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POSTED ON Aug 30, 2023 13:08:49 GMT

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[attr="class","nikolaj1"]

[attr="class","text"]

The STEAM ERUPTION pushed Garchomp back enough that another BULLDOZE would not reach the red creature. Nikolaj frowned, glad that his Pokémon was not weak to Water moves, for the power behind the attacks was immense.[break][break]

"We're hanging in there," he said to Genevieve.[break][break]

Garchomp surged forward with TAKE DOWN, but her opponent retaliated quickly with HYDRO PUMP. The strength of the counter brought Garchomp to her knees. Between that blow and the injuries sustained from such a reckless maneuver, she was barely hanging in there.[break][break]

Nikolaj knew a precarious situation when he saw one. "We need to get out of here," he said, a sharpness in his voice that hadn't been there before. "Get back on Steelix."[break][break]

He recalled Garchomp just as the castle's guard attempted to take her out with STOMP. Steelix lowered her head to the ground, and Nikolaj squatted with fingers laced together to give Genevieve a boost up again.

[attr="class","ooc"]

[attr="class","tag"]Genevieve Cromwell

[break]

NOTES

⬥ Mission: Into the Wild

[attr="class","pkmn"]

Steelix ♀ | Sheer Force | Dig, Dragon Breath, Ice Fang, Iron Tail, Psychic Fangs, Thunder Fang | Steelixite

Garchomp ♀ | Sand Veil | Bite, Bulldoze, Dragon Claw, Sandstorm, Slash, Take Down

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POSTED ON Aug 29, 2023 16:15:42 GMT

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Genevieve's reassurance and encouragement to 'go all-out' earned her a sideways glance from Nikolaj. She understood, then, that his Garchomp was only fighting at partial ability.[break][break]

The old man nodded, just once. "Garchomp, you heard the girl."[break][break]

The dragon roared in response, summoning a vicious SANDSTORM. Dirt and sand whirled on a howling wind, biting into the strange red Pokémon and Genevieve's Abomasnow. Nikolaj, at least, was spared thanks to the great bulk of his Steelix blocking the storm.[break][break]

Then, stomping his clawed foot against the ground, Garchomp struck at the nearest enemy with BULLDOZE.

[attr="class","ooc"]

[attr="class","tag"]Genevieve Cromwell

[break]

NOTES

⬥ Mission: Into the Wild

[attr="class","pkmn"]

Steelix ♀ | Sheer Force | Dig, Dragon Breath, Ice Fang, Iron Tail, Psychic Fangs, Thunder Fang | Steelixite

[attr="class","credit"]

MADE BY GUNSMILE

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POSTED ON Aug 22, 2023 14:55:20 GMT

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Steelix lowered her head so that Nikolaj and Genevieve could hop off, but instead of joining the fray, she remained with them. Part of her job was to protect the humans with her massive bulk; another part was to carry them away if escape was necessary.[break][break]

Meanwhile, Nikolaj released one of the two Pokéballs he had chosen. His Garchomp emerged in a flash of light, ready to attack.[break][break]

Though he was unfamiliar with the red Pokémon, red usually meant fire, and Fire was weak to Ground.[break][break]

Unfortunately, the presence of Genevieve's Absol meant Garchomp couldn't use SANDSTORM. But no matter. The Dragon-type had other tricks up her sleeve.[break][break]

Launching itself at the second Volcanion, Garchomp started off the battle with BITE. Her opponent screamed in agony, but made a quick retaliation with SCALD, forcing Garchomp to retreat several feet.[break][break]

"Oh, it's a Fire-type and a Water-type?" Nikolaj murmured under his breath.

[attr="class","ooc"]

[attr="class","tag"]Genevieve Cromwell

[break]

NOTES

⬥ Mission: Into the Wild

[attr="class","pkmn"]

Steelix ♀ | Sheer Force | Dig, Dragon Breath, Ice Fang, Iron Tail, Psychic Fangs, Thunder Fang | Steelixite

[attr="class","credit"]

MADE BY GUNSMILE

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POSTED ON Aug 16, 2023 14:48:43 GMT

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"You have my blessing, then."[break][break]

A rare, pleased smile split Nikolaj's face at Sven's words. He assumed, of course, that the boy completely understood what he was saying: to marry his daughter.[break][break]

Just because Sven had been somewhat dense as a child didn't mean he was that way as an adult. Right?[break][break]

Nikolaj nearly jumped out of his seat when the Staravia attacked, ready to retaliate in order to protect his companion and their rental boat. But Sven had a handle on things, it seemed, and quickly captured the wild Pokémon.[break][break]

Settling back into his chair, Nikolaj returned his gaze to the sea. He and Sven continued to fish and catch Pokémon for several hours, enjoying the peace, conversation, and each other's company.[break][break]

But eventually, it was time to go home.

