especially passionate speech while waving his hands around. Jackie Mary Ann the Alolan Rattata is equally excited. When the gang finally gets up to let the performers at it, Gremlin races off to the sound systems.

Should a rat be in charge of the music? How about you just sit down, okay. Not everyone can be Jaskier or Zuke.

With a playful and happy tune starting up, Hob and a slightly nervous Cofgodas get to work as they hop onto the stage with Dimitri sticking to the background. Immediately, Cofgodas lifts her head up and begins to shoot out an Ice Beam up into the air. Incredibly close to her girlfriend's mouth, Hob also gets to work with some rapid fast Super Fangs that crunch into the ice before it has a chance to get too hard, using her cooking contest experience to good use! Like this, they manage to set the scene so that a layer of almost-snow is upon the stage, along with a few little piles of it scattered here and there depending on how it fell.

If you don't know how to use Blizzard, hand-made is fine. Right?

With the scene set, the two immediately begin to romp around the stage - chasing after each other with Quick Attacks that occasionally have them go sliding (once almost off the stage entirely), bumping into each other with gentle Tackles, and lightly bopping their long tails together with little Tail Whips. It's a scene of play that utilizes the moves most baby Rattata know and use the most, with the two seeming rather happy together the entire while.

But then things - and the music - change. Right in the middle of the stage, Cofgodas gives a loud and alarmed squeak, and braces herself with all four feet against the floor. She starts to shake, like a dog trying to get something off its fur, and Hob starts to approach again from where her playing had gotten her a bit nearer to the edge of the stage. But before she can get too close... Cofgodas shakes even harder, and out bursts a Thunderwave.

As the light fades, leaving Hob literally paralyzed in spot, it's revealed that Cofgodas has shed her Rattata mask and the purple robe at the same time. She's now in her full Raticate form, nothing hidden, and wearing only a blue cape of some sort. (It has a band that winds around Hob's middle so that it doesn't go flapping around everywhere, easy to miss with how much Fluff she is composed of.)

It's clearly symbolic of evolution... or some great change similar to it. Yet where some Pokemon would be elated, Cofgodas's ears just pin back against her head as she sees the paralyzed state her partner is in, and she covers her face with her rat hands in clear despair. (Or maybe she's just taking a breather so that she doesn't have to look at the audience, you don't know.)

Poor Hob can't do anything either, bits of electricity crackling along her fur and the purple robe as she's stuck in place. HOB is paralyzed! She can't move! All she can do is squeak out towards Cofgodas in concerned alarm.

But it doesn't appear to reach Cofgodas. Instead, Cofgodas gets quite upset, and pulls her little ratty hands away from her face to unleash a fearsome Scary Face towards her partner, before she turns tail, and rushes off to the little piles of snow they've made with all their prior playing about. Hob is left to stare after her, still squeaking.... and determined to not let that be the end of it.

HOB gathered all her energy to break through the paralysis, so that COFGODAS wouldn't worry!

With a determined little shake of her own fur, Hob takes off! This time, when she uses Quick Attack, it's not just for play, but to chase after her partner! Yet two can play at that game, because Cofgodas uses Quick Attack as well, evading Hob as the two of them race around the stage. It's an intense chase, one that doesn't seem as though it will ever end as it is.

Skidding to a stop in the middle of the stage when Cofgodas evades her once again to go hide behind another small pile of snow, Hob huffs. Yet this won't stop here. Instead, there's a moment of serenity as she raises her little snout to the sky and closes her eyes. Focus Energy draws a serene blue glow over her purple-clad body, a result of her gathering all her strength before she shoots off again - shedding her own mask and purple robe as she goes!

She won't give up in her Pursuit!

And this time, she makes it! She cuts her partner off at the head - no longer in purple, but instead with yellow and teal plaid ribbons braided into her fur and large bows of similar mismatched colors at her ears. And before Cofgodas can dart away again...

Hob reaches out with her little rat hands to take her by the face, and presses their foreheads together, and she doesn't let go.

The size difference between Cofgodas and Hob is pretty noticeable - Cofgodas has at least a solid foot on her partner - and yet that doesn't stop the larger rat from immediately giving in. She tucks her little face down against Hob, hiding herself away, and sniffling. All Hob does is curl around her, squeaking out reassurances... and, as they stay together like that, their tails sway around with another Tail Whip, entwining together that way.

