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heartkick_inc[Birch sure was taking a while.... or perhaps Norman was just impatient. He didn't think he was, but as the minutes ticked away into what felt like hours he really started to wish he had a watch. Birch always had a watch but Norman more preferred to keep the time with the passing sun. Sunrise was when the day started, they ate when they got hungry, dusk was about time to either set up camp or head for the nearest town. Here? Here it was hard to tell much of anything other than the light at the end of the corridor told him there was still daylight outside. He could always go check and come back, it wasn't that far, but what if Birch came back and couldn't find him? Eh, maybe he could leave one of his pokemon here to keep watch. But would Birch be able to see it from down in the hole?
And with that thought, Norman was getting impatient.... and a little worried. On the one hand though, Birch said he could see the ladder from the fallen platform, that didn't mean it was close by. Likewise, he didn't know how far the ladder was from the door in the wall either. A tad flustered, the League hopeful decided to take a seat by the door to wait. If Birch tried to holler to him from either the wall or the alter, he could hear him from here.]
Norman: [But still, dammit, Birch, he could be using this time for training! .... Slight chuckle to himself before he leaned against the door, tilting his head upward at the oddly colored section marked "Lugia". Really he couldn't blame his friend for all this when he was just as curious and just as responsible for that puzzle. Gives a shiver and pulls the light close. Thinking] Hmmm..... Lugia.... I wonder what it means? [looking down the hall] I mean, it’s possible that if this place is so old, it might have come here as roost before the Ecruteak Towers were built....
[He gives another shiver as the cold stone against his bare skin was really not helping. Instead he continued to try to ignore it as his mind wandered on the subject. Thinking it over, it didn't seem so strange after all. A small city was built in the mountains with the ocean at its feet... all of the pokemon statues that held pieces were water types, which could have been because of Lugia and its association with water, but Kabutops, Omastar, Slowking..... Rhydon was the exception, but it could learn Surf couldn't it? If memory served him correctly, they learned that once upon a time the ocean levels were much higher too so maybe the shore came right up to the town here. Maybe Lugia would have come..... What was that?]
Norman: [sits up when he hears a soft bell like chime.] .... [starts to get up. Maybe he had dozed off there in the dark, the altar had been blocking his view of the light outside but.... There it is again. That..... that was weird. Brushing himself off, he started to move passed the altar to try to get a better look.]
[There it is again! For a moment he thought he saw some, small like a bat, and yet it just drifted across the light of the tunnel. There comes a soft chime somewhere nearby as well.... He starts to follow it to see what it was, carefully placing a hand on the first pokeball in the line just in case. He doesn't see it any more though, and another chime suddenly but softly comes from behind him.]
Norman: [turns around] Hello? o.o
[There's a few little rings this time, one after another as if the noise is bouncing off of them. But it there’s no denying, the noise was getting louder]
Norman: [cautiously looking around as the long tunnel gives an echo with the chimes. Okay, this is spooky] ..... [shining his light around. The beam flickered a moment, so he gave the light a shake. It came back on, but the light was now dim. Great, power going out] ...... Birch? Are you back yet?
~The various little chimes, not really chimes now as they seemed to be coming together like music... singing.... the light faded out. So subtly it was as if it were a candle blown out by the wind. A shiver went down Norman's spine. This..... he could always resort to having a pokemon use Flash, that was his plan in the first place, but there seemed to be such a sense of mixed wonder and dread as place suddenly seemed to be a very arid cave setting. Don't say it... don't think it... it can't be.... can it?~
Norman: [picks up a pokeball again, looking around the place as he could hear something, a soft rumble near the altar like something very very large breathing deeply. Like something had been awoken. ... The altar..... He wasn't one to get scared so easily, but his voice trembled as he thought maybe, just maybe that noise was from below. Thinking* Birch, please please please tell me that's you. *His voice shaking, though trying to sound playful] I could really use a friend right now~
[A few of the long winded chimes, something of a tuning fork ring with the loud start slowly fading as it held the note was the response. .... And then the sound that was definitely the platform moving.]
Norman: ..... O.O [Wait the platform is moving!] Birch?! Answer me! Are you there?! [If he's not on that platform, he's gonna be trapped down there. Trying to rush to the altar. He hadn't realized he had gotten so far from it.] Persian, give us a light!
Persian: [seems to leap from the pokeball, sensing her master's urgency. She lands gracefully with a powerful stance ahead of him and charges into the darkness, fur bristling as she gives off a gentle glow quickly illuminating the area.]
[Norman skids in front of the alter, nearly falling backwards as he immediately falls back at the very sight. The platform had been raised, and there on the altar, wings outspread at the sight of an oncoming attack, was a large, white, dragon like creature with sharp blue streaks lining its back. It gave a startled but very distinct and threatening cry as the teen fell to the ground and continued to back away as best as he could.]
Norman: [.... How in the... what in the... just... it can't be... how.... it’s...] L-l-lugia....
[His heart was still racing, pounding so hard it almost hurt, and his chest heaved as he tried to catch his breath. The great beast gave a cry again as if demanding he stand up and face it.]
Lugia: ......... [eyes narrow, but seeing that the boy didn't seem to want to hurt it, Persian just standing there on guard in case of an attack and both seeming as startled as anything.... folds its wings in and lowers its head to get a better look at the tiny human scurrying to his feet] Are you the one that summoned me?
Norman: [it.... its mouth didn't really move. In fact, it should have been a comfort to see it close its mouth as it meant it wasn't trying to eat him, but staring into those deep grey eyes, almost no light reflecting in them....It... just... talked? Did he hear that right? He turns a wary glance at the panther standing beside him, though it seemed unlikely the giant was talking to her. Seemed she wasn’t very happy to see the dragon but he could hardly blame her.] Y-y-yes....
Lugia: [backing away, slightly, with a bit of caution and annoyance]
Norman: [his breathing is finally coming back at least, but his voice still wants to escape him] I, I, I'm s-sorry.... I just... I'm really really sorry, I was just l-looking for a f-friend... [and his voice slowly faded on that note. Why was he telling GREAT GUARDIAN OF THE SEA this? Yes he was looking for his friend, but it’s not like it'd care to hear of some human's problems. Come on Norman, you finally have a chance to meet the LEGEND and forgot what you wanted to tell him]
Lugia: ....... [lets that linger in the air a moment. Honestly not sure what to make of the request. In fact, Its’ a tad confused, but seems to ease up in its’ stance as the voice comes again almost otherworldly yet much more gentle.] A friend? [the creature, much to its’ human companion's surprise, gave a bow, lowering its head in something of respect] .... If that is what you wish.
[Norman wasn't sure what to make of the creature's actions and seemed even more boggled by its words. As you wish, “he”, judging by its voice, had said. They had summoned it "he" had said. The teen couldn't help but feel a mixture of shock and sudden uncertainty about this. Did he... have control over Lugia simply because of the puzzle ritual? Something about that seemed wrong, and there came a sinking feeling in wondering if the ancient peoples had done the same. If they had.... was that why Lugia seemed so angry at first? What did they make him do?]
