003 - Memories of a False History

[tabularasa_mods]

Memories of a False History State of the World ▲ Locations ▼ Bestiary
OOC ▲ Comments Please refer to the original Event Announcement for more information or to ask any questions you might have! For the disaster prompt, players are not restricted to the versions given, but they are intended to be the most common. Feel free to borrow ideas from the disaster suggestions thread as well!

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The Sound of All Things Bad
The sound comes without warning. What the sound is cannot quite be made out - it is at once artificial and natural, bestial and mechanical, rumbling and roaring and crunching, shattering and crashing and screaming. Everything about it feels like a threat, warning of danger. The cacophony of noise reaches throughout the entire Void, loud and inescapable, the mangling and clashing of different sounds leaving each individual with a different idea of what it could possibly have been. It sounds different to everyone, each person able to pick out a part of the sound that ties to their own fears.

What if...?

How long the sound lasts would depend on how the individual perceives time. It might last for seconds, or it might last for minutes, but once it stops it does not repeat. Where it came from or what it is does not become the slightest bit clearer, and people are left to only speculate.

Disaster
No one can quite be sure what has prompted them to remember that day. It might have been that noise of approaching doom, or perhaps it is seeing the crumbling ruins of Hammerlocke itself. Once a stray memory surfaces, it is easy enough to look into the details and recall in full the vivid memory of Hammerlocke’s destruction - the ‘truth’ of what caused the mountainside city to crumble into ruins, as so many have wondered since their first appearance. Though the memory is clear and detailed, vivid enough to have been witnessed in person, it is out of place and does not belong, and anyone who can recall the events knows it.

Attempting to discuss the matter will soon reveal that while others recall the event with similar clarity, the details vary from person to person. Over time, their own memory changes and adapts, occasionally changing to something new entirely, yet the original is never completely forgotten. Memory is a strange and fickle thing, so easy to influence and manipulate, that the truth is difficult to find.

While memories differ from person to person, there are three particular tales that recur:

From the Sky

Though the sky above did not change from its paper-like blank white, the land grew darker and darker as though cast in shadow. The source of the shadow was clear: above, slowly descending towards the wings of the castle, was... something. Something immense, yet shrouded in crackling storm clouds.

As it continued to grow closer and closer, something in the clouds began to swell. It grew larger and larger, an electric hum of energy in the air, until with a resounding crack it burst and a great shadowy beast fell to the ground, landing with such force that the resulting shockwave shook the earth and tore through the stone buildings, causing so much of the city to tumble in an instant. It moves, and it screeches, raising its head up as the great storm above continues to swell and crackle.

This would not be the only beast.

(Based upon: Meteor, the Lunar Cry, and the Darkest Day)

The Battlefield

It was never clear why the fighting eventually made its way to this defenseless city, but it came without warning. The chaos was heralded only by explosions as the city walls were blasted through by tanks that had somehow made their way along the treacherous and narrow mountain path that simply was not meant for such heavy machines. The thundering explosions and the collapse of buildings could surely be heard for miles, and people and animals alike were quick to flee.

Though they reached Hammerlocke first, the tanks seemed like nothing compared to the enemy. The enormous shadowy monstrosity that swooped in from the sky seemed to be made from far more advanced technology. Even just the one towering machine, as large as the castle falling to ruins beneath its feet as it lands, proves deadly as it fires upon the approaching tanks, blasting them all to pieces within an instant before turning fire on whichever buildings remain standing.

(Based upon: Tanks, and Reapers)

The Mysterious Storm

There had been no way to predict the change in the weather, never mind how destructive it would prove. One moment, everything had been still and quiet, and the next the city was assailed by howling, violent winds and freezing, glittering snow and ice. Though the city was built of stone and had stood the test of time for centuries, it could not stand against these combined forces. The only shelter was underground, for the furious storm was so powerful it could rip through earth, lift up and fling any object in its path with devastating force, shattering windows and toppling buildings.

Propelled by such force, the ice and hail proved destructive in its own right. As the storm froze everything in its path, the hailstones became like bullets and great chunks of ice became missiles. By the time the winds began to grow calm, there was little left standing.

Something about the storm seemed somehow unnatural, but where it came from was anyone’s guess. Some, however, may have spied a vague figure through the tempest, of unclear appearance but its presence somehow threatening.

(Based upon: Weather, El shortage, and Diamond Dust)

Misplaced Memories
Worries about whatever disaster must have befallen the ruined city of Hammerlocke aside, people quickly become aware that memories of the disaster are not the only invasive, foreign memories. How the other memories come to them seems, on the surface, to be very similar: a connected thought occurs, and upon realizing the memory is not theirs, people are compelled to think more about it until the memory is uncovered in full detail. Unlike the memory of the disaster, however, this one quite clearly belongs to someone else. Someone who is here.

On puzzling this out, some might find they have more than one stray memory sitting in their minds. More importantly, however, is the feeling that something from their own memory is missing, and whatever memory is missing feels like it is something important. It could just be their own phone number, or it could be their name, or the face of whoever is most important to them. It could be something small, it could be something big, but all people know is that it’s something important and it’s gone.