There in the center of the stage, the two Raticate stay like that for a moment, before, as the music changes once again into a serene ballroom melody, they straighten up to stand on their hind legs. It takes a little bit of maneuvering, as Raticate were not made for the waltz exactly, but, soon enough, their front hands have joined together. Cofgodas keeps her face tucked away against Hob's fur, and, together like that...

The two of them begin to gently sway and shuffle about the center of the stage, accompanied by the gentle glow of ephemeral and blue swords which slowly materialize about them. Their Swords Dance is not a particularly conventional sort, but it is beautiful in its own way - the intimate way the Raticate keep a hold of one another, the soft twirls of the swords that are more artful than anything else.

While their entry might have been a bit of a play, one thing should be clear: there is nothing staged about how deeply the two Raticate love one another, as they dance quietly amongst the melting snow upon which their swords dance reflects.

....At some point, Hob even starts to boggle, which might kind of ruin the slow and romantic effect to some people - you know, those without taste - but listen.

The two Raticate dance and boggle all the way until the song finishes, upon which Dimitri gets up onto the stage, leans down, and hauls both of them into his arms. He gives a polite thanks to the audience and the judges for their time, and then leaves.

Both ratsbians seem happy curled up in his arms like this.

Trainer(s): Carly Nagisa + Jolyne Cujoh aka your married criminals
Pokemon: Kushi (Joltik, Carly's), Stone Free (Levanny, Jolyne's)
Move: Kushi; Sucker Punch, Electro Ball, Bug Buzz, Discharge, Signal Beam, Agility, Electroweb

Stone Free; Sunny Day, Razor Leaf, Protect, Leaf Storm, String Shot

Costume: Kushi, being a tiny tiny little thing, is mostly just wearing some sort of belt that has a number of fanning, flaring prongs standing up off her, like some sort of strange peacock train flared up.

Stone Free wears this

Act: The show is, ultimately, simple.

...To start.

The lights come on, and there is Stone Free- garbed, costumed, beautiful- she was clearly dressed by her trainer, but after an intervention on said trainer's wife's part. She stands. Calm. Collected-

The joltik streaks in from the side through the power of Sucker Punch and Electro Ball, appearing briefly as nothing but an electric streak across the stage that stops at her side. Buzzing with Bug Buzz combined with Discharge- the electric sparks radiating across her fanned display- she is clearly putting on a show for Stone Free.

She is...................

Not interested.

Kushi swaps to the other side- the same blur of sparks, display repeating. Again. Again. Please! Respond!

Stone Free finally has enough however- but rather than responding to the affections, takes off into the air- Sunny Day illuminating the stage, Razor Leaf whirling into the air with her as she glides across it and lands.

Kushi will not be out done.

Now, she spreads Signal Beam across her fan- zipping around Stone Free, Agility spurring her on. Stone Free in turn takes to the air yet higher, now bringing a Leaf Storm into her dance, the greenery spreading with the light of the sun-

Kushi follows on Electroweb strings-

Stone Free scatters the lights across shards from Protect.

Back, and forth- a lightshow of the various moves, until the stage is nothing but a flurry of sunlight, dazzling sparkles, and greenery!!

And slowly....slowly, as it fades...?

...

Kushi and Leavanny lay on their backs, clearly exhausted.

Somehow, in the center of the stage, amid the fallen webbing threads and leaves at the focus of everyone's attentions....

Is

One

Egg

~~....We don't know how it got there!~~

(...Technically, there was some clever String Shot maneuvering involved, pulling the egg in from back stage during the light show. The pokemon are after all...both female)

Trainer(s): Ochako Uraraka
Pokemon: "Parfait" (Clefable), "Anseris" (Vulpix)
Move: Rest, Snore, Sing, Sweet Kiss

Costume: Literally just this outfit.

Act: The act opens with a bout of darkness, a spotlight shimmering on a small nest tucked away from the world. Sounds of harsh rain and booming thunder play from speakers set up to add to the ambiance of the performance, and the tiny little ball of fur that is Anseris the Vulpix shivers and cries against the larger form of Parfait the Clefable, pawing at her insistently and trying hard to hide away as ear peal of thunder makes the poor thing jump, shake, and cry a little louder.