[attr="class","ooc"]

[attr="class","tag"]sven korolev

[break]

NOTES

⬥ Duo Wild (water/flying/dragon)[break]
⬥ Skipping

[attr="class","pkmn"]

Lapras ♂ | Hydration | Bulldoze, Ice Shard, Psychic, Rain Dance, Smart Strike, Water Pulse

Magnezone ○ | Sturdy | Discharge, Flash Cannon, Light Screen, Magnet Rise, Screech, Tri Attack

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POSTED ON Aug 11, 2023 16:46:59 GMT

Razz Kingsman likes this

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Reshiram. Perhaps Sven was onto something. Since becoming a Ranger Captain, Nikolaj was privy to the information that Head Ranger Razz Kingsman was an Avatar of Reshiram. Perhaps he should reach out to request a special expedition into the Silent Icelands with Razz's patron.[break][break]

Avatarship was something Nikolaj still did not fully understand, but as long as the Legendary Pokémon was on their side, that was only a good thing — right?[break][break]

"Not a bad idea, Sven," was all he said about it, however.[break][break]

The conversation turned to Nikolaj's family. He couldn't help but smile at Sven's enthusiasm for Saskia. "She didn't say that, but it's good to know she has someone who loves her that much."[break][break]

There. A careful deployment of such a powerful word.[break][break]

"We think of you as family, too. You know, I've always wanted a son. Saskia is a wonderful daughter, and she's very much like a boy sometimes, but it's not the same as having another man in the house."[break][break]

The implication was, of course, that Sven had stepped up into that role over the years — and that Nikolaj would be prouder still if Sven joined the family properly.

[attr="class","ooc"]

[attr="class","tag"]sven korolev

[break]

NOTES

⬥ Duo Wild (water/flying/dragon)[break]
⬥ Skipping

[attr="class","pkmn"]

Lapras ♂ | Hydration | Bulldoze, Ice Shard, Psychic, Rain Dance, Smart Strike, Water Pulse

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MADE BY GUNSMILE

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POSTED ON Aug 10, 2023 16:02:21 GMT

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Guards were not a problem, but Nikolaj frowned at the mention of human and Pokémon remains. The Mechanical Kingdom seemed whimsical on the surface, a life-sized mimicry of a real country. If the reports were true — and he had no reason to believe otherwise — then something darker lurked behind closed doors.[break][break]

"We should," he agreed with a nod.[break][break]

His Steelix had brought them close to the castle by this point; he could see it situated atop a hill overlooking the nearby village. And when he peered closer, he could see the guards: large, red, machine-like Pokémon that patrolled the castle's perimeter.[break][break]

"Steelix, bring us around the front. I don't see another entrance from this angle."[break][break]

The great snake rumbled in response and aimed in that direction. Meanwhile, Nikolaj selected two Pokéballs from his belt, ready to release their occupants upon arrival.

[attr="class","ooc"]

[attr="class","tag"]Genevieve Cromwell

[break]

NOTES

⬥ Mission: Into the Wild

[attr="class","pkmn"]

Steelix ♀ | Sheer Force | Dig, Dragon Breath, Ice Fang, Iron Tail, Psychic Fangs, Thunder Fang | Steelixite

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POSTED ON Aug 9, 2023 14:41:28 GMT

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The assistance of Genevieve's Abomasnow was not necessary, but Nikolaj did not object. The girl was being considerate, after all. He easily climbed the vines and sat down next to her before patting his Steelix on the head.[break][break]

"Let's go, girl. Follow the direction Miss Cromwell points you in."[break][break]

Steelix rumbled, raising her head as she slithered forward.[break][break]

Meanwhile, Nikolaj leaned over for a closer look at Genevieve's phone. "A castle? Has that been on any other Ranger reports from this place?" he asked, unable to remember himself. Granted, he'd been spending his time in the Ultra Crater and was more familiar with its environs.