Lugia: Your majesty-
Norman: [well that just shocked him out of any and all trains of thought] What, what? o.O [shakes hands to cut off that statement right there] I'm not anything like that! Honest! But... [looking at the altar] I guess it would normally have been the leaders that called you, huh? o.o
Lugia: I am not used to being called.
Norman: I... can't say I'm used to this either. I'd send you back but um... I'm not sure how.
Lugia: You said you called me.... as a friend. Then as long as I may be your friend, I would be happy to stay, if that would make you happy.
Norman: [made sense... kind of. Which if Lugia was waiting for him to say "GET OUT, YOU'RE NO LONGER MY FRIEND" or something, they could be here a while. Honestly if he could befriend the creature and figure a way to allow it to leave without forcing it to would be wonderful. But...] It’s the most amazing feeling in the world right now. I would love for you stay, if you don't mind.
Lugia: Why would I mind? [really, he is completely and utterly confused by you, little one. He's been worshiped, he's been hated, he's been made into legends but for someone to just, you know... wanna hang out is a foreign concept. Question is, do you mind seeing just exactly what he is] o.o
Norman: .... [this.... is still SO weird. But that quiet tone somehow made him smile] You might be here a while, is all. ^w^;;; [shifts a bit nervously] And.... you can call me Norman.
Lugia: [that much he can understand, and gives a nod to show so] And you called me....... "Birch"? o.o [this.... again. You are a very very strange little human.]
Norman: [eyes go wide a sec, and normally he would have burst out laughing, but he didn't want to seem insulting. Covers his mouth a moment to hide it as best as he can] Nooooo no no no, you misunderstood. [ahem Birch is the friend I was looking for when you showed up.
Lugia: .... I see.
Norman: [oh now he's done it] Not that I wasn't looking for you! Its just, Birch and I have been traveling together, going to all the places people said you used to go, reading up on the stories. I want you here, I really do, but after we solved the puzzle on the alter-
Lugia: [puzzle? altar? Looks back at what Norman is motioning to. There is a strange picture there which seems to bear some resemblance to himself. How strange] o.o
Norman: -he disappeared. I know he can't be far, but... I'm getting worried.
Persian: [rubbing against him. I'm worried too, sir, there's something strange about this place.] Siaaaan o.o [and that pokemon.... Lugia... there's something not right about him. Sir?] Siaaaan? [sits and looks up at him, the tip of her tail curling up and rolling out in a nervous fashion. He doesn't seem to feel the same way, but he just kind of started stroking her out of habit like he's not paying attention right now*
[the singing had been going on rather softly, and when Norman began to look around, he noticed where it was coming from... possibly. The letters on the walls, strange black characters with large white eyes somewhere in the design, were drifting aimlessly from one wall to the next. Needing to spread their non-existent wings or simply out of boredom, it was hard to tell. When one moved, another slipped into its place. The temple.... it was alive!]
Persian: [watching them closely, and gives a hiss as one drifts by]
Norman: Its okay, girl.... [stroking her behind the ear]
Persian: [oh... oh right there...] ~w~ .... o.o [can't shake her uneasiness with those things]
Norman: What... are those...? Are they pokemon? o.o
Lugia: [watching them as well, but it seems more of like copying the other two] They say they, too, are friends.
Norman: [oooooookay? Slightly amused but still weirded out] Um..... nice to meet you then? o.o [a few letters, playfully F,R,I,E,N,D and a stray ? seem to pass by in a chain before him then circle around him in a downward spiral. Holds his hands up in the air to show he means no harm, and not sure what they're doing] Yeah.... that. I uh... I really appreciate it and all, but.... Oh hey, you guys know this place well, wouldn't you? Do you know where my friend Birch is? Um, he was with me here earlier. Fell down the hole? |D;;
~There comes a small chorus from a section of the room, and bit of what could only be akin to "chatter" responded to it before the letters reorganized themselves and went back to drifting around the room. A chain of them broke away from the others, clustered together and then.... vanished?~
Norman: Did I just see that right? o.O;
Persian: [rubbing her head against Norman's leg. Sir, when Birch comes back, can we please leave?[
Lugia: [He can hear you, you know. But talking to her in the normal way pokemon do really he asks her where she wants to go]
Persian: ..... [looks up at him. Anywhere away from here would be nice, particularly back to that nice old lady's rest house. She's not sure about telling him how she doesn't like him or the other strange things here as she's been treating all of this with great caution... her tail sort of wraps around Norman's leg, softly sliding along it]
Norman: Hm? o.o [kneels down to her level] What's wrong, girl?
Persian: Perrrsiaaaaan o.o [turns around like something caught her attention] Siaaaan o.o;
[And there's a strange sound, little blips and beeps and sort of a brief garbled chatter like someone trying to talk through static on the phone, but it doesn't last long and a small light appears in the corner before disappearing]
Norman: ........... [looks in the direction she's looking. Something was coming their way.]
Lugia: [again, seems to be mimicing Norman, but it does seem honestly curious as to what's coming.] Birch. o.o
Norman: [uh..... no don't think so.] How do you know?
Lugia: It is what they said. o.o
Persian: [eying him carefully for a moment because really, great dragon thing, how do you know what they're saying? She's a pokemon and all the little noises don't sound like words to her, so they most definitely shouldn't to Norman either. But, the bigger threat at hand, she shifts her gaze to the newcomer]
[What followed next left them all staring but for different reasons as out of the shadow of the corner came a brown wriggly thing that as it came into the light looked something like a tree. A very small tree with pathetic looking branches and somehow walking toward them with an awkward gait.[
Persian: [HISSSSS. If there was something off about Lugia, there is REALLY something wrong about this thing]
Norman: .... They brought me a tree |D;;;
Lugia: I am assuming that is wrong then?
Norman: Very |D;;;
Lugia: You should try to be more clear. What is your friend?
???: [very soft, and almost ghostly from a weak and raspy voice] Nor....man....?
Norman: ........ It’s not a what it’s a- [was about to explain to Lugia, but froze at that voice. He turned around but didn't see anyone] ….who…. O.O
Birch: [still soft, like the words slipped out when he exhaled] What.... happened...?
[The Sudowoodo continued to awkwardly inch closer, a branch like hand near its head as if trying to hold it. That was definitely Birch's voice even if it sounded somewhat hollow and weak at the moment. Norman could only stare, but after getting over the initial shock, he managed to snap himself out of it... somewhat and tried to come up with an answer]
Norman: …. [creeps closer] Birch? …. Is that you?
Birch: …. Yes? Why would it not be?