There is no clear, immediate answer as to what people can do about their lost memories. With regards to their new memories, however, the path might seem a tiny bit clearer, for surely it seems a bit unfair that they can see into someone’s past in such a manner without their knowing. Perhaps it’s best to talk to them about it?

Although the lost memory is not always the same as the ones borrowed, taking the memory back to its source and prompting them to discuss and think about it proves a great help - as they talk, the invasive memory leaves, a lost memory is restored, and those who succeed are able to tell others the solution.

While the invasive memory is gone, people can still recall having it, and can still recall the details, but they will no longer remember it from the other’s point of view. Perhaps it might change how they see each other from now on?

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code bases by tricklet

Comments

raihan | semi-OTA

[rotomphone]

i. the sound ( heavenly blanc, ota )

[ to Raihan, the sound is of screaming and crumbling rock - the sound of people perishing, and their surroundings going with it. he'd been taking a walk with Duraludon by the river, thinking of heading into the Heavenly Blanc for a refreshment or two when it hits, stopping him in his tracks. it lasts about thirty seconds, all of which are spent looking up and trying to figure out what's happening. the sky has become odd enough as is, so he wonders at first if that's where it had come from, but things look... well, not normal, but as normal as they looked before the sound.

considering their close proximity, he and Duraludon quickly make their way to the cafe, pushing the doors open in hurried concern to address whoever is inside. ]

Did you just hear that?!

[ depending on your perception of the sound, you might still be hearing it. either way, Raihan looks uncharacteristically worried, his brow knit in confusion and slight fear. ]


ii. the memory ( hammerlocke ruins, ota )

[ Raihan often comes to the ruins on his own, picking at the rubble with Duraludon to see what they can and can't move, or if any debris looks familiar. it's not a particularly enjoyable task, but it's one he feels a duty towards - he's the keeper of the vault, after all. finding out what happened here is his responsibility.

for the second time since arriving here, Raihan should have been careful about what he wished for.

the memory hits him at once, staggering him enough to seek support on one of the few sturdy walls of the stadium. those clouds were familiar - he could never forget them, having seen them and the thing that emerged from them above the stadium back in Galar. but that had been taken care of... Leon, Hop and the Champion had stopped the Darkest Day from happening again.

then why can he remember otherwise? why has it happened in his memory, and why is he standing in the rubble of his hometown as if it did in reality? ]

Damn it! That's not what happened... it couldn't have!

[ it's said a little too loudly for him to be the only one that hears it, should anyone else be in the area. he grips his forehead, sinking down to the ground with his back pressed against the wall. as he struggles to come to terms with what he remembers, Duraludon, unsure of what to make of what his Trainer is doing, makes a sound of concern as his eyes take a worried look. ]

Sorry, mate... I think this is starting to get to me. [ he exhales steadily, pushing his headband askew as he runs an exasperated hand through his hair. he decides to take it off completely instead of fixing it, keeping it clenched in hand as he reflects on the memory invading his mind. after meditating on it for a moment, all he can manage to do is chuckle wryly to himself. ]

Maybe I'm just going mad.


iii. shared memories ( closed )

[ closed threads to follow. Raihan can be approached anywhere for the exchange! ]


iv. wildcard ( ota )

[ anything else! hit me up at bounsweet to plot, including memory shares! ]

THE EXHIBITION MATCH -- closed to Ahsoka

[rotomphone]

[ the memory starts with cheering.

It’s the sort of cheering that might be a sensory overload to those not used to it - the ever-present hum of an audience of tens of thousands. Every so often a cheer breaks out of the cacophony, to the rhythm of Raihan’s name. The bright stadium lights are what hit the senses next, hot and imposing at first, but relaxing and welcome after a moment.

Raihan sighs, rolling his head around his shoulders in apparent boredom as he scrolls through his phone. The crowd is nothing but white noise now. ]

Geez… leave it to the Champion to leave the great Raihan waiting. If my long-awaited win is by default, my fans are gonna riot! [ he glances to a well-dressed man and the imposing woman standing by his side, raising an eyebrow. ] Hey, Chairman! Any idea where our boy is at?

[ the man simply shrugs his shoulders, and the woman looks exasperated. With a response like that, it’s likely that Leon’s just gotten lost again… which doesn’t bode well. Thankfully, it seems like asking was all he had to do - the crowd begins to roar as the stadium’s cameras pan upwards, where Leon is flying down on the back of a Corviknight. He appears to have a young passenger with him as well… Raihan might not know the story, but it’s probably something heartwarming, heroic, and so very Leon. ]

Bloody show-off.

[ it might sound annoyed, but the smirk on Raihan’s lips shows more amusement than anything. If there’s anyone out there that could appreciate a flashy entrance, it’s Raihan. When Leon lands and turns to face him, he cocks a challenging eyebrow. ]

You’re late, Leon! I thought you ran away with your tail between your legs.

[ “As if I’d shy away from an opportunity to battle my greatest rival!”, the long-haired man replies, tossing off his cape to the delight of the crowd. That’s Raihan’s cue as well, pulling out his first Poké Ball. ]

So you are ready to lose. That’s what I like to hear!