That is, until Parfait finally sits up and scoops the crying kit into her gentle arms, cradling and rocking the little thing tenderly. She allows the Vulpix to cry just a moment or two longer before she begins to Sing softly but with a strong and resolute voice - a lullaby to chase the tears of the little Vulpix away, and remind him that she is there. Always. And to seal that little unspoken promise, the Clefable will plant a Sweet Kiss right atop the Vulpix's head, and lay him down to Rest, where after a bit of stroking to his back and head, the tiny kit will begin to lightly Snore.

The moment is tender, warm...and extremely loving. Ochako's no stranger to love, having a crush on a certain someone herself, but she thought that love didn't have to solely be something romantic. Love comes in many forms, after all...and there's something inherently special about the love of a parent consoling its crying child. It's something Ochako is all too familiar with, given the love she has for her parents back home, so this performance is a bit special to her, as well as it is a little personal, too.

Love is vast, and it can take on many shapes and forms. For one to love and be loved, they need not be in love. It can be as simple as the embrace of another, who cherishes them deeply. And would chase away their tears like the falling rains, and hush their tumultuous cries like the thunder of Raikou itself. Love can be but a lullaby for a stormy night. ♥

Trainer(s): Robert E. O. Speedwagon and Erina Joestar
Pokemon: "Candalera" (Salazzle), "Peda" (Pachirisu)
Move: Candalera: Fire lash, smog, sweet scent, torment, ember
Peda: Run away, sweet kiss, spark

Costume: Candalera is wearing a red dress that seems far more suited for a ballroom dance competition while Peda is keeping it classy with a traditional suit.

Act: The scene starts out with Peda in a rather nice suit coming towards a preening red-clad Candalera with a flower in hand. In a big to win over her affection such as he feels for her. It takes a moment or two for Candalera to even notice him, giving him and the flower a once over before turning her nose up at him and aiming a fire lash to try and hit him. Peda does not take this easily and is luckily quick enough to get out of the way using run away, which he does leave.

Though this does not deter him! He returns once again with flower once again in hand for his love! Candalera is clearly confused that he's returned after she made it very clear that she did not accept or return said affection. In an attempt to get him to leave for good she tris using smog instead, though she is the one to leave in the smoke instead of him.

Some time seems to have passed and instead of the scene of the preening Candalera, she's instead seeming to relax in some sort "grassy" area. Peda returns into the scene with a bouquet of flowers instead to show that he is determined and that he's very serious about his affections towards her! Candalera still seems not too interested in this, though seems to be less violent this time, using sweet scene to lure him closer before turning around and using torment to test his mettle.

This culminates in him staying where he is, taking the torment and nervously offering her the flowers once again. Candalera honestly seems unsure about this whole thing, watching him with a careful eye before gingerly taking the bouquet in her claws. In turn Peda offers his ~~adorable~~ little paw towards her, in which she takes as she moves to stand properly. Candalera's posture visibly changes from previously, from standoffish and guarded to far more relaxed.

From there begins the sound of a traditional Viennese waltz song as the two begin in said waltz, very particular in their movements. Peda uses spark to make there be sparkles as they move, while there are standing candles just out of their way, but clearly on the stage, which Candalera uses strategic uses of ember when facing each of the directions to light.

Once the waltz comes to an end, they both stand there before Candalera takes the initiative to pick up the much smaller Peda into her arms and walk off the stage.

Trainer(s): Kazuki Hihara
Pokemon: Tsukimori the Absol and Kahoko the Vulpix
Move: Dark Pulse, Ember, Pursuit, Will-O-Wisp, Swords Dance, Psych Up, Flame Charge

Costume: Kahoko is wearing a red silk ribbon around her neck, and Tsukimori is wearing a black cravat with a gold pin. Kazuki decided to go simple this time! He is conspicuously absent from the performance.

Act: The act opens on a silent stage, Tsukimori sitting underneath a single spotlight. The Pokemon has a stoic, unfaltering expression. He takes one step forward, and a cello plays a long, murmuring note. He bows his head, uses Dark Pulse, and the stage is covered in thick, inky blackness.

A flute pitter-patters tiny, playful notes as Ember pawprints light up on the surface of the stage. The Absol's face is illuminated as he leans down to inspect each one in turn in Pursuit, his soulful cello repeating the same notes the flute played in a minor key.