Norman: They brought you to me…. as a pokemon. [face palm as he realizes why] I said I was looking for “Birch” and they thought I meant the tree. Just.... [At least they didn’t bring an actual tree, then he’d have never known. Or would he? Ugh, just don’t think about that.]
Birch: .......... [he is SO out of it] Am I...? Did I hit.... my head or something?
Norman: Uhhhh…… yes. [Because why not go with that if it made the guy less concerned for what’s really going on.] Do you feel okay? You're not talking right.
Persian: [gets between the two and raise a paw, claws outstretched and threatens to swipe at the abomination]
Norman: Hey, hey, hey! Its okay, its just Birch. You know him, don't you?
Lugia: She is frightened and trying to protect you. I think it would be better if you returned her to her pokeball.
Norman: You're... probably right. Sorry, Persian, but I think its time you took a break. >.> [recalls her]
Persian: Siaaaan O.O [Turns to him at the command. I? I am the one in the wrong here? But, sir-! And in she goes.]
Birch: [And now its dark. Great. groggy. Looking up at Lugia] I'm surprised you even know what that is. |D;;;
Norman: .... Do you know who that is? [thumbing at Lugia]
Birch: All I know right now is everything is awkward and nothing makes sense. -w-
Norman: [flinches. So he did pay attention when he said they brought him back all weird]
Birch: Knowing you, you'd have me come back as Lugia just to spite me -w-
Norman: I didn't do this on purpose, I promise XD;;
Lugia: ...... [whut?] I am... spiteful? o.o
Norman: [PFFFFFFT Okay, sorry, but no. You could not handle the awesomeness that is Lugia and it’s funny to think you'd try. Although it does seem like Lugia has been showing up in the most ironic ways for all of Birch's teasing. However, if Birch seemed to be in a playful mood, he thought maybe if went along with it, it would make this less awkward. The lack of light at least helped him as he couldn’t see the twisted wooden form he was talking to.] No, if I wanted to be mean, I'd have you come back as a Beedrill. XD
Lugia: I thought we were all friends. Why are you fighting? o.o;
Norman: [turns to him] It’s BECAUSE we're friends we tend to fight. XD;; ..... [sudden thought] Not like actual fighting, that would be bad. But with us its more of just a friendly debate. I'm sure you're thinking of more large scale fighting which um.... no. We're good, I promise ^w^;;;;
Birch: You are never going to let me liv- [and while Norman is explaining that, it suddenly feels like the wind got knocked out of him, and everything starts to twist and shift and his body suddenly starts to emit that familiar glow of the hidden room. Oh... whoa now. What's happening now? Are they taking him back?! Just close his eyes and.... and it’s passed. That was.... strange. Opens eyes, and looks at his hands wondering if he's still in one piece] ....... [He can see more clearly in the dark. Strange. But more concerning at the moment: those are not hands! Those would be large metal looking spikes. Looking down at the rest of him..... and yet as strange as this should be, he's getting more annoyed with all this than anything. A MAN CAN ONLY TAKE SO MUCH WEIRDNESS IN A FEW HOURS] ....... Am I a bug right now? … I AM A BUG NOW >/
Norman: .... [looks back at him] .... [snickers horribly] Okay, I did NOT think that was actually going to happen.
Birch: Well if you have some control over this, CHANGE ME BACK! >/
Lugia: Perhaps I should leave you two alone until you find a way to amend this? For my safety and yours?
Norman: Huh? Lugia, wait! Don’t! [softens a bit to be less of a demand and more of a plea] I mean… please don’t leave yet. Or we’ll come with you.
Birch: .......... [Lugia. Did he just hear that right? He hadn’t really questioned who the third voice in the room was before, but now that he thought about it, the fact they were no longer alone should have been a concern in itself.] O.O
Norman: [goes up to Lugia and places a hand on its wing and freezes. Should he... was he allowed to touch it?]
Lugia: [also paused at the contact. It... its been so long since there's been HUMAN contact. And it seemed like a child no less. Looks back at him]
Norman: I'm sorry. O.O [backs off]
Lugia: No.... [thinking how they put it] Its alright. We are friends, are we not? I will stay... if that is what you wish.
Norman: .... [soft smile and just shakes his head] There's no need to be so formal. Here, let's start over. Birch? This is Lugia! He's.... going to be with us for a while until I can figure out how to get him home. ^w^;;; And, Lugia? [goes behind the beedrill and kind of pushes him forward to encourage him not to be so shy] This is Birch, my best friend. ^w^
Birch: [Gee, Norman, what are we? 10? But then again, if he met his childhood icon, he'd probably start acting funny too. Not that he's gonna say anything because STARE. JUST STAAAAARE INTO THE EYES OF THE DRAGON-BIRD] H-h-hello.... I've heard so much about you.... O.O;
Lugia: *yes he is a giant dragon bird, but you humans sure act weird upon speaking to him. Gives a slight bow as he did with Norman* I heard you have been seeking me. It is good to finally meet.
~ Norman thought since they were starting over with the introductions it would be a good idea to explain some things to their new friend here. Where they were, how they got here, about the puzzle, and again apologizing for dragging Lugia out here since they didn't realize what it was going to.
Considering how messed up and surreal everything had been up to this point, it didn't take Birch very long to accept he was TALKING with a legendary creature. The fact it was talking back only seemed to seal the deal that he either hit his head when the platform fell and all events since then are delusions.... or ALL of this real. Norman seemed surprisingly okay with all this too, though as Birch had stopped trying to make sense of anything, he did wonder if maybe he'd been taken to some alternate dimension instead. ~
Norman: .... Didn't I tell you it probably summoned something before we put in the last piece?
Birch: .... It was a possibility. You didn't know any more than I did XP
Norman: Its funny, I was actually thinking earlier how back home how we have so many stories of magical items and long forgotten places....
Lugia: You mean where you both hail from? o.o
Birch: Oh.... no. I'm actually not from Johto, I come from a region called Hoenn. ^w^;
Lugia: Is it far from here? o.o
Norman: Not really, its the region closest to us. Besides Kanto of course. ^w^
Norman: Not really, its the region closest to us. Besides Kanto of course. ^w^
Lugia: And you do not also come from there? o.o
Norman: I'm actually from Olivine City. It’s the closest city to your island on the mainland. ^w^;;;
Birch: I'm starting to think this would be easier if we had a map. |D;;
Norman: Or a light. We could really use a light right now |D;;;
Lugia: I am more than accustomed to traveling in the-
[All three paused as the surrounding, almost forgotten about letter pokemon began to sing again instead of their easily ignored little chimes. Some of them began to glow as they drifted toward the walls, brimming with an ethereal energy which bathed the room in a warm blue hue. The three looked around in confusion and wonder as while they could see the room clearly at least, it came with an uneasiness as once settled, the walls began to coat itself with the letters hidden behind a strange crystal like cover that seemed to move across the ceiling and floor as well.]