[ the battle that ensues is a marvel to watch from start to finish - Leon and Raihan meet each other tit for tat, reading each other’s strengths and weaknesses in the practiced way that only longtime rivals can. It comes down to the wire between Duraludon and Charizard, brought to their full potential with their Gigantimax transformations. The crowd had been going wild with chants and rhythmic clapping cheers before this, but they’re going balistic now. The titans battle with the cataclysmic might that only Galarian battles can bring, but it ends as it usually does - with Leon as the victor.

Raihan grits his teeth for a moment at the loss as he recalls Duraludon, but it doesn’t last long. He quietly thanks Duraludon for his efforts, and in a snap moment he’s smiling for his traditional post-loss selfie. Once it’s been squared away, he meets Leon at the middle of the pitch to shake his hand and concede defeat. It’s a strong handshake that ends up pulling into a bro-hug, much to the delight of the crowd. There’s still post-match interviews to do, but in this moment, the roar of the audience and the companionship of his rival is all that matters.

but of course, he takes the opportunity to snap another well-angled selfie with the two of them in frame. it's for the fans, you know. ]

[realway]

[ FORGING ➠ I am one with the Force, and the Force is with me. ]

[ this memory is wild. energetic, passionate, booming, no one could deny how ramped up every single action and word was. if she concentrates hard enough and closes her eyes, her hands tingle and body chills in recollection. it was a battle, but not a life and death struggle. two rivals with their pokemon (how does she know that word?) ready to give it their all, for themselves, and for a stadium packed full of fans.

she is, inevitably, drawn to the ruins of the only stadium in this land. the size of it is strikingly similar to the one in that memory, though as she gets closer she realizes the two buildings aren't the same. still, it's a good place to ruminate on what she recollects. a battle where she lived in the moment of being one of those trainers, but never felt threatened or afraid. it was exhilarating and fun without the danger factor to get the heart pumping. the trainers were just happy to have a battle, as were the pokemon they partnered with. somewhere, faint in the back of her head, she doesn't think battles are meant to be like that.

her heart aches when she gets inside and sees the true ruinous appearance of a place that should be full of life and color. her steps are drawn to the field, covered in a thin blanket of snow, and she stops in the same spot raihan was in the memory. she breathes in sharp, closing her eyes, trying to remember again.

the woman is going to need to find him, the man who lost. this memory is important to him. ]

[rotomphone]

[ he knows exactly who this memory belongs to, but that doesn't shed any light on the context of its contents. there's a power that he feels surging through him when that focus reaches an apex... he can't put his finger on it, but that mantra that's repeated makes him feel in harmony with it. "The Force"... he's never heard of it himself, but when that strange glowing blade is gripped, whatever it is resonates with him.

it makes him think of home, even if his home is not as he remembers it. he's been wandering the ruins with Duraludon for what feels like hours (but who's to say how long or short it's been, with time being how it is?); Ahsoka will not need to find him. rather, he finds her, walking through the entrance of the stadium to see her standing in his usual spot. ]

Admiring the architecture? [ he asks loud enough for her to hear, approaching with his hands casually stuffed in his hoodie pockets. ] It looks way more impressive in one piece, promise.

A CITY OF GREAT HISTORY -- closed to Tifa

[rotomphone]

[ The memory is a simple one, but one that’s preserved in perfect detail. After finishing some field training in the Wild Area, Raihan has opted to return home via the scenic route. The imposing stone gates depicting a dragon’s maw frame the entrance to the walled city, and reveal the full wonder of what Hammerlocke is supposed to look like. The tall stone walls are lit by iron lamps and torches and the cobblestone streets are lined like dragon scales, leading straight ahead to the drawbridge leading into Hammerlocke Stadium, its castle structure fully intact and acting as it should - as the center of the Galar region. The “wings” of the castle fan out like dragon wings, spreading over the city as if protecting it.

Before he returns to the gym, there’s a few errands he has to take care of in the city’s commercial west end - mainly buying snacks for his Gym Trainers, but also making rounds to make sure that nothing needs the Gym Leader’s attention. The pedestrian walkways are populated with tourists and locals alike, making the city feel truly alive. There’s nothing worrying for Raihan to take note of, but as he strolls through a small park decorated with blooming purple roses, he’s noticed by two amateur Trainers having a battle and the small crowd surrounding them. ]

Mind if I sit in? It looks like your Pokémon are raring to go!

[ the two Trainers look thrilled as he grins at them, and the crowd looks just as enthused - including a small gaggle of girls that all but swoon when he looks their way. The battle isn’t exactly as exciting as a League match, but Raihan watches with energy, congratulating the winner and giving the loser a word of advice to help secure victory next time. Once the excitement of the battle has settled, an entirely new wave starts with the group asking for selfies, autographs, and battle tips, all things that Raihan is happy to provide. Before he departs, he makes sure that his Rotom Phone snaps a picture of all of them together for him to post online. ]

[starshower]

When Heaven falls.

