Prom 2023 - Back to the Falls!

[indigo_league]

What’s this? There’s glitter in the air. What’s this? There’s dresses everywhere.

Oh right. It’s Prom time.



From the afternoon on, on Friday the 7th of April, your characters will all be arriving at Tohjo Falls via the transport arranged for by Lance. He did end up borrowing a few of those Corviknights from the JKBA, but there are also several of you who will find themselves flown to the Falls by one of Lance’s Dragonites or Charizards. Please give them a poffin if you are able, they are all very good boys and girls.


Your characters will be set down on a tiled driveway (more like flyway, Ha) in front of an impressive-looking villa. Those who have been here before might note that the villa has gotten a bit of a renovation and an update. Turns out that when Team Rocket kidnaps you and keeps you captive in your own home for several weeks while wrecking the house and digging Arceus knows how many basements beneath the house, you might be entitled to some compensation.

And from the looks of things, Lance and co used that compensation to turn their little vacation home back into something where they can relax in peace.

After you arrive, you’ll be greeted by Lance or one of the other Elite Four members, who will give you a quick run-down. You are free to explore the house and surrounding area at your leisure. Please respect their privacy and do not go into any of the locked rooms. You’ll find your accommodations behind the house, so feel free to head there and unpack. Oh, and, there will be a little announcement later, so if you could be in the dining room for that, that’d be stellar.

Well, off you go!




WELCOME (BACK) TO THE FALLS

THE SIGHTS The Villa As mentioned by Lance and Co, parts of the villa are off-limits to guests. Not to worry, there is nothing nefarious hiding there this time. It's just that those rooms are the Elite Four's private quarters, and they'd rather not have people go through their underwear drawers! Other areas that are off-limits include the kitchen, but this is just for practical reasons; wouldn't want to get in the way of the cooks preparing lunch and dinner. Still, even with these off-limits areas, there is still plenty to see. Library On the upper floor, there is a decently sized Library for anyone who needs a bit of peace and quiet. The books within are part of the Elite Four's personal book collections. There are a lot of books related to each members' preferred Pokemon type, as well as a very sizeable collection of books on Pokemon Battling, strategies and counter-strategies, in addition to a good number of autobiographies from famous (former) gym leaders and Elite Four members. Their books aren't all business though! There is also plenty of fiction available, as well as non-fiction related to the Elite Four's personal hobbies. The books are not marked, so it's hard to tell which book belongs to which E4 member, so have fun trying to figure out who added the books on glassblowing to the collection, and to who the knitting books belong to. Gallery Also on the top floor is a gallery that contains the many prizes each Elite Four member has won over the years, as well as some interesting artefacts they've found during their lives. Ever wanted to see Lance's first badges? Or perhaps Bruno's weightlifting trophies? And wow, looks like Will participated in some contests back in the day! Okay, those things probably aren't worth hours of visiting, but there is also a collection of photos of various legendary pokemon, as well as some items related to them, such as a feather that is said to have belonged to Ho-oh, a scale that was left behind after Groudon and Kougre fought and could it be true? One of Hoopa's hoops itself? Fascinating! Dining Room Obviously where characters can dine. Unfortunately, the dining room itself is not big enough to fit all characters at once, so they've also set up some tables outside among the tents, and people are asked to check back if there is no space. When not in use to have dinner in, the room is left open and available to anyone who'd like to use it. Ball Room Now that prom night is finally here, your characters may enter in what was previously forbidden. Yes, beyond these doors lay a mysterious land of, uh... tables and a dance floor. Listen, there is only so many ways you can describe a ballroom, okay! There is a central floor where people may dance if they so desire, and around that spot, plenty of tables and chairs have been set up for you to rest your tired dancing feet at. Though there is no big dinner served at prom, there are staff flitting around with refreshments and canapes and, fitting the style of the villa, tapas. There are, of course, also flutes of champagne and wine and other adult drinks. Note the emphasise on adult, there. Don't expect to con these waiters into giving you something if you are underaged. (instead, try and find a trusted, untrustworthy adult friend. It's okay. We won't tell your mom. Pool Outside, of course, is the pool. This hasn't changed that much from previous visits here. It's... well... it's a pool! What more can we say? It's a good place to have some fun and play around, but if you are more into relaxation or perhaps even catching some rays, there's also plenty of space around the pool with plenty of deck chairs available to you. It is still only April, so to make sure nobody catches pneumonia in the pool, the water has been heated. Please do not heat the water further. You know what we are talking about! The Accomodations Those who have visited before may remember that the Villa doesn't exactly have enough bedrooms to house all promgoers. In fact, there have been years where you just kipped on the floor in the garage-like area. Maybe Lance is trying to match the standards set by previous organisers. Maybe there was a little extra money left over after the renovations to plurge, but this year, you won't be expected to sleep on the floor in a sleeping bag! Instead, behind the Villa, beyond the pool area, there is a field of tents. And these aren't your basic little travelling tents. These tents look pretty luxurious. True, you will still be sharing them with a few others, but at least you'll be sleeping in something like a regular bed. There are also some chairs and benches dotted around the area, where you can sit and relax, as well as a few open tents that have tables and benches inside of them where one could eat breakfast or dinner. (And, of course, there are tents available too where you can take care of the, ah, less glamourous needs of the human body. No need to bring your own TP either, it will be provided!) The tents house four people each. If you, for whatever reason, want to cram more people inside, Lance will be a little startled but will allow it. If you try to grab a tent all to yourself, Lance will give you a very disappointed look. The Surroundings If your character isn't the type to hang out for hours by the pool or spend their entire Saturday already getting ready for prom, why not go exploring a bit? The area around Tohjo Falls is normally off-limits to people, after all. This might be your only chance to see it. (unless we come back again here next year) While exploring, your character has the option of trekking into the forests behind the villa or descending into the cave that houses the waterfalls this area has been named for. Wild pokemon can be found in each area, though please be careful! As few people visit this location, the pokemon here are very unused to humans. Please always bring a strong pokemon with you when you go exploring! And who knows, if you keep an eye out, you might run into an unfamiliar pokemon or two... Forest (lvl 20-45) Charjabug, Corvisquire, Venipede, Sizzlipede, Fletchinder, Greedent*, Whirlipede*, Nincada*, Flapple**, Appletun**, Talonflame**, Ninjask**, Shiinotic**, Sprigatito**, Centiskorch***, Vikavolt***, Corviknight***, Trevenant***, Scolipede*** Cave (lvl 20-45) Sandshrew, Woobat, Rolycoly, Noibat, Roggenrola, Aron*, Glimmet*, Sandslash*, Rhyhorn*, Carkol*, Noivern**, Swoobat**, Boldore**, Fuecoco**, Lairon***, Rhydon***, Glimora*** Falls (lvl 20-45) (Fishing/Surfing) Qwilfish, Staryu, Arrokuda, Wishiwashi, Finneon*, Skrelp*, Lumineon*, Relicanth*, Starmie**, Overqwill**, Quaxly**, Seadra**, Gyrados***, Barraskewda***, Dragalge***, Kingdra***