Norman: O.O; [gives a jump as the crystal passes under him]
Lugia: [looking down at his feet and lifts them up one at a time as the crystal somehow seemed to go on completely unconcerned that there is something standing on it. And yet the floor was just as smooth as if there was nothing there at all.] o.O
Birch: [gives a jump, much like Norman did but rather than a quick jump he finds himself sort of swaying in suspension as a soft gust whirled around him. ..... It felt like flying. Oh yeah, it was kind of easy to ignore that he is currently a BUG while they were just chatting in the dark, and while he should have half expected something like this should come naturally to him, there was some awkwardness in realizing just how instinctively something as complicated as flight seemed to come to him.] Norman.... o.o;
Norman: ...... [whispers] I'd ask about that map now, but I'm kind of scared what they'd do.
Birch: I'm really starting to think we've overstayed our time here. o.o;
Lugia: [looking around the place, some of the letters continue to drift by only now they seem to be aimlessly wandering since there is no blank space of all. Sends a message to Norman personally] Between the two of us, I would like to say.... I do not trust these "friends" of yours.
Norman: .... [looks up at him] They said they're my friends, but I couldn't even tell you what they are. I was kind of hoping you would know |D;;
Birch: [very very nervous about this. Curious though.] I hate to be a bother, but do you think they could change me back before we get out of here? I think we all agree to leave now, don't we?
Norman: What makes you think I have control over that? I just asked them if they knew where you were and instead they brought you here all... weird.
Birch: Well they seem to be responding to you. Like just now with the lighting. And you were the one to mention making me a Beedrill, which I'll admit is a nice upgrade, but I'd really like to go back to normal now. |D;;
Norman: You also keep asking me to do it, why not ask them? Neither of you guys have made a request yet. o.o
Lugia: ...."Guys"? o.o
Norman: Its just a collective term |D;;
Birch: [what do you mean he hasn't made a request. He only has the one!] ..... [sigh]
Lugia: I could use some fresh air and open water right now. -w-
Norman: Now that we can find outside. There's a huge, bay area at the foot of the mountain ^w^;
Lugia: [Mountain? Just how far has he been taken?] o.o
Birch: [sigh] I suppose you’re right. It might be better if we don't try to make any more requests of our.... "friends" here. It seems we need to be extra careful how you word it. -w- [Besides, its not like this form is currently hindering him like the last one, and seeing how things have turned out with previous requests he'd need to put some thought into this. As for Lugia.... yeah, no need to suddenly flood the place, please.]
Norman: [case and point with Birch, he didn't really specify anything and now look at him. Not to mention the lighting. He only meant like a flashlight or even a torch and if they didn't understand that who knows what would happen next.] Don't worry, we'll figure something out.... Let's head to the shore and take a breather.
[The three began to make their way toward the exit, the room still brimming with that mystical light. Little did they know, or any could have guessed, along the outside walls the crystal had continued to spread with a rapid yet silent speed. Out through the door and creeping up along the outer walls of the temple, onward to the other ruins and taking hold of the tall grass as the various pokemon that lived within it had begun to screech and flee from the danger.
Moving along the strangely lit corridor, the three couldn't help but notice that even the statues before seemed to have changed under a crystal guise. A tad unsettling really as now under the smooth glass there was something almost human about them as the the layers and ribbons that had formed over them resembled sculpted cloth and the pedestals bore large whelps like bubbles giving the place more of a lively appearance. Getting closer to the exit the walls too looked less of a display glass with the letters underneath and more of resembling cascading waterfalls with thick glossy ripples and streams which in the blue coloring added a form of otherworldly elegance. Reaching the light of the outside was almost blinding as the two teens paused to adjust and took in the whited out scenery before it all cleared.]
Lugia: Does it hurt? o.o
Norman: .... The light.... no... But..... o.o;
Lugia: [had been looking the place over. It was.... different. So very very different he wasn't sure where to begin in asking.] Yes?
Birch: ...... .... ... [look up, look down, look around, looks at companions.] Norman? I have no idea where we are anymore o.o;;;
[Indeed it didn't look like anything they would have recognized from any of their previous trips through the area. In fact, it didn't even look real for anything in the world. As far as they could see, the area had turned into a crystal paradise as the building they stepped out of was adorned in blues and deep violets, the walls covered with the same waterfall like appearance as intervals all the way around, the doorway seeming as if one flowed directly over it and parted for the gateway as the sculpted water continued along its frame. Walking a few steps there appeared to be a garden of blown glass as they were met by high, beautifully realistic grass and wildflowers shifting between shades of deep blue to violet to faded pink and almost clear appearing along each individual blade and petal. It seemed so fragile it would likely break if they tried to see how deep it went.....Though the soft pink webbed structure above them gave the appearance of a greenhouse, which meant it likely didn't go very far and was just for looks. As utterly disturbing as it would have been to find themselves trapped in a world of glass, walking away from the garden revealed a much more welcoming site.
While the "greenhouse" did seem to continue over the next visible building of the ruins and likely over all the ruins they couldn't see, they realized that looking through the glass they could see outside was a massive lake that likely expanded for miles and a thick green forest separated the city from the lake below. To the lake, or explore the ruins... which really didn't look much like ruins anymore? They promised the lake first, so it was only right they figure out a way out of this place... there had to be a way to get outside, right? Bird-pokemon could be heard somewhere in the greenhouse, noisy things that they were it was debatable if they were singing or warning each other... though even then it was more likely they were warning of the new comers to their safe haven.]
Norman: Do you think this is what the place looked like in its heyday? o.o
Birch: If it did, do you think this is something those letter pokemon wanted us to see or have we actually gone back in time?
Lugia: [listening to birds.... tiny birds from the sounds of it, but its hard to make out what they're saying. It was probably just typical chatter like he'd hear back home only with birds instead of tentacool going "SWIM AWAY! O.O" when he was passing through or krabby warning others of seel on the hunt. He could vaguely here a larger voice saying something about food.... follow... trees.... The woods?]
Norman: Weird as everything else has been, I.... can't buy time travel here. Celebi, yes, but that's special. If these things are just your normal psychic type or something, I don't think they're capable of that. Besides, if we were in the past, shouldn't we have seen someone by now?
Birch: So the real question is, are we even actually seeing this? Because I know psychics love to mess with you. [looks at Lugia] No offense. ^w^;;
Lugia: [telling him no for... what?] I am being offensive? o.o
Birch: ...No I am.... Its a phrase, I don't mean to offend you if I talk bad about psychics |D;;
Lugia: Each psychic is different. If you were to talk about our hosts here then it should not pertain to me. [seems to be looking at something farther off, though after a moment goes on] It does not seem that they have followed us outside but instead are keeping to the ruins. There is an energy here... there are likely more at home in the other buildings as well.