★☆★

[It was Raihan who tracked Tifa down, finding her near Heavenly Blanc to talk about what she can only assume are this mixed memory phenomenon they've all been experiencing lately. It's been a heavy time for many of them, and given what others have seen, she can't help but wonder what memory of hers that Raihan has sought her out to trade.

The one he'd given her was... well, unexpected. There was an odd familiarity as she walked through the city of Hammerlocke in its prime, with its buildings standing tall and proud, the grasses green, and the people within it lively. It made her smile, but it also left a pang of sadness in her chest when she found herself wandering through the ruins to pinpoint the same locations.

It was a memory that didn't belong to her, but one she would cherish nonetheless, especially knowing the disaster that befell it after: a meteor, and a beast that fell from it coming down on Hammerlocke to destroy it.

She may be running Heavenly Blanc these days, but that won't stop her from rummaging behind the bar to pour the two of them some drinks. His drink of choice, and a cold beer for her that she brings back to a table. Silence hangs for a moment longer while she twists the cap off and tosses it with a clink, and only then does she finally let out the breath she'd been holding in.]

You were a big deal in Hammerlocke, weren't you?

[rotomphone]

[ it's been a long, mentally exhausting day. between the invasive false memory of Hammerlocke and the slow stream of memories not belonging to him flowing into his mind, the intake of information has mellowed him out some from his usual boisterous attitude. he's sought Tifa out in hopes that she'll want this memory back, even if it's a painful one... and he wants to know what happened, too. at least talking over a drink means they'll get some enjoyment out of it all, if only for the company.

he's not going to go over the top with boasting, but he's also not going to play down what she saw in his memory, either. ]

I sure was. Us Gym Leaders represent the cities we're based in, but we also have a sort of unwritten responsibility to help keep the peace. People trust us.

[ he almost takes a swig of his bottle, but tips it towards her in a casual toast offering instead. once he's taken up on it, then he'll take a drink. ]

I've got a big online following on top of that, so my fans go pretty crazy when they see me out and about. [ he grins. ] What can I say? I like giving the people what they want.

THE DARKEST DAY -- closed to Cloud

[rotomphone]

[ three young teenagers - two girls and a boy, all bespectacled and wearing the Hammerlocke Gym uniform - stand at the exit of Hammerlocke Stadium, just shy of the drawbridge leading outside. The stadium has already been evacuated of its employees and visitors, leaving only Raihan and his Gym Trainers left. they look concerned as a tremor rocks through the building, seemingly coming from below, seeking answers from their mentor.

”Leader Raihan… do you have any idea what’s going on?”, asks one of the girls. "What's the Chairman doing in the Energy Plant?", asks the other. "Is he really going to try to try to start the Darkest Day again?"

it's a lot of questions, none of which Raihan has the answers to. ]

I’m sorry to say it, but I know about as much as you guys do - you saw that broadcast. I had a nagging feeling in the back of my head about Rose, but I never thought he’d actually…

[ he trails off and sighs. Whether or not he thought Rose’s ambitions would actually bear fruit, he should have been ready for this.

He shakes his head. He has to be present, but also has to have faith in Leon. if there's anyone he can count on to take care of this, it's him. ]

Well, that’s not important right now. What is important is that the city isn't safe right now. The people of Hammerlocke need our help getting out, and we have a duty to them.

[ though the three teenagers nod, it would be a lie to say they didn’t look concerned. Not knowing the situation is a bit frightening, and while they understood the responsibility that came with being a Hammerlocke Gym Trainer under Raihan’s tutelage, actually acting in a crisis is something different altogether. Raihan reads the trepidation in their expressions, and understands. ]

You guys look nervous. I know - it’s pretty scary, isn’t it? [ he leans down to put his arms around them in a loose huddle, close enough to even be called a hug. The reassurance comes with a smile, which the three respond to with ones of their own. ] But you’ll be okay. I trained you to be prepared for situations like this, didn't I? And I’ll be right along there with you, so I want to see you do me proud!

[ the impromptu pep talk seems to invigorate the young man, who nods with more confidence. The two girls follow suit, nodding with a “right!” cheered in unison before they run out of the Gym, Poké Balls gripped in hand. Raihan takes a moment to watch them go, feeling a swell of pride before he follows to assist them. as for what's going on below... that's not his role to play. ]

[memorate]

[ A few hours had gone by since Cloud first remembered that. Little did he know that it would only be the first of his many false memories, but at least in this case he's aware that this wasn't his own memory. Being addressed as Leader Raihan, he could easily deduce whose memory this belongs to, but he's not sure why he has a recollection of someone else's experience.

Perhaps if he met up with Raihan, the man could provide some answers. He just so happens to catch him on the way out of the apartment building... almost as if he was waiting for him. He could have just gone straight to his room, of course, but that might be too personal? Who knows what the protocol is when it comes unintentionally peering into somebody's past.

Might as well not beat around the bush... ]

"Darkest Day". [ That ought to get his attention, hopefully. ] Ring any bell?

