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***

---

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"

---

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Comments

[heartofalioness]

[Okay, slightly better. Allura just hangs on the side of the pool, idly kicking her legs. At least she's looking Marik and his Pokemon in the eye, giggling at the story about Oba, even if the smiles only reach their eyes with the Pokemon.]

No, different. Last year, Rigfried and Soy arranged for dirigibles to take us to a remote island.

[thetombkeeper]

[His team are his saving grace sometimes. If he didn't have Chenzira to smooth things over and act the part of Odion, Usi to show that he's even more of a menace than Marik, or Oba just being baby, he often wonders where he would be in most people's standings.]

Huh... I wonder if it's because they just held the contest that they decided to let the Elite Four cover it this year then. Worked out timing wise with Will wanting to step down.

[He scoops up Oba and places him on his lap. Chen moves off the chair to sit next to Allura and dip his tail into the water. His mask is safe back at the tent so he doesn't need to worry about the chlorine damaging it.]

So... ah... What all do you and Keith have planned for today?

[heartofalioness]

Or the other way around, if the Elite Four requested it for this purpose.

[As for plans...]

I've been interested in the library, and the wilderness surrounding the estate looks fascinating as well, so we might explore that.

[Plus or minus a private date night before things go to Poke-hell, but no need to tell Marik that yet.]

[thetombkeeper]

That would make sense.

[Marik looks off into the distance.]

I've been curious about those myself. Kaiba said the library was frustrating though. Nothing has titles on it.

Hm. Think there's more of those newly discovered pokémon here...?

[The less he knows, the better in this case.]

[heartofalioness]

Really? Well, that's baffling. What if two books have similar covers?

[Does Lance have a Dewgong decimal system or something?]

And possibly. [A faint smile.] And even if not, it's supposed to be a natural wonder that's usually inaccessible to the public. It'd be a shame to miss the opportunity.

[thetombkeeper]

That's what I was thinking. I don't know who ever thought that was a good idea...

[Even the books in the tomb's library had titles on them.]

I'll have to go looking around then. M-maybe take Shy for a nice walk during sunset or something...

[Chen nods in approval.]

Keith and I have the tent all set up for us, by the way. It opened up a good amount of space for our pokemon if they want to be out of their pokeballs.

[heartofalioness]

Good, thank you both.

[She thinks a bit on a new topic that isn't... completely and utterly awkward.]

... What are your thoughts on the Elite Four election.

[thetombkeeper]

Of course!

[Marik blinks, taking a moment to think on her question.]

It's hard to... really feel anything for either candidate since they're from regions we've never dealt with, you know? From their Q&A though... I'm leaning towards Malva. It would be neat to have a fairy-type representative but Bede's so...

[He wrinkles his nose. Pot calling the kettle black here not that he realizes it.]

Brattish. It's really off putting.

[heartofalioness]

[She's just... going to give him a Look.]

Perhaps... but he also seemed to acknowledge his past mistakes, and how hard he's worked to get where he is. [Which she doesn't MEAN as a jab to Marik (for once), just a statement of fact.] Not to mention he seems as knowledgeable as Malva in battle strategy, as well as speaking of a strong bond with his Pokemon. Malva is... much harder to read. Not to mention the Indigo League already has a Fire specialist, I believe.

[thetombkeeper]

[The jab is felt regardless and Marik decides it's best to pick his words wisely. Just makes him dislike Bede more. Oops. What a petty brat.]

Maybe. I don't know... He's worked hard but it does seem like who he knows helped get him to where he is as well, rather than just starting from the bottom. There's nothing wrong with that, obviously, but it kind of comes off like he takes that for granted.

[Just admit it, Marik. You don't like him because he reminds you of yourself in a way.]

I'd rather see him as an available gym trainer than in the Elite Four.

[Awkward pause.]

T-That's just my opinion. Not that it really matters since I won't be taking on the gym challenge anytime soon...

[heartofalioness]

[Yeah no, the projection is visible from a mile away, but again, Allura's trying to be at least baseline cordial.]

At that age, having people to support you is important. There's only so much he could have accomplished on his own.

[At the temporizing, though, Allura shakes your head.]

No, your opinion matters plenty. You're still a member of our community, Marik, and you may decide to challenge the Elite Four someday.

[thetombkeeper]

[Much like an agitated cat, Marik puffs up slightly and grunts in response as he thinks on what to say. Having support at that age... It hits too close to home for him. He lifts Oba up to hold him closer, really not wanting to admit the similarities he's finding between himself and Bede.