A Will-O-Wisp comes to life, and Tsukimori gives chase. As he catches up to one, another appears in the distance. They lead him around in winding patterns, and as he weaves around them, the flute and cello begin a melody in earnest, charming in the way it starts and falters as the two instruments try to find harmony together.

The little flames lead Tsukimori up the crest of a small hill, where they now gather and form a halo of light around a Kanto Vulpix. It's eyes are dewy and gleaming in the firelight, and its tails undulate playfully. The flute beckons with a trilling leap up another octave, inviting the cello to follow its arpeggio.

Both the cello and Absol oblige. Tsukimori begins an elegant Swords Dance around Kahoko, showing off his strength and grace, while the cello played with a light hand and impressive range. The wisps of flame followed him, so his form would not be obscured by the darkness of the stage.

His dance comes to an end with a deep bow before the Vulpix, who bows in return. There is a shimmer of psychic energy that some may recognize as Psych Up. This move allows Kahoko to draw upon the strength of the Swords Dance as her own.

With that boost of power, she is able to perform an incredible Flame Charge that lights up the entire stage in fiery brilliance as she joyfully dashes, Tsukimori close at her heels. The music erupts into a fully orchestrated crescendo as golden light glitters all around them, completely dispelling the darkness.

As the two slow, the music gently fades. They circle around each other with thoughtful steps, their eyes locked. They lean in to touch their foreheads together as the curtains close with the last murmuring echoes of the flute and cello dissipate into a memory.

Trainer(s): Shinobu Tsukuyomi
Pokemon: "Tenko" (Alolan Vulpix), "Zenko" (Vulpix)
Move: Hail, Mist, Blizzard, Dark Pulse, Rain Dance, Dig, Sunny Day, Triple Axel

Costume: Costumes are relatively minimal - simple breakaway ribbon collars in pale purple (Tenko) and pale pink (Zenko), and a bit of pokemon-safe glitter sprinkled strategically on their fur. There are also ribbons on their heads and around their tails, in the same colors as their collars; these are also designed to be breakaway, for... reasons. The ribbons are surprisingly drab and cheap-looking for an event like this.

Act: Shinobu would like to let it be known that this is Not His Fault; Tenko and Zenko came up with this atrocity entirely on their own and refused to let him see what they were doing.

(In retrospect, letting the Terror Twins anywhere near this contest was probably his first mistake.)

The stage opens with the two Vulpix frolicking in what looks like an idyllic meadow (or as close to it as one can get for a performance on a stage that other people are expected to be using soon). The lighting suggests that it's a sunny day; the sounds of birds chirping and other sounds one might hear in nature can be heard through the sound system. Not that the two Vulpix seem to be taking any heed - their only concern is each other and the games they're playing. Sure, they're only tiny fox pokemon in a big world, but they've got each other and that's all they need. Who cares that they don't have fancy ribbons or other riches?

But what's this? Tenko has discovered a strange rock - an Ice Stone. And it gives the little fox pause. After all, they are only tiny fox pokemon in a big world, and there are all sorts of big, nasty threats out there. But if she uses this, she could be a big, nasty threat, just like she and Zenko have always wanted to be!

That thought makes her waver for a bit. What about Zenko? She can't share an Ice Stone, and even if she could, Zenko's a Fire pokemon; she wouldn't benefit. And they've always shared everything; they never go anywhere or do anything without the other. She watches Zenko frolicking among the (not very realistic) Butterfree and Mothim made of paper in the meadow for a moment, then turns back to the Ice Stone. She could protect Zenko like this, at least, and maybe they can find a Fire Stone for her later. And then Zenko could catch up!

She takes the Ice Stone.

She feels herself growing larger, stronger, as the Stone infuses her with its power. The ribbons break away and disintegrate in the force of her evolution. Zenko looks up, startled, as the "sky" darkens and Hail begins to fall, but Tenko doesn't notice, too enraptured by her own power. She's the big, nasty threat in the meadow now, and she's reveling in it. Mist covers the meadow; the paper Butterfree and Mothim fall to Blizzard and a Pulse of Darkness, respectively. It's wonderful!

But...