[rotomphone]

[ the voice in Raihan's received is familiar, but not one that he can immediately put his finger on... but whoever it was must have been a pretty lucky guy to have a girl that looked like that basically throwing herself at him. if anything, he'll have some words for him - there was barely an acknowledgement of every flirting attempt, even after she'd kissed him on the bloody cheek! what guy in their right mind would ignore that?

he'll have to figure out who this guy is (along with why he seemingly has one of his memories), but before he can even start the search, he's stopped by Cloud. before he can even get his own word out, his ever-present smile sinks into something more serious. ]

...How do you know about that?

THE STING OF DEFEAT -- closed to Blue

[rotomphone]

[ the memory does not fade in - rather, it simply appears, like a television suddenly regaining its picture after a bout of static. A much younger Raihan, clad in a Gym Challenge uniform and orange beanie, stands with Duraludon in his Gigantimax form, though it already looks like it’s taken a beating. Across the pitch stands another young man also in a Challenger uniform, his shoulder-length purple hair sticking out from under his black snapback cap. While Raihan looks like he’s in a pinch, his opponent looks steadfast and calm. The crowd around them roars, spurred by the climax of the incredibly close battle. ]

There’s no way I’m gonna lose… not here, and not to you! We’ve worked way too hard to stop now, Leon!

[ hunched over and fingers curled, he swipes his hand in command, like a dragon’s claw. ]

Duraludon! G-Max Depletion!!

[ though the swirling, all-encompassing attack does enough damage to the gargantuan Charizard to stagger it, the move is ultimately in vain. The spread wings of the G-Max Wildfire that the Fire-type unleashes on Leon’s command is too much for Duraludon, and in the smoke of the explosion that follows, it’s knocked out.

”And that’s it! With a decisive victory, Challenger Leon will be moving on to the Galar League finals!”

As the crowd cheers for Leon, Raihan quietly returns Duraludon to his Ball, head hung in… well, he’s not sure. It’s probably anger, but there are new emotions on this stage - shame, embarrassment… and frustration. all of them continue to bubble as he customarily walks to the center of the pitch, where Leon sunnily offers his hand to shake for a battle well-fought. He takes it, but perhaps squeezes a bit too hard to be friendly. ]

How… how can you keep smiling like that?

[ it’s muttered between grit teeth, as if holding back. before Leon can ask what he means, he hastily lets go of his hand and quickly retreats off the pitch to the locker room.

Once there, it all spills out at once - he punches the door of a locker with all of his might, making a small dent in it. It hurts, but the pain is easy to grit his teeth through with the overwhelming emotions of his loss overtaking him. he was supposed to be Champion and be the one to prove his strength… why couldn’t he beat Leon after all this time?

Getting angry at losses in the past felt as natural as breathing, but nowadays it just makes him tired. The pain in his hand from hitting the locker is starting to set in now, and it hurts. the tears, previously held in with all his might, are now flowing without control as he staggers backward to sit on the locker room bench, head hanging in defeat as he lets it out. When it finally feels like he doesn’t have any tears left to shed, he wipes his eyes with his sleeve and takes out his phone, activating the camera to see what he looks like. He grimaces when he points the front-facing camera at himself - he looks like a mess of puffy, wet eyes and red cheeks, but decides in that moment that he’s done feeling sorry for himself. His brow furrows, and the shutter snaps a photo.

It’ll be the first of many - a memory to remind himself of the pain of defeat, but also to push him to become stronger. This isn’t the end; whether or not Leon becomes Champion, he’ll defeat him yet. It’s a promise. ]

1/2

[halloflamer]

[When you first come face to face with Red again, unexpectedly, nearly walking straight into him in the halls of the Pokémon World Tournament, you silently cursed out Lance under your breath. That meddling old bastard, he planned this...! The initial wave of irritation is chased by many things- anxiety, shame, guilt- how can you look Red in the eye now, after all this time, after what you did to him? After you chased him off, treated him so badly that he went up the mountain for years?]

[But that's not all you feel. There's also excitement, and relief, and unbridled happiness. Thank Arceus. He's safe, he's here, and he's.....]

[He's certainly... grown up....]

[You can't help notice things like that at your age now, but then again, when it came to Red you always did, didn't you? Even if you didn't recognize or want to admit it. And you can only smother it the way you always have, gawking awkwardly for a moment before forcing through it by being as loud and overanimated as you possibly can, so that everyone, including yourself, forgets whatever else you might be feeling.]

HAAAAH!? RED, YOU BASTARD, WHAT'RE YOU DOING HERE!?

[You laugh over-enthusiastically and clap your hand against his back, and he lets out the tiniest, silent puff of breath forced out, not budging any more than that. And when you expect for him to look at you with distaste and irritation, but it doesn't come, you don't know what to do, then.]

[Well. You've got a lot of catching up to do, haven't you?]

---

[It would only make sense that it's the two of you who make it to the semi-finals of the tournament; the only other opponent ahead of you is the winner of the battle between the current Unova Champ and that smug rock weirdo from Hoenn. You got your revenge on Lance, knocking him out in the round previous- now, he's in the stands with the rest of the regional Champions, watching as you and Red take the field.]