Norman: .... [wow he can tell all that from here? Well, as Birch pointed out Lugia is psychic, but... that's still so cool] That's okay, I'm not sure I'd want them following us anyway. I guess that means out here we can actually talk. Can you tell anything else about the place? Like an exit?
Lugia: [nods as he'd been listening to the Xatu and chicks and... something else. He couldn't tell what but there was something else and those voices echoed as if in a tunnel] Follow me.
And with that thought, Norman was getting impatient.... and a little worried. On the one hand though, Birch said he could see the ladder from the fallen platform, that didn't mean it was close by. Likewise, he didn't know how far the ladder was from the door in the wall either. A tad flustered, the League hopeful decided to take a seat by the door to wait. If Birch tried to holler to him from either the wall or the alter, he could hear him from here.]
Norman: [But still, dammit, Birch, he could be using this time for training! .... Slight chuckle to himself before he leaned against the door, tilting his head upward at the oddly colored section marked "Lugia". Really he couldn't blame his friend for all this when he was just as curious and just as responsible for that puzzle. Gives a shiver and pulls the light close. Thinking] Hmmm..... Lugia.... I wonder what it means? [looking down the hall] I mean, it’s possible that if this place is so old, it might have come here as roost before the Ecruteak Towers were built....
[He gives another shiver as the cold stone against his bare skin was really not helping. Instead he continued to try to ignore it as his mind wandered on the subject. Thinking it over, it didn't seem so strange after all. A small city was built in the mountains with the ocean at its feet... all of the pokemon statues that held pieces were water types, which could have been because of Lugia and its association with water, but Kabutops, Omastar, Slowking..... Rhydon was the exception, but it could learn Surf couldn't it? If memory served him correctly, they learned that once upon a time the ocean levels were much higher too so maybe the shore came right up to the town here. Maybe Lugia would have come..... What was that?]
Norman: [sits up when he hears a soft bell like chime.] .... [starts to get up. Maybe he had dozed off there in the dark, the altar had been blocking his view of the light outside but.... There it is again. That..... that was weird. Brushing himself off, he started to move passed the altar to try to get a better look.]
[There it is again! For a moment he thought he saw some, small like a bat, and yet it just drifted across the light of the tunnel. There comes a soft chime somewhere nearby as well.... He starts to follow it to see what it was, carefully placing a hand on the first pokeball in the line just in case. He doesn't see it any more though, and another chime suddenly but softly comes from behind him.]
Norman: [turns around] Hello? o.o
[There's a few little rings this time, one after another as if the noise is bouncing off of them. But it there’s no denying, the noise was getting louder]
Norman: [cautiously looking around as the long tunnel gives an echo with the chimes. Okay, this is spooky] ..... [shining his light around. The beam flickered a moment, so he gave the light a shake. It came back on, but the light was now dim. Great, power going out] ...... Birch? Are you back yet?
~The various little chimes, not really chimes now as they seemed to be coming together like music... singing.... the light faded out. So subtly it was as if it were a candle blown out by the wind. A shiver went down Norman's spine. This..... he could always resort to having a pokemon use Flash, that was his plan in the first place, but there seemed to be such a sense of mixed wonder and dread as place suddenly seemed to be a very arid cave setting. Don't say it... don't think it... it can't be.... can it?~
Norman: [picks up a pokeball again, looking around the place as he could hear something, a soft rumble near the altar like something very very large breathing deeply. Like something had been awoken. ... The altar..... He wasn't one to get scared so easily, but his voice trembled as he thought maybe, just maybe that noise was from below. Thinking* Birch, please please please tell me that's you. *His voice shaking, though trying to sound playful] I could really use a friend right now~
[A few of the long winded chimes, something of a tuning fork ring with the loud start slowly fading as it held the note was the response. .... And then the sound that was definitely the platform moving.]
Norman: ..... O.O [Wait the platform is moving!] Birch?! Answer me! Are you there?! [If he's not on that platform, he's gonna be trapped down there. Trying to rush to the altar. He hadn't realized he had gotten so far from it.] Persian, give us a light!
Persian: [seems to leap from the pokeball, sensing her master's urgency. She lands gracefully with a powerful stance ahead of him and charges into the darkness, fur bristling as she gives off a gentle glow quickly illuminating the area.]
[Norman skids in front of the alter, nearly falling backwards as he immediately falls back at the very sight. The platform had been raised, and there on the altar, wings outspread at the sight of an oncoming attack, was a large, white, dragon like creature with sharp blue streaks lining its back. It gave a startled but very distinct and threatening cry as the teen fell to the ground and continued to back away as best as he could.]
Norman: [.... How in the... what in the... just... it can't be... how.... it’s...] L-l-lugia....
[His heart was still racing, pounding so hard it almost hurt, and his chest heaved as he tried to catch his breath. The great beast gave a cry again as if demanding he stand up and face it.]
Lugia: ......... [eyes narrow, but seeing that the boy didn't seem to want to hurt it, Persian just standing there on guard in case of an attack and both seeming as startled as anything.... folds its wings in and lowers its head to get a better look at the tiny human scurrying to his feet] Are you the one that summoned me?
Norman: [it.... its mouth didn't really move. In fact, it should have been a comfort to see it close its mouth as it meant it wasn't trying to eat him, but staring into those deep grey eyes, almost no light reflecting in them....It... just... talked? Did he hear that right? He turns a wary glance at the panther standing beside him, though it seemed unlikely the giant was talking to her. Seemed she wasn’t very happy to see the dragon but he could hardly blame her.] Y-y-yes....
Lugia: [backing away, slightly, with a bit of caution and annoyance]
Norman: [his breathing is finally coming back at least, but his voice still wants to escape him] I, I, I'm s-sorry.... I just... I'm really really sorry, I was just l-looking for a f-friend... [and his voice slowly faded on that note. Why was he telling GREAT GUARDIAN OF THE SEA this? Yes he was looking for his friend, but it’s not like it'd care to hear of some human's problems. Come on Norman, you finally have a chance to meet the LEGEND and forgot what you wanted to tell him]
Lugia: ....... [lets that linger in the air a moment. Honestly not sure what to make of the request. In fact, Its’ a tad confused, but seems to ease up in its’ stance as the voice comes again almost otherworldly yet much more gentle.] A friend? [the creature, much to its’ human companion's surprise, gave a bow, lowering its head in something of respect] .... If that is what you wish.
[Norman wasn't sure what to make of the creature's actions and seemed even more boggled by its words. As you wish, “he”, judging by its voice, had said. They had summoned it "he" had said. The teen couldn't help but feel a mixture of shock and sudden uncertainty about this. Did he... have control over Lugia simply because of the puzzle ritual? Something about that seemed wrong, and there came a sinking feeling in wondering if the ancient peoples had done the same. If they had.... was that why Lugia seemed so angry at first? What did they make him do?]