She spots Zenko a short distance away from her. The Vulpix is staring at her, looking utterly hurt and betrayed. Tenko's heart falls. Oh... oh, no. She didn't want this. She wanted to protect Zenko, not make her feel like less. Zenko turns away from her now, ears and tail drooping, and Tenko's own magnificent tails follow suit. This wasn't what she wanted!

The Hail gives way to Rain as she Digs frantically in the "earth," looking for something, anything, she can find to make things better, to fix this. But Zenko just keeps walking - a small, discouraged figure in the pouring rain. Zenko's never cared as much about being a big, nasty threat as Tenko has; sure, she wants that, but really, she just wants to be with Tenko. But now Tenko's gone somewhere where she can't follow, and Zenko is alone.

But what's this?

Tenko is standing before her now, her longer legs enabling her to catch up with Zenko easily. And she's holding something in her mouth, an object she triumphantly drops at Zenko's feet once she's got the Vulpix's attention.

A Fire Stone.

Zenko's eyes widen. She stares up at Tenko. Tenko's eyes are gentle, hopeful.

Zenko takes the Fire Stone.

She's ecstatic as she feels the power flow through her, turning her into a Ninetales just like Tenko (okay, not just like Tenko, but it's the principle of the thing). Rain gives way to sunlight as Zenko can't help casting a delighted Sunny Day. Fortunately for the meadow, she's not as keen on practicing her moves; instead, a relieved Tenko sweeps her up in a Triple Axel as the two Vulpix - no, Ninetales - scamper off to plot all kinds of Acts of Mayhem. After all, they're big, scary threats now.

(And thus the two little fox pokemon lived happily ever after, in their mutual romance with Power.)

Edited 2021-09-27 03:51 (UTC)

While the votes are being counted, everybody is given the run of the garden. And there is certainly enough good food and champagne (or sparkling juice for the younger contestants) to keep everybody entertained during this time.

Eventually, though, it's time! The votes have come in, have been tallied, checked, and re-checked. The envelopes containing the winners' names are handed to Riegfried and Soy by their Incineroar, who is also carrying a box of ribbons -- one bronze, one silver and one gold.

---

First of all, as a thank you to every performer who put their heart and soul into this contest and who brightened our day with their creativity, we'd like to reward everybody who entered with a set of 5 Love Balls. Hopefully, you'll find a way to use them well.

But, lets not dally any longer. We know you are as eager as us to know who won and so without further ado --

★★★

In third place, reminding us all of a very important life's lesson: RAINER MICHELLE!

For both her lovely performance and important reminder, we want to reward Rainer not only with a set of 10 Love Balls and a bronze ribbon, but we also would like to offer her a Hot Air Balloon ride for two! Mind you, it might get a little chilly up there these days, so best be sure to bring someone along to keep you warm.

★★★

Coming in second, with his tail of two rats in love: DIMITRI ALEXANDRE BLAIDDYD!

For his delightful performance, we want to reward Dimitri not just with a set of 10 Love Balls and a silver ribbon, but also with an all expenses paid Dinner and Theatre show in Ecruteak City for two. We can only hope the show you choose to see will be as entertaining and memorable as your performance was today.

★★★

And finally, we'd like you to put your hands together for our winner of the evening: CLAUDE VON RIEGAN!

For his incredible performance of both passion and loss, we'd like to reward him with this contest' golden ribbon, a set of 10 Love Balls, in addition to a week-long, all-expenses-paid trip to a private cabin in the mountains of Blackthorn City for him and one companion. With the first signs of snowfall edging their way towards the region, why not take a well-deserved break in front of a roaring fire with a cup of hot cocoa.

---

With those rewards handed out, there is one final spotlight we like to shine tonight.

As performers, none of us are strangers to that strange force that is known as creativity. A fickle thing, sometimes it might strike us in the middle of the night, come to us as a deluge only to slow to a trickle soon after. It's a force every performer must learn to weave and command.

There are many forms of creativity, and tonight we'd like to highlight who we believe was able to use the moves of their pokemon in the most creative manner. We'd like to invite you all to put your hands together for RAINER MICHELLE for her creative use for the move Transform.

As a reward, we'd like to present her with this multi-use TM Natural Gift in the hopes it'll be able to bolster her to even higher creative heights!

Edited 2021-10-05 23:50 (UTC)

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