[You don't remember the last time you felt like this- real excitement, real anticipation, your chest thudding and the announcer on the loudspeaker only muffled background noise as you stare across the battlefield at one another.]

[Where you belong. Once more.]

[But this time feels different from the last time you faced each other on a battlefield. That time, your adrenaline was fueled by a kind of manic anticipation, delusions of glory and revenge, and desperation not to be left behind; the kind of anticipation you feel now is different. It feels like closure.]

[This battle will decide it all. And whatever happens...... This time, you know you'll be able to accept it.]

[If Red decides this is it, then you can live with that. You can only pray that the words you were able to exchange with him already were enough for him not to, but if they weren't, you'd understand.]

[Now though, you have to focus on the battle. Red has surely grown as a trainer too, in all the time that's passed between then and now, and you're already trying to anticipate. You've always been the analytical type; you observed his battles in the tournament so far, tried to understand his new strategies. His team hasn't changed, and neither has yours- you're both repping Kanto to your fullest. All you can do is take all the knowledge you have of him, and trust in your strategies, older and wiser than you were before.]

Red....! [You shout across the battlefield, grinning, picking a Pokéball from your belt. You'll bet it on this one.] Just watch me! This time, we'll be the ones that knock you down!

[Those watching from the stands don't notice any difference, but you do. Under the shadow of his cap, you see the tiniest curl of a confidant grin, bursting with excitement as you both pitch your Pokéballs forward with the roar of the crowd.]

[This is gonna be a good battle.] Let's do this!

[halloflamer]

[His hand still hurts from the echo of the memory, and Blue hisses softly and shakes it out in the clammy steam of the bath as he enters, rolling and popping his shoulder. That memory had felt so natural when it first occurred to him that he.... actually had to stop and think about it for a few moments before he could really recognize it not as his own, by the unfamiliar boy that had been his opponent. But even the unfamiliarity hadn't quite been there- Leon, his memory had told him, dredging up complicated and familiar feelings of frustration, adoration, and loneliness. My rival.]

[No. Not his rival. But where was the difference?]

Ah, make sure to leave your towel, [Blue points out, unshyly dropping his from his waist and draping it on the edge of the bathtub before sinking in, letting out a heavy, relaxed sigh. Man, the water was really hot in this bath, but he needed it after mostly bathing in the river and waterfall in Mt. Silver, until the apartments appeared. Duraludon couldn't really enjoy the bath and Eevee had been forbidden already (no fur in the bath!!), and had gone off to do their own exploring and mingling with the local Smeargle in the rest of Wall Market.]

[He gestures for Raihan to sit- maybe the bath might be... a little hard for him to fold himself into....? But he could certainly sit on the edge, at least. Blue wouldn't mind the view.....]

Though I doubt anyone but us is gonna come while we're here, there's not that many of us.

...Hey, how're you holding up, anyhow?

[rotomphone]

[ with everything that's been happening for the past... indeterminate amount of time, Raihan's been feeling more run down than he usually allows himself to be. he's been making a good effort to not let it slip besides when his false memory of Hammerlocke decided to give him a metaphorical kick in the balls, so he's a bit surprised when Blue invites him to the Wall Market bathhouse. he hadn't visited it yet, also opting to use the more refreshing mountain water sources for something close enough to a shower. still, he accepts for both the sake of the new experience and the more internal hope that this will help him relax.

he's not privy to this culture's bathhouse rules, but knows enough that he doesn't hesitate in removing his towel. as long as his hair stays up in the bun he's tied it in and out of the water, he doesn't think he'll be uncomfortable. ]

Eastern-style bathhouses really bare it all, huh? [ he chuckles. ] I like it.

[ he decides to sit on the edge to test the water and feel the steam first, and to sink in once he's relaxed some. he's quite used to being ogled, so Blue can stare as he likes... just know that he's definitely noticed.

but relaxation aside, there's the subject of Blue's memory - of a meeting (or a reunion? he felt a sense that it had been a while; a sense of longing) with Red that has similar notes of what he feels when he battles Leon. he's sure it'll come up soon enough, but he just doesn't know Blue enough to be able to predict how much he's willing to share. Raihan is more or less an open book when it comes to most things, but he's aware that not everyone else feels that way. ]

How do you mean?

[ just to make sure, of course. open as he may be, Raihan's responses are always carefully thought out. it doesn't quite fit his image, but he likes keeping a cool head off the pitch - a far cry from the wild child of his lost memory. ]

A GARGANTUAN PROBLEM -- closed to Noctis

[rotomphone]

[ thanks to a certain pair of royal pains looking to stir up trouble in Galar, several of the Dragon-type Pokémon populating the Hammerlocke Gym have Dynamaxed against their will and are on a near rampage. There are four Pokémon in total that need calming down, but three are being taken care of by backup - two young Trainers and a young man in a punk-like outfit. That leaves one Pokémon to Raihan, and he knows it all too well. The gigantic Kommo-o standing before him is a friend - a Pokémon under training at the gym. ]

Hey, Kommo-o! It’s me, Raihan! Can you hear me?