Lugia: Your majesty-
Norman: [well that just shocked him out of any and all trains of thought] What, what? o.O [shakes hands to cut off that statement right there] I'm not anything like that! Honest! But... [looking at the altar] I guess it would normally have been the leaders that called you, huh? o.o
Lugia: I am not used to being called.
Norman: I... can't say I'm used to this either. I'd send you back but um... I'm not sure how.
Lugia: You said you called me.... as a friend. Then as long as I may be your friend, I would be happy to stay, if that would make you happy.
Norman: [made sense... kind of. Which if Lugia was waiting for him to say "GET OUT, YOU'RE NO LONGER MY FRIEND" or something, they could be here a while. Honestly if he could befriend the creature and figure a way to allow it to leave without forcing it to would be wonderful. But...] It’s the most amazing feeling in the world right now. I would love for you stay, if you don't mind.
Lugia: Why would I mind? [really, he is completely and utterly confused by you, little one. He's been worshiped, he's been hated, he's been made into legends but for someone to just, you know... wanna hang out is a foreign concept. Question is, do you mind seeing just exactly what he is] o.o
Norman: .... [this.... is still SO weird. But that quiet tone somehow made him smile] You might be here a while, is all. ^w^;;; [shifts a bit nervously] And.... you can call me Norman.
Lugia: [that much he can understand, and gives a nod to show so] And you called me....... "Birch"? o.o [this.... again. You are a very very strange little human.]
Norman: [eyes go wide a sec, and normally he would have burst out laughing, but he didn't want to seem insulting. Covers his mouth a moment to hide it as best as he can] Nooooo no no no, you misunderstood. [ahem Birch is the friend I was looking for when you showed up.
Lugia: .... I see.
Norman: [oh now he's done it] Not that I wasn't looking for you! Its just, Birch and I have been traveling together, going to all the places people said you used to go, reading up on the stories. I want you here, I really do, but after we solved the puzzle on the alter-
Lugia: [puzzle? altar? Looks back at what Norman is motioning to. There is a strange picture there which seems to bear some resemblance to himself. How strange] o.o
Norman: -he disappeared. I know he can't be far, but... I'm getting worried.
Persian: [rubbing against him. I'm worried too, sir, there's something strange about this place.] Siaaaan o.o [and that pokemon.... Lugia... there's something not right about him. Sir?] Siaaaan? [sits and looks up at him, the tip of her tail curling up and rolling out in a nervous fashion. He doesn't seem to feel the same way, but he just kind of started stroking her out of habit like he's not paying attention right now*
[the singing had been going on rather softly, and when Norman began to look around, he noticed where it was coming from... possibly. The letters on the walls, strange black characters with large white eyes somewhere in the design, were drifting aimlessly from one wall to the next. Needing to spread their non-existent wings or simply out of boredom, it was hard to tell. When one moved, another slipped into its place. The temple.... it was alive!]
Persian: [watching them closely, and gives a hiss as one drifts by]
Norman: Its okay, girl.... [stroking her behind the ear]
Persian: [oh... oh right there...] ~w~ .... o.o [can't shake her uneasiness with those things]
Norman: What... are those...? Are they pokemon? o.o
Lugia: [watching them as well, but it seems more of like copying the other two] They say they, too, are friends.
Norman: [oooooookay? Slightly amused but still weirded out] Um..... nice to meet you then? o.o [a few letters, playfully F,R,I,E,N,D and a stray ? seem to pass by in a chain before him then circle around him in a downward spiral. Holds his hands up in the air to show he means no harm, and not sure what they're doing] Yeah.... that. I uh... I really appreciate it and all, but.... Oh hey, you guys know this place well, wouldn't you? Do you know where my friend Birch is? Um, he was with me here earlier. Fell down the hole? |D;;
~There comes a small chorus from a section of the room, and bit of what could only be akin to "chatter" responded to it before the letters reorganized themselves and went back to drifting around the room. A chain of them broke away from the others, clustered together and then.... vanished?~
Norman: Did I just see that right? o.O;
Persian: [rubbing her head against Norman's leg. Sir, when Birch comes back, can we please leave?[
Lugia: [He can hear you, you know. But talking to her in the normal way pokemon do really he asks her where she wants to go]
Persian: ..... [looks up at him. Anywhere away from here would be nice, particularly back to that nice old lady's rest house. She's not sure about telling him how she doesn't like him or the other strange things here as she's been treating all of this with great caution... her tail sort of wraps around Norman's leg, softly sliding along it]
Norman: Hm? o.o [kneels down to her level] What's wrong, girl?
Persian: Perrrsiaaaaan o.o [turns around like something caught her attention] Siaaaan o.o;
[And there's a strange sound, little blips and beeps and sort of a brief garbled chatter like someone trying to talk through static on the phone, but it doesn't last long and a small light appears in the corner before disappearing]
Norman: ........... [looks in the direction she's looking. Something was coming their way.]
Lugia: [again, seems to be mimicing Norman, but it does seem honestly curious as to what's coming.] Birch. o.o
Norman: [uh..... no don't think so.] How do you know?
Lugia: It is what they said. o.o
Persian: [eying him carefully for a moment because really, great dragon thing, how do you know what they're saying? She's a pokemon and all the little noises don't sound like words to her, so they most definitely shouldn't to Norman either. But, the bigger threat at hand, she shifts her gaze to the newcomer]
[What followed next left them all staring but for different reasons as out of the shadow of the corner came a brown wriggly thing that as it came into the light looked something like a tree. A very small tree with pathetic looking branches and somehow walking toward them with an awkward gait.[
Persian: [HISSSSS. If there was something off about Lugia, there is REALLY something wrong about this thing]
Norman: .... They brought me a tree |D;;;
Lugia: I am assuming that is wrong then?
Norman: Very |D;;;
Lugia: You should try to be more clear. What is your friend?
???: [very soft, and almost ghostly from a weak and raspy voice] Nor....man....?
Norman: ........ It’s not a what it’s a- [was about to explain to Lugia, but froze at that voice. He turned around but didn't see anyone] ….who…. O.O
Birch: [still soft, like the words slipped out when he exhaled] What.... happened...?
[The Sudowoodo continued to awkwardly inch closer, a branch like hand near its head as if trying to hold it. That was definitely Birch's voice even if it sounded somewhat hollow and weak at the moment. Norman could only stare, but after getting over the initial shock, he managed to snap himself out of it... somewhat and tried to come up with an answer]
Norman: …. [creeps closer] Birch? …. Is that you?
Birch: …. Yes? Why would it not be?
Norman: They brought you to me…. as a pokemon. [face palm as he realizes why] I said I was looking for “Birch” and they thought I meant the tree. Just.... [At least they didn’t bring an actual tree, then he’d have never known. Or would he? Ugh, just don’t think about that.]
Birch: .......... [he is SO out of it] Am I...? Did I hit.... my head or something?
