capitald | [video/action, backdated to last night] Chapter 1;

Action for Rocket HQ;

[Having taken the time to assess the situation, Ringabel's come to several conclusions. One, this is not Luxendarc. In fact, judging by some of the conversations he's had, he's in an entirely different world, as are others in his position. By now, he's combed through the Rocket manual. Evidently, he's been drafted into some sort of criminal organization and will be expected to wear that ghastly uniform and conduct theft or risk being reported to the authorities.

It's not what he anticipated. The other newcomers seem to have arrived elsewhere, left to their own devices. What's more, they have but one of these... Pokémon, which he can only assume stands for "pocket monsters."

Before leaving his room, he spends a few more moments skimming the manual, glancing at the network, and jotting down a brief note in his journal. He's spent enough time in this room, and there are still countless unanswered questions weighing on his mind.

So, upon changing into his uniform, Ringabel departs, trailed by a Vulpix and prodded by a Pawniard. A creature resembling a dark knight, of all things.

With his journal in hand, he wanders the halls, jotting down a map as he rounds the corners. His eyes occasionally drift from the page toward any other Rockets within the vicinity.]

If they intend to train me, then they should have at least provided directions...

Action for Goldenrod, leading to Video;

[Some time after acquainting himself with the Rocket base, Ringabel decided to slip back into his more comfortable attire and sneak out for a bit of exploring. Unfortunately, the hustle and bustle of the city's a bit overwhelming at first, with its towering buildings composed of metal and glass, its busy streets, and constantly moving crowds. The lights remind him of Florem, but on a much grander scale. There's so much to see, from the Radio Tower behind him to the various shops and restaurants he passes as he works his way toward the outskirts. The rain leaves a bit to be desired, especially without a jacket or at least an umbrella.

So, what to do? Before he goes about making any sort of recording, he wedges his way through the crowd, looking for anyone who might extend a helping hand, however briefly.]

Ah, excuse me! Could I have a moment of your time?

[Whether or not he receives assistance, he'll later wind up purchasing an umbrella and spending a few moments restyling his hair. After that, he makes his way down to the route south of the city. Once there, he turns on the PokéGear. Despite the weather, he greets the camera with a smile.]

Good evening! My name is Ringabel, and it seems I'll be joining you all on this Pokémon journey.

[He pauses.]

I've done a bit of reading, so I already know the gist of the situation. However, I do have a few questions.

[Reaching into his pocket, he digs out a black journal marked with the letter D and flips to an image of three young warriors. Pretend the surrounding images aren't there.]

First, I'm looking for a few friends of mine. Their names are Edea, Tiz, and Agnès, and if you hear anyone grumbling "mrgrgr" or shouting "unacceptable," then chances are, they're nearby.

[There's also a chance that they haven't arrived in this world, which is... worrying and leads him to his next question.]

Second, what becomes of our worlds in our absence? And is there any significance behind the Pokémon we've received?

[He could leave it at that, but in true Ringabel fashion there's one more question on his mind.]

Last but certainly not least, what can you tell me about the women of this world?

[With that, the feed clicks off, though those in the area may spot him hovering around the route a bit longer before he slips into the Pokémon Center.]

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

[ There's an unmistakable flush on her cheeks now, and she--a habit--looks down slightly. But maybe there's a tiny, tiny smile there, too. ]

I... I'm glad you think so. Thank you.

You're quite welcome.

[Ah, and what a lovely little blush. Perhaps he should offer further encouragement.]

Has anyone told you that you have a lovely smile?

[ Oh dear. Now the blush is a little deeper, and she holds Mini a little tighter--not tight enough to hurt, of course--as she tries to find a reply. ]

N-no, I... can't say anyone has. [ What are compliments?? How do you take them?? ]

Really? But I see it clear as day! Your smile, snowy complexion, and golden locks compliment each other perfectly!

[Surely there's someone else who's recognized her beauty, and if not, well, the boys in this world may need to get their eyes checked.]

[ Uh oh. He seems upset. Naminé frowns a bit, more than just slightly. And maybe she's still blushing, too. ]

I-is it... really such a big deal?

It's surprising! You'd think that the boys would be lining up to spend time with you. Has no one ever asked you on a date?

[If not, hmm... Well, something to contemplate for the future. She's a bit young for him, but surely she has friends closer to her age.]

A date? No, I... can't say anyone has...

[ Actually, she's very sure no one ever has. Why would they? It's not like she saw many people in the castle, and she really hasn't been here long... ]

Hmm. Well, never lose hope! I'm sure there's someone out there just waiting to sweep you off your feet.

[It's said with another smile, genuine if a bit amused.]

I'm... not so sure about that.

[ She says it with a bit of a sad smile. She'd had a hero, once, but it had been a lie. ]

[He sees that smile, and for a moment, a frown creeps across his lips.]

But what makes you say that?

[Surely there's a reason for it.]

[ There's a bit of discomfort in the way she hesitates and shifts slightly. ]

Well... because it's just true.

[ It's hard to think otherwise when that's nearly all you've heard your entire existence. ]

How can you be sure? This is a brand new world! Perhaps it'll surprise you.

[It's certainly better to hope than to give up. That she's so resigned is downright heartbreaking. What could have happened to make her this way?]

[ His optimism... it reminds her of Sora's. ]

I... I can try to hope. [ She still sounds unsure. It seems impossible, almost, that it would surprise her. ]

Well, if you need added assurance, then I'll share in your hope! Double it, if necessary.

[He realizes this all sounds rather sentimental, but his words are practically glowing in confidence.]

I... [ That is certainly a blush there. And it's quietly that she says, ]

Thank you.

[video/action, backdated to last night] Chapter 1;

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