[ the gigantic dragon does not respond, simply taking an intimidating step forward in anticipation to attack. Its scaly armor jingles together as it moves, creating a sharp, metallic sound that makes Raihan cringe and put his hands to his ears. ]

That Wishing Star really got to your head, didn't it? But it’s not like you can help it… so let’s calm you down a little!

[ he throws a Poké Ball to release Duraludon, ready to fight at Raihan’s command. It’s tough to take on an irritated Dynamaxed Pokémon on your own, but Raihan is more than confident in his ace’s abilities. That confidence isn’t unfounded - with the power of a Max Rockfall setting up a raging sandstorm, a Max Steelspike dealing a large amount of damage, and a G-Max Depletion to finish it off, the Kommo-o is finally relaxed from its frenzy and returns to normal size. Duraludon does as well, giving Raihan the space to run up to the defeated Pokémon and kneel next to it. ]

There we are… that must have tuckered you out. [ he gives the dragon’s scales a soothing pet, to which it weakly coos and leans into the touch. While he does, he uses his free hand to take out a berry from his pocket. ] Here. I reckon a good rampage is enough to make you work up an appetite!

[ the Kommo-o takes the offering; the energy from the berry is enough to help it get on its feet, and Raihan gives it a proper petting to soothe any remaining nerves. He looks around at the stadium - the structure looks relatively undamaged, and the other three rampaging Pokémon have been similarly settled. ]

[king_in_dreams]

[Noct knows all too well that Gladio let him win in their race along the beach. It doesn't take much for Gladio to outpace him, after all, considering the other man's longer legs and better fitness, but it also doesn't mean he won't revel in the victory while he can.]

---

[It takes Noct some time to track Raihan down. It would absolutely have been harder if Duraludon hadn't been in the memory, considering he's still learning names and faces around here.]

Hey!

[He waves to Raihan as he calls out.]

Got a second?

[rotomphone]

[ though the memory is mostly a mundane one, it sticks out to Raihan simply for a couple of reasons. the first is the familiarity of rivalry in friendship - whoever these two were, they were clearly pushing each other to be better in a friendly way, and Raihan can relate to that. the second is that the man that the memory owner had raced against was about as tall as Raihan is, which isn't something that he sees often. the rest is unfamiliar, but the early-morning beachside view has him yearning to see a sunrise.

that doesn't help at all in determining who the memory belongs to, though. the voice sounds a bit familiar, but he can't put his finger on it... until Noctis approaches him in the apartment complex lobby, about to head out. this isn't the first time he's been approached seemingly without prompting, so he has a feeling that he knows what it's about. ]

Sure! [ he raises an eyebrow. ] But let me guess, first - you've got a memory that belongs to me, right?

[ it's said in good nature, but it's been happening a lot for the past... day? few hours? time is still confusing, but it's been happening. ]

The Sound

[mightdoriya]

[What Raihan hears isn't too much unlike what Izuku ends up hearing. It's the sound of war in his ears, plain and simple, not simply a natural thing. Yet, he can't figure out the source, not when it feels like it's coming from all around him.

Raihan will find Izuku rushing up from nearby on the back of Toshi, who is trotting along the ground instead of flying. It's a little more risky to just take to the sky right now when he doesn't have his usual magical protections to keep himself and his rider safe.]

Yes, as soon as I left Merlaut- Raihan-san, what is going on?

[rotomphone]

[ what Raihan hears isn't necessarily war but certainly a byproduct of it - human suffering, clear as day. the panicked cries of Pokémon that he can't pinpoint are laced into it as well, simultaneously confusing him and worrying him more. ]

No clue. But whatever it was, it felt big.

[ Duraludon mounts himself on all fours, putting his claws to the ground to see if he can feel anything. when Raihan asks if he does, he shakes his head. his attention turns to the sky next, to look for something like smoke or an airborne threat. ]

Do you think you can send Toshi on a low-altitude scout?

i

[activatingcombatmode]

[Zack doesn't know all that much about this world yet. It's a weird jumbled up mess of a place and the white-void above his head doesn't do much to help him out either. He's still so new that he's still trying to find the time to see everything that is around so he's not expecting to find things crashing out of the sky or loud mechanical screeches coming from nowhere.

He turns when the other man practically bursts into this place. He had already been looking up at the sky through the window when it all started so he gets up with a start.]

What the hell is going on?

[At least he's not the only one who's shocked by what's happening. Random terrible sounds echoing from all over the place... What the hell?]

[rotomphone]

[ and while Raihan might know a little more about it by virtue of experience, the gap between his knowledge and Zack's probably isn't all that wide. no one around here has any idea why things are the way they are, this instance included. ]

Your guess is as good as mine. I couldn't tell where it was coming from...

[ Raihan steps in, getting a glance through the window to see if he can see anything from that angle. it doesn't look like anything is shaken up, but that noise... it was violent.

he looks Zack over for a moment, sizing him up. he hasn't seen him around before, but that sword on his back sure makes him look capable enough... ]

Care to do some recon with us? [ "us" referring to him and the creature that's staring him down from the doorway, of course. he's worried about the situation, but that doesn't keep him from smiling. ] It could be dangerous, but the more eyes out there, the better.

ii

[anciently]

[ Raihan certainly isn't the only one who sees the vision. ... Or, he isn't the only one who sees a vision.