Norman: Uhhhh…… yes. [Because why not go with that if it made the guy less concerned for what’s really going on.] Do you feel okay? You're not talking right.
Persian: [gets between the two and raise a paw, claws outstretched and threatens to swipe at the abomination]
Norman: Hey, hey, hey! Its okay, its just Birch. You know him, don't you?
Lugia: She is frightened and trying to protect you. I think it would be better if you returned her to her pokeball.
Norman: You're... probably right. Sorry, Persian, but I think its time you took a break. >.> [recalls her]
Persian: Siaaaan O.O [Turns to him at the command. I? I am the one in the wrong here? But, sir-! And in she goes.]
Birch: [And now its dark. Great. groggy. Looking up at Lugia] I'm surprised you even know what that is. |D;;;
Norman: .... Do you know who that is? [thumbing at Lugia]
Birch: All I know right now is everything is awkward and nothing makes sense. -w-
Norman: [flinches. So he did pay attention when he said they brought him back all weird]
Birch: Knowing you, you'd have me come back as Lugia just to spite me -w-
Norman: I didn't do this on purpose, I promise XD;;
Lugia: ...... [whut?] I am... spiteful? o.o
Norman: [PFFFFFFT Okay, sorry, but no. You could not handle the awesomeness that is Lugia and it’s funny to think you'd try. Although it does seem like Lugia has been showing up in the most ironic ways for all of Birch's teasing. However, if Birch seemed to be in a playful mood, he thought maybe if went along with it, it would make this less awkward. The lack of light at least helped him as he couldn’t see the twisted wooden form he was talking to.] No, if I wanted to be mean, I'd have you come back as a Beedrill. XD
Lugia: I thought we were all friends. Why are you fighting? o.o;
Norman: [turns to him] It’s BECAUSE we're friends we tend to fight. XD;; ..... [sudden thought] Not like actual fighting, that would be bad. But with us its more of just a friendly debate. I'm sure you're thinking of more large scale fighting which um.... no. We're good, I promise ^w^;;;;
Birch: You are never going to let me liv- [and while Norman is explaining that, it suddenly feels like the wind got knocked out of him, and everything starts to twist and shift and his body suddenly starts to emit that familiar glow of the hidden room. Oh... whoa now. What's happening now? Are they taking him back?! Just close his eyes and.... and it’s passed. That was.... strange. Opens eyes, and looks at his hands wondering if he's still in one piece] ....... [He can see more clearly in the dark. Strange. But more concerning at the moment: those are not hands! Those would be large metal looking spikes. Looking down at the rest of him..... and yet as strange as this should be, he's getting more annoyed with all this than anything. A MAN CAN ONLY TAKE SO MUCH WEIRDNESS IN A FEW HOURS] ....... Am I a bug right now? … I AM A BUG NOW >/
Norman: .... [looks back at him] .... [snickers horribly] Okay, I did NOT think that was actually going to happen.
Birch: Well if you have some control over this, CHANGE ME BACK! >/
Lugia: Perhaps I should leave you two alone until you find a way to amend this? For my safety and yours?
Norman: Huh? Lugia, wait! Don’t! [softens a bit to be less of a demand and more of a plea] I mean… please don’t leave yet. Or we’ll come with you.
Birch: .......... [Lugia. Did he just hear that right? He hadn’t really questioned who the third voice in the room was before, but now that he thought about it, the fact they were no longer alone should have been a concern in itself.] O.O
Norman: [goes up to Lugia and places a hand on its wing and freezes. Should he... was he allowed to touch it?]
Lugia: [also paused at the contact. It... its been so long since there's been HUMAN contact. And it seemed like a child no less. Looks back at him]
Norman: I'm sorry. O.O [backs off]
Lugia: No.... [thinking how they put it] Its alright. We are friends, are we not? I will stay... if that is what you wish.
Norman: .... [soft smile and just shakes his head] There's no need to be so formal. Here, let's start over. Birch? This is Lugia! He's.... going to be with us for a while until I can figure out how to get him home. ^w^;;; And, Lugia? [goes behind the beedrill and kind of pushes him forward to encourage him not to be so shy] This is Birch, my best friend. ^w^
Birch: [Gee, Norman, what are we? 10? But then again, if he met his childhood icon, he'd probably start acting funny too. Not that he's gonna say anything because STARE. JUST STAAAAARE INTO THE EYES OF THE DRAGON-BIRD] H-h-hello.... I've heard so much about you.... O.O;
Lugia: *yes he is a giant dragon bird, but you humans sure act weird upon speaking to him. Gives a slight bow as he did with Norman* I heard you have been seeking me. It is good to finally meet.
~ Norman thought since they were starting over with the introductions it would be a good idea to explain some things to their new friend here. Where they were, how they got here, about the puzzle, and again apologizing for dragging Lugia out here since they didn't realize what it was going to.
Considering how messed up and surreal everything had been up to this point, it didn't take Birch very long to accept he was TALKING with a legendary creature. The fact it was talking back only seemed to seal the deal that he either hit his head when the platform fell and all events since then are delusions.... or ALL of this real. Norman seemed surprisingly okay with all this too, though as Birch had stopped trying to make sense of anything, he did wonder if maybe he'd been taken to some alternate dimension instead. ~
Norman: .... Didn't I tell you it probably summoned something before we put in the last piece?
Birch: .... It was a possibility. You didn't know any more than I did XP
Norman: Its funny, I was actually thinking earlier how back home how we have so many stories of magical items and long forgotten places....
Lugia: You mean where you both hail from? o.o
Birch: Oh.... no. I'm actually not from Johto, I come from a region called Hoenn. ^w^;
Lugia: Is it far from here? o.o
Norman: Not really, its the region closest to us. Besides Kanto of course. ^w^
Norman: Not really, its the region closest to us. Besides Kanto of course. ^w^
Lugia: And you do not also come from there? o.o
Norman: I'm actually from Olivine City. It’s the closest city to your island on the mainland. ^w^;;;
Birch: I'm starting to think this would be easier if we had a map. |D;;
Norman: Or a light. We could really use a light right now |D;;;
Lugia: I am more than accustomed to traveling in the-
[All three paused as the surrounding, almost forgotten about letter pokemon began to sing again instead of their easily ignored little chimes. Some of them began to glow as they drifted toward the walls, brimming with an ethereal energy which bathed the room in a warm blue hue. The three looked around in confusion and wonder as while they could see the room clearly at least, it came with an uneasiness as once settled, the walls began to coat itself with the letters hidden behind a strange crystal like cover that seemed to move across the ceiling and floor as well.]