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THE ANNOUNCEMENT


Once everybody has arrived and has been given some time to unpack, it's time for the announcement Lance has been teasing. What is this unique opportunity he mentioned? Will this have anything to do with prom itself? Has Lance conned us all into attending a Tupperware party?

In any case, you all gather in the dining room. The Elite Four is gathered at the front of the room, Lance taking the center stage. Will is standing next to him. For a moment Lance just glances out over the crowd, as if checking that everybody is here, before he clears his throat and begins.

"First of all, let me say that I am very happy to see you all here. It's been a few years since we last were able to greet you in our home, and here is to hoping things won't end as badly as last time.

But that is not what this announcement is about. Rather, there is going to be some changes within the Elite Four. Changes we'd like to make you a part of.

A few months ago, Will announced to us that he will be stepping down from his position as Elite Four member to--" Lance seems to pause for a moment, looking at Will, "--pursue opportunities elsewhere!

Of course, we cannot leave his spot unoccupied, so in the last few months, we've been hard at work vetting and narrowing down the choices for who will replace him. And finally, we've been able to narrow it down to just two remaining candidates. It's been a struggle, let me tell you! We've had so many qualified and incredible trainers who wanted to join us, but we believe we've found the best two.

And that is where you come in!

As I said, we have been able to narrow down the field to two final choices. And what I'd like to offer you this weekend, is an opportunity to take an active part in deciding who gets to be our newest member. You all, after all, have proven over the years that you not only care about pokemon, but you've also grown to care about this world, often helping us out when situations were dire. We believe you, as much as anyone, have a right to determine the future of this region.

In just a moment, I'd like to introduce you to our two final applicants. I can already assure you that they are both excellent trainers, and very skilled battlers, as well as individuals who we believe we can rely on in a bad situation. What we'd like if for you to cast the final vote on who takes over Will's position.

Throughout this weekend, they will make themselves available for questions. Please ask them anything you wish to know, and please also discuss the manner among yourself if you wish. Whichever person you choose, know that we already feel we could work and depend on either of them. At the end of this meeting, we'll distribute voting slips to everyone. These cannot be replaced, so please hold onto them, and once you've made your choice, please submit them to the vote box in front of the Ballroom before the start of the dance. Then, during the party on Sunday, we will reveal who will become our newest members.

Now, I've said quite enough, so let me introduce you to our two final applicants--"

The dining room doors open, and two figures stride in, walking to the front to join Lance and the other Elite Four members.