He didn't need support (just needed to use his brother for everything) and was capable of starting a criminal empire by himself at that age. Surely Bede can manage by himself. Or something.]

I'd rather fight someone I... assume isn't going to act like Whitney. I understand psychological tactics in battle can be good but dealing with someone who displays an ego li-

[He cuts himself short, pursing his lips and looking like a guilty child.

Foot in mouth again. Chen looks back at him with a sympathetic expression. Marik sucks up his pride and does his best not to fully admit what he's feeling but leave enough of a hint for Allura to get what he's saying.]

... He just rubs me the wrong way.

[heartofalioness]

[Yeah, as tense as things are with them, it's not like she wants to make Marik uncomfortable. After a second or two, she gives a nod.]

Understandable. I still think he has potential to grow.

[Maybe Marik does too... as long as he makes good use of it.]

And at least in the mean time, we can enjoy the calm before whatever storm is coming.

[thetombkeeper]

[Marik is very grateful for her taking it easy on him. He visible relaxes, lowering Oba a bit. Clueless to the situation the Goomy just looks happy with life like he always does, babbling on about something. He's very talkative.]

Y-Yeah. Maybe... maybe this will be good for him. At least if he does lose, he still has a gym to go back to to... strengthen himself more.

[He'll try his damndest to prove to everyone he's gotten better. He wants to be able to make his siblings in particular proud should they ever show up.

Marik looks up to meet Allura's gaze again, blinking in confusion.]

... What do you mean "storm?"

[heartofalioness]

Has no one told you yet? Usually there's some sort of attack or disaster at prom; it's almost a tradition in itself. Last year, three bird Pokemon resembling the Legendary Birds arrived and forced us into trials before they would leave us be.

[thetombkeeper]

[Marik stares in disbelief for a moment until he remembers what Shy had told him when he rang her up after getting the invitation. He doesn't say it but his expression absolutely reads "SHIT."]

... Why isn't this place better guarded then?! Are there wards in place if the location is cursed?! S-shouldn't we be readying for an attack?! How did I forget?!

[Marik, child. Calm down.]

[heartofalioness]

Easy, Marik.

[Don't squish Oba too tightly.]

This world doesn't have magic, so wards are out of the question. However, this is the home of the Indigo League's strongest trainer, which I hope would include a high-level security system to match. And at least two potential Elite Four members, several Champions of the Aurora League, and many more experienced trainers are in attendance. And since the likelihood of danger is well-known, almost all of us are on alert.

[thetombkeeper]

[Oba doesn't mind. Squishes are hugs, right?

Oh. Yeah. Magic isn't a thing. He's even talked to Harry about that numerous times. Still, you never know. It might work on mythical pokémon? Marik slumps a bit in his chair while Oba looks back and forth.]

T-That's... good to know. Maybe we'll get lucky... and nothing will happen then? What did the trials consist of...?

[heartofalioness]

One wanted us to race it across hazardous terrain, another wanted to battle, and the third one wanted us to divulge secrets to it. Keith and I participated in the race. All the trials were very one-sided, but apparently we entertained them well enough so they would leave us be.

[And it was on the second night of prom instead of the third, interrupting her and Keith's date night. Amazing how that part still rankled her the most.]

[thetombkeeper]

[He wouldn't blame her one bit if she told him she was still upset over it. Marik would be upset if something so... absurd interrupted him and Shy while on a date night. Probably more than most considering his anger issues.]

And that happened during Prom.

[The blonde shakes his head.]

Were the Birds the real Legendaries or some kind of hoax...?

[heartofalioness]

[Allura shrugs.]

We're still not sure. They looked different from the Legendary Birds, and seemed to have different types as well. But they were very large and powerful; Glycinia, my Galarian Rapidash, only managed to do a little damage to them, even with a type advantage and full training.

[thetombkeeper]

[He lets out a dramatic sigh and sinks down into his chair, causing Oba to shift to sit on his chest instead.]

Maybe different region types...? Not that that makes any sense with legendaries...

How was the race one-sided? Did they make it essentially impossible for people to complete?

[heartofalioness]

Nearly.

[Get comfy, Marik, it's quite the story.]

[thetombkeeper]

[Marik just stares with his mouth agape as Allura tells her story. Oba has no idea what she's talking about but it sounds exciting! Chen rubs his chin in thought and does his best to picture exactly what happened as the princess describes it. Very tricky and unfair indeed.

Afterwards the blonde inhales a deep breath and slowly exhales before asking:]

... Do you ever feel like this place is literally driving you crazy sometimes?

[heartofalioness]

Every so often, yes. [A soft sigh and smile.] Still, the benefits more often outweigh those times.