Norman: O.O; [gives a jump as the crystal passes under him]
Lugia: [looking down at his feet and lifts them up one at a time as the crystal somehow seemed to go on completely unconcerned that there is something standing on it. And yet the floor was just as smooth as if there was nothing there at all.] o.O
Birch: [gives a jump, much like Norman did but rather than a quick jump he finds himself sort of swaying in suspension as a soft gust whirled around him. ..... It felt like flying. Oh yeah, it was kind of easy to ignore that he is currently a BUG while they were just chatting in the dark, and while he should have half expected something like this should come naturally to him, there was some awkwardness in realizing just how instinctively something as complicated as flight seemed to come to him.] Norman.... o.o;
Norman: ...... [whispers] I'd ask about that map now, but I'm kind of scared what they'd do.
Birch: I'm really starting to think we've overstayed our time here. o.o;
Lugia: [looking around the place, some of the letters continue to drift by only now they seem to be aimlessly wandering since there is no blank space of all. Sends a message to Norman personally] Between the two of us, I would like to say.... I do not trust these "friends" of yours.
Norman: .... [looks up at him] They said they're my friends, but I couldn't even tell you what they are. I was kind of hoping you would know |D;;
Birch: [very very nervous about this. Curious though.] I hate to be a bother, but do you think they could change me back before we get out of here? I think we all agree to leave now, don't we?
Norman: What makes you think I have control over that? I just asked them if they knew where you were and instead they brought you here all... weird.
Birch: Well they seem to be responding to you. Like just now with the lighting. And you were the one to mention making me a Beedrill, which I'll admit is a nice upgrade, but I'd really like to go back to normal now. |D;;
Norman: You also keep asking me to do it, why not ask them? Neither of you guys have made a request yet. o.o
Lugia: ...."Guys"? o.o
Norman: Its just a collective term |D;;
Birch: [what do you mean he hasn't made a request. He only has the one!] ..... [sigh]
Lugia: I could use some fresh air and open water right now. -w-
Norman: Now that we can find outside. There's a huge, bay area at the foot of the mountain ^w^;
Lugia: [Mountain? Just how far has he been taken?] o.o
Birch: [sigh] I suppose you’re right. It might be better if we don't try to make any more requests of our.... "friends" here. It seems we need to be extra careful how you word it. -w- [Besides, its not like this form is currently hindering him like the last one, and seeing how things have turned out with previous requests he'd need to put some thought into this. As for Lugia.... yeah, no need to suddenly flood the place, please.]
Norman: [case and point with Birch, he didn't really specify anything and now look at him. Not to mention the lighting. He only meant like a flashlight or even a torch and if they didn't understand that who knows what would happen next.] Don't worry, we'll figure something out.... Let's head to the shore and take a breather.
[The three began to make their way toward the exit, the room still brimming with that mystical light. Little did they know, or any could have guessed, along the outside walls the crystal had continued to spread with a rapid yet silent speed. Out through the door and creeping up along the outer walls of the temple, onward to the other ruins and taking hold of the tall grass as the various pokemon that lived within it had begun to screech and flee from the danger.
Moving along the strangely lit corridor, the three couldn't help but notice that even the statues before seemed to have changed under a crystal guise. A tad unsettling really as now under the smooth glass there was something almost human about them as the the layers and ribbons that had formed over them resembled sculpted cloth and the pedestals bore large whelps like bubbles giving the place more of a lively appearance. Getting closer to the exit the walls too looked less of a display glass with the letters underneath and more of resembling cascading waterfalls with thick glossy ripples and streams which in the blue coloring added a form of otherworldly elegance. Reaching the light of the outside was almost blinding as the two teens paused to adjust and took in the whited out scenery before it all cleared.]
Lugia: Does it hurt? o.o
Norman: .... The light.... no... But..... o.o;
Lugia: [had been looking the place over. It was.... different. So very very different he wasn't sure where to begin in asking.] Yes?
Birch: ...... .... ... [look up, look down, look around, looks at companions.] Norman? I have no idea where we are anymore o.o;;;
[Indeed it didn't look like anything they would have recognized from any of their previous trips through the area. In fact, it didn't even look real for anything in the world. As far as they could see, the area had turned into a crystal paradise as the building they stepped out of was adorned in blues and deep violets, the walls covered with the same waterfall like appearance as intervals all the way around, the doorway seeming as if one flowed directly over it and parted for the gateway as the sculpted water continued along its frame. Walking a few steps there appeared to be a garden of blown glass as they were met by high, beautifully realistic grass and wildflowers shifting between shades of deep blue to violet to faded pink and almost clear appearing along each individual blade and petal. It seemed so fragile it would likely break if they tried to see how deep it went.....Though the soft pink webbed structure above them gave the appearance of a greenhouse, which meant it likely didn't go very far and was just for looks. As utterly disturbing as it would have been to find themselves trapped in a world of glass, walking away from the garden revealed a much more welcoming site.
While the "greenhouse" did seem to continue over the next visible building of the ruins and likely over all the ruins they couldn't see, they realized that looking through the glass they could see outside was a massive lake that likely expanded for miles and a thick green forest separated the city from the lake below. To the lake, or explore the ruins... which really didn't look much like ruins anymore? They promised the lake first, so it was only right they figure out a way out of this place... there had to be a way to get outside, right? Bird-pokemon could be heard somewhere in the greenhouse, noisy things that they were it was debatable if they were singing or warning each other... though even then it was more likely they were warning of the new comers to their safe haven.]
Norman: Do you think this is what the place looked like in its heyday? o.o
Birch: If it did, do you think this is something those letter pokemon wanted us to see or have we actually gone back in time?
Lugia: [listening to birds.... tiny birds from the sounds of it, but its hard to make out what they're saying. It was probably just typical chatter like he'd hear back home only with birds instead of tentacool going "SWIM AWAY! O.O" when he was passing through or krabby warning others of seel on the hunt. He could vaguely here a larger voice saying something about food.... follow... trees.... The woods?]
Norman: Weird as everything else has been, I.... can't buy time travel here. Celebi, yes, but that's special. If these things are just your normal psychic type or something, I don't think they're capable of that. Besides, if we were in the past, shouldn't we have seen someone by now?
Birch: So the real question is, are we even actually seeing this? Because I know psychics love to mess with you. [looks at Lugia] No offense. ^w^;;
Lugia: [telling him no for... what?] I am being offensive? o.o
Birch: ...No I am.... Its a phrase, I don't mean to offend you if I talk bad about psychics |D;;
Lugia: Each psychic is different. If you were to talk about our hosts here then it should not pertain to me. [seems to be looking at something farther off, though after a moment goes on] It does not seem that they have followed us outside but instead are keeping to the ruins. There is an energy here... there are likely more at home in the other buildings as well.
Norman: .... [wow he can tell all that from here? Well, as Birch pointed out Lugia is psychic, but... that's still so cool] That's okay, I'm not sure I'd want them following us anyway. I guess that means out here we can actually talk. Can you tell anything else about the place? Like an exit?
Lugia: [nods as he'd been listening to the Xatu and chicks and... something else. He couldn't tell what but there was something else and those voices echoed as if in a tunnel] Follow me.