"Please welcome Bede from the Galar region and Malva from the Kalos Region"

---

Not sure what is going on? Why not check out our prom FAQ

Comments

The Surroundings

[lorentzforcego]

Running into another larger than average adult seems to be rare in this place so while heading outward of the tent area Monsoon spots Keldor. Dressed in a more casual pinstripe shirt with rolled up sleeves and suspenders, leather gloves, and his ever present sunglasses, he strolls up to the other man - and that's when he recognizes him from his post to the network a few weeks ago.

"Oh, hello! A pleasure meeting you in person. How has your Slowpoke been settling in?"

[behindblueskin]

They grow 'em big in Eternia, let me tell you...

"She is doing about as well as her kind can do."

You know. Loafing around whenever she's outside her ball. She's probably one of the only pokemon Keldor has that he can trust to not take off when let out.

Not that she's out just now. Nobody is, because we're still trying to decide where to go first in search of new things.

[lorentzforcego]

Indeed they do.

"Good, good. I'm glad to hear it."

That sounds like a good life honestly. Maybe not for Monsoon but for a Slowpoke, yes.

The albino folds his hands behind his back, "Are you looking to catch more pokémon while you're here? I was about to do that myself so we could partner up if you'd like."

[behindblueskin]

He could play for the NBA if he wasn't built like a linebacker who lifts in his spare time.

"I am. Access to this area is generally forbidden to anyone other than those with permission to reside here. I will not pass up this opportunity."

That, and Paldean pokemon. It might be a while yet before Kanto and Johto see an influx of these creatures, so Keldor's getting in while the getting's good.

[lorentzforcego]

Keldor will fit right in with Monsoon and his boss, the latter being did actually play football during college.

"Then perhaps we'll find less common species here if luck is on our side," Monsoon remarks, idly adjusting one of his rolled sleeves.

There's a pause before he adds: "Oh, I never introduced myself the last time we spoke. My apologies. The name's Lorentz."

[behindblueskin]

[Which reminds me that I still owe tags in that post... +_+]

"That is a much-preferred outcome."

It'd be nice to find something super-duper rare to boast about later on the network out here.

"I am Keldor."

Son of King Miro, supposed-to-be-king-of-Eternia-but-isn't-thanks-a-lot-for-not-standing-up-for-me-Randor, current exile, student of Hordak, leader of a rebellious band of misfits, and so on, but we'll save those parts for later, when we get to the traumatic portion of this show.

[lorentzforcego]

[No rush. I'm always up for backtagging!]

"Isn't it?" Monsoon will let Keldor catch the first rare one. If they happen to come across another he can snag for Rocket, all the better.

"It's a pleasure, Keldor." That's a lot of not-titles that he has no idea about. "Where shall we head to first?"

[behindblueskin]

"I am hoping that there are Fuecoco in these parts, as I think Shishito would appreciate having one of his own kind about, even if it is not evolved as he now is."

He rubs his chin thoughtfully. What habitat would a little fire gator choose to live in? By the water? Unlikely. Same perhaps for the forest, as these creatures would (wood?) be a fire hazard.

"Perhaps somewhere not near water or plantlife would be the place to begin."

[lorentzforcego]

"Of course. It's always good for your team to feel comfortable. The happier they are, the better they perform I've found. I'm sure you already know that though."

Monsoon hums as he looks around, debating which would be the idle spot. "Hmmm. I've heard there's a cave nearby. Perhaps we can check there?"

[behindblueskin]

"Group cohesion is always important."

So are a few little Fuecocos. People might still be clamouring for The New Thing by the time his 'mons like each other enough to make eggs, and Keldor won't mind supplying the need for it, even if he's a trainer not a breeder.

"That sounds plausible. So that is where we shall go."

No trees to burn down. No water to douse your flame.

[lorentzforcego]

"Indeed," he agrees. Luckily for Keldor, Monsoon technically can breed pokémon thanks to his job perks. Should he ever voice that, they could make an arrangement.

The albino leads the way, assuming the giant rocky formation in the distance is probably the cave. When they reach the entrance Monsoon enters cautiously, releasing his Croagunk just in case. Once they actually step inside, he props his sunglasses up to rest on the top of his head.

"I'm not super familiar with most pokémon, I'm afraid," He says, opening his pokégear to see what exactly a Fuecoco is.

Looks like a tiny pepper alligator someone threw a slice of cheese on to like those meme images. He raises an eyebrow and smirks to himself.

"I imagine these little fellows will probably stand out. We just need to be prepared in case they catch us off guard. Do you have enough pokeballs with you?"

[behindblueskin]

"I am adequately stocked."

What kind of trainer lets his supplies run low?

"But to find it, we will need to be able to see it."

It's a cave, and, while nothing like the extremely-well-named Dark Cave, there isn't much light to see with.

Good thing he has a flashlight to use to light the way with.