Aerith - who'd been passing through on her way to try and figure out what was happening in their strange, new world - looks over at him with a small frown. ]

Hey - it's okay. That must be really difficult for you to watch. [ Especially if it hadn't really happened to his Hammerlocke back home. Of course, the whole thing reminds her of the plate dropping onto Sector 7, which...had unfortunately been very, very real. ]

Do you wanna...maybe take a walk? Take your mind off it a bit?

[rotomphone]

[ oh... well that's a bit embarrassing, isn't it? he'd assumed that no one would be around to see this moment of weakness, let alone one that he both knows and has seen it before. Aerith is definitely getting the wrong idea about him - with this on top of their first meeting back in the stadium, she's probably getting ideas of weakness and fragility from him. he'd much rather be seen as a paragon of confidence and strength than someone being subjected to a slow-moving emotional breakdown. in a way, it frustrates him even more than being subjected to these conflicting, troubling memories.

Duraludon's look of concern doesn't alleviate when Aerith shows up, though he does take a more defensive stance to protect his Trainer, if need be. Raihan, on the other hand, looks up from his lowered gaze to meet hers - he's sure he looks pitiful, but he's too emotionally exhausted to do much about it in the moment. but her response is what catches him off guard-- ] ...you saw it, too?

[ it was easy enough to assume that whatever force brought him to this world is just picking on him, but there's a bit of relief in knowing that others have seen it, too, mostly because it makes him feel less like he's going insane. ]

Yeah, that's putting it mildly. [ but, in true Raihan form, it's said with a smile. he can't let this get to his head, even if it feels like it's already there - literally.

a walk might help. he rises to full height but stuffs his hands into his hoodie pockets, along with his headband. it's a little chilly, but he'll live. ] It's worth a shot. Sorry if I worried you two.

[ he gives Duraludon a thankful rub on the head before starting off with him, fully expecting Aerith to follow - he'll wait for her if she doesn't. the company would be nice. ]

MORNING AIR -- closed to Ren

[rotomphone]

[ Hammerlocke is normally a city bustling with life at all times of day, but there's a certain witching hour - after the nightlife businesses have closed but before the daytime establishments have opened, while the streets are still lit by the torches lining the walls - that things get quiet. a few nocturnal wild Pokémon can be seen scurrying about, but they aren't the star of this memory.

interestingly enough, these are some of the only moments that Raihan has to himself. when you're as busy as he is both on and offline, opportunities to really slow down and breathe come far and few between. that busyness can also keep him from really appreciating his city, but tonight is an excellent opportunity - he's giving a tour. as he approaches the steps leading up to the vault, he looks over his shoulder. in his hoodie, two antenna poke out to reveal a slightly sleep-addled Goomy, letting out a little yawn.

You awake? [ the young Pokemon gurgles and coos, but nods as it holds on a little tighter to his shoulder. there's going to be slime all over his hoodie, but it's worth it. ] Good. Hold on tight, and don't look down!

[ the trek starts simply enough up the pre-carved stairs of the Vault, but things get much faster with more momentum, and Raihan starts to take some detours. a little scramble up some loose bricks here, a jump off of a wall there... as he scales the castle walls, the exhileration makes him feel nothing short of free. Goomy holds on for the ride as advised, but squeaks a bit when he accidentally glances down to the ground, prompting a laugh from Raihan. the rest of the trip goes without a hitch - with the smooth way that he moves and climbs, it's clear that he's done this plenty of times before.

as they get closer to the top of the castle walls, the sun is slowly beginning to rise over the horizon. when they get to the top, the view is breathtaking - the Wild Area, in its expansive, untouched glory. he sighs in relaxed bliss, and as Goomy peeks over his shoulder and gets his first look, his eyes widen in awe. ]

Never gets old...

[ the sun is fully in the sky now, turning it from its dark, star-illuminating colour into rosy pinks and oranges. it illuminates the land even more, showing the rolls of Hammerlocke Hills and the glistening waters of the Lake of Outrage. he settles down to sit on the top of the wall and plops Goomy into his lap, giving them both a comfortable angle to watch the world wake up. ]

We're gonna be training out there tomorrow. Are you excited?

[ the Goomy coos, looking up at Raihan with an excited smile. he returns it softly, giving him a soft rub on the head between his antenna. ]

Thought so.

[forethinking]

( yusuke's lobsters! )

(Both Lance and Raihan are not too difficult to track in the apartments due to the sheer size of their Pokémon, and Ren certainly can remember what door has a giant, fluffly dragon and what door contains a metal friend. Talking to Raihan was in his to-do list the second the sound shrieked in his ears, the Hammerlocke he holds so dearly being destroyed... Ren instantly recalls their first meeting, with Raihan trying to hide the pain and guilt for not protecting it as he should have - even if it wasn't real in the first place.

So, finally, he can do as planned. He waits in front of the door after a quick succession of knocks, hoping for the other's well-being.)