[lorentzforcego]

"Good, good."

Poor ones? Monsoon isn't sure.

He winces slightly as his eyes adjust to the sudden burst of light from the flashlight. "Hn. We'll need to move slowly, for obvious reasons." Such as it being incredibly dark and wanting to be safe so they don't alert a bunch of pokemon to come and rush them. "Keep your eye out as well, Hanzo."

The Croagunk croaks happily.

"These newer pokemon began appearing after the new year, yes?"

[behindblueskin]

Noticing the reaction, Keldor dims the flashlight a little. He might not know much about albinism, but he's not unfamiliar with light sensitivity—there are creatures and peoples in Eternia that prefer the dark.

"I ... apologise for that..."

Or ones who have have become accustomed to the eternal gloom of the Dark Hemisphere.

"Yes. Shishito was one of these new pokemon. He is, according to the dex, a 'Skeledirge' now."

[lorentzforcego]

"No need to apologize," he reassures the other man with a smile. It's not something he voices despite the sunglasses making it obvious there's something up with his eyes when he's wearing them all the damn time. Keldor might notice Monsoon's eyes are a reddish-grey if he can tell through the dim light.

He checks the gear to see what a Skeledirge is. "Interesting. That's the final form of Fuecoco? I see now why you want another for companionship. Like adopting a puppy when you have an older dog. The design reminds me of something though..."

Monsoon shakes his head. It's not important. "You have experience with them. How's there temperament?"

[behindblueskin]

"I should anyways. It is ... proper."

Damn he can be so formal at times. But, then, he is royalty, even if it's not acknowledged at home. So protocol will be observed.

"Especially when it did not occur to me that you might not like the light."

Sunglasses [or eyewear in general] isn't much of a thing in Eternia.

"I, huh?"

There goes his eloquence.

"Shishito was a very playful sort when he was still a Fuecoco. He has since become less so over time."

Shishito growing into his Serious nature.

[lorentzforcego]

"It is proper, I won't deny that. If you must issue an apology then, I will gladly accept it. Think nothing of the incident though, my friend" he waves a hand dismissively. It really isn't that big of a deal to him. He lived most of his life dealing with it until he became a cyborg.

Thankfully Keldor is among good company on the formal front. Monsoon has a particular way of speaking and generally doesn't resort to foul or unprofessional language.

"Ah, maturing with age..." He chuckles amusedly. "So our best bet is probably to find a group of them playing together if they're social creatures at least. Perhaps take the same approach as you did with your Slowpoke, asking if they would all like to join you. I imagine they won't want to be separated if they're playing."

[behindblueskin]

"As most do. One cannot stay young forever."

Well. Sounds like they have a game plan.

Which means it may be time to enlist some poke-help.

Not in the form of a Slowpoke—they'd be dragging it along—but in the form of a Swinub.

Not many 'mons with sniffers like Swinub.

"Swiiiin?"

"You have scented Shishito before. We are looking for a similar scent."

"Nuuuub?"

"Please."

"Nub. Nubnubnubnubnub...."

[lorentzforcego]

"A pity in some ways. With age comes wisdom..." a pause, "in most cases." There are some really idiotic adults out there. Technology hasn't helped in that matter.

Monsoon watches curiously as Keldor attempts to get his strange little hairy pig to cooperate with him. Of course he needs to be polite. The albino chuckles to himself over the interaction. He kneels down to be more of a height with his Croagunk.

"We're looking for a Fuecoco. This one." He shows the frog the pokedex entry. "Keep an eye out, alright?"

Hanzo nods and gives a thumbs up. Monsoon stands back up and turns towards the other man. "Ready when you are."

[behindblueskin]

And so it is that Kurobuta leads two men and a frog through the cave system looking for little red crocodiles.

The little furry pig is really putting her sniffer to good use, as she snuffles about looking for the smell that reminds her of one of her teammates.

All the while, she keeps chanting,

"...nubnubnubnubnub..."

While Keldor slowly follows behind, flashlight trained at a spot just ahead of the tiny oinker.

If she finds anything, there'll be a poffin for her. It's that or risk her demolishing Keldor's food stash again.

[lorentzforcego]

Hanzo trails behind them silently just in case anything happens to pop out as they're leaving. Monsoon watches Kurobuta curiously as she sniffs along the cave floor. Obviously they want to be quiet and thankfully her snuffling sounds fairly natural being a pokémon and all so when the albino speaks, it's still in a very low volume as to not alert any nearby creatures of their presence.

"Are you familiar with Truffle Pigs?"

[behindblueskin]

It might take a bit of coaxing to get Keldor to admit it, but if there's one thing he didn't mind much about being banished from Eternos, it's the peace and quiet.

Here in this cave, there's plenty of both to enjoy.

It's really nice.

But...

"'Truffle pigs'? No. No I have not heard of such a creature."