[attr="class","ooc"]

[attr="class","tag"]Genevieve Cromwell

[break]

NOTES

⬥ Mission: Into the Wild

[attr="class","pkmn"]

Steelix ♀ | Sheer Force | Dig, Dragon Breath, Ice Fang, Iron Tail, Psychic Fangs, Thunder Fang | Steelixite

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MADE BY GUNSMILE

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POSTED ON Aug 7, 2023 19:08:24 GMT

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Everything that happened with the Poliwag occurred behind Nikolaj's back. He focused, instead, on the fishing line that he'd cast, hoping to see the bobber dip below the water's surface. Nothing happened, of course.[break][break]

"I appreciate that," the old man said of Sven's offer. "With everything that happens in his region, there's definitely a way to reverse all that snow and ice. But how is the big question."[break][break]

But now that the boy had brought up Nikolaj's daughter…[break][break]

"You and Saskia have been hanging out a lot lately," he observed. It wasn't a question, but Sven should be used to Nikolaj's way of speaking. "I'm glad to see you're still close after all these years she's been living in Sinnoh with her grandfather."

[attr="class","ooc"]

[attr="class","tag"]sven korolev

[break]

NOTES

⬥ Duo Wild (water/flying/dragon)[break]
⬥ Skipping

[attr="class","pkmn"]

Lapras ♂ | Hydration | Bulldoze, Ice Shard, Psychic, Rain Dance, Smart Strike, Water Pulse

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MADE BY GUNSMILE

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Kolya, Chernobog

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amiNONONO

POSTED ON Aug 4, 2023 18:33:23 GMT

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And Nikolaj was none the wiser. Nor would he be any wiser for several days, because he would forget about the app until he discovered the notifications on his phone.[break][break]

"Thanks, dochka. Now get ingredients for bread out of the cabinet because you're helping me make a fresh loaf for dinner."[break][break]

The soup could stay simmering on the lowest heat until Camila Volosenkova returned home from work at the clinic. By then, the bread would be ready and the whole family would sit down for a meal together.[break][break]

No phones or apps at the table, either.[break][break]

It was just how Nikolaj preferred it.

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[attr="class","tag"]saskia volosenkova

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Distractions [B&B]

POSTED ON Aug 3, 2023 16:58:22 GMT

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Camila only continued to make sense, so there was nothing Nikolaj could do except nod his head and accept the reality of their situation. But at least she seemed amenable to looking for help. If it could be in the form of another doctor, then all the better.[break][break]

"That sounds good. As good as it will get," he said.[break][break]

Then he patted her hip, a signal for her to rise from his lap.[break][break]

"Let me get Sasky her snowcone before it melts away. You sit here and look cute for me, all right?" He grinned at last and returned Camila's kiss on the cheek before helping her stand up.[break][break]

And for the rest of their beach trip, Nikolaj didn't worry about his wife's work. He trusted her, after all.

[attr="class","ooc"]

[attr="class","tag"]Camila Volosenkova

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NOTES

⬥ Mission: Prelude to Paradiso (B&B)

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Run with the Hare, Hunt with the Hounds [M]

POSTED ON Aug 3, 2023 0:10:53 GMT

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Yvaine's Pokémon made quick work of the Mightyena. The synergy impressed Nikolaj. It seemed she had learned a lot during her years away, even if those years were fraught with challenges and difficulties.[break][break]

He handed her several empty Pokéballs. "Fill these up while I get my truck," he instructed her.[break][break]

In no time at all, he returned with his all-terrain pickup. They loaded what Mightyena they could into capsules, then packed the rest into cages for transport to Ranger HQ.[break][break]

On the drive there, Nikolaj glanced sidelong at Yvaine. "I don't know your plans, but stay for dinner, at least. Camila and Saskia will be overjoyed to see you again."[break][break]

And besides, they had much more to discuss. Their short conversation while fixing the fence had not been enough time to catch up on over a decade without contact.

[attr="class","ooc"]

[attr="class","tag"]Yvaine Varron

[break]

NOTES

⬥ Mission: The Hounds of Oldale

[attr="class","pkmn"]

Excadrill ♂ | Sand Force | Crush Claw, Drill Run, Horn Drill, Metal Claw, Rock Slide, Sandstorm

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Kolya, Chernobog

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POSTED ON Aug 2, 2023 23:57:43 GMT

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Nikolaj raised a hand in greeting as Sven approached on the back of his Dewott. Lapras trilled softly, too, when she saw the boy and his Pokémon, and bent her head to nudge Sven as he climbed onto the boat.[break][break]

"Hey, kid," the old man greeted his companion for the day.[break][break]

Saskia had been spending a lot of time with Sven recently — understandable, considering how they'd basically grown up together — and he wanted a chance to catch up with Sven, too.[break][break]

"Thanks. It's been the same, really. Life doesn't change much in Oldale." Which was simply not true, considering all that had happened recently. "Still trying to figure out what's going on with the Icelands."[break][break]

Just then, a Togekiss swooped into view, skimming the surface of the water. Nikolaj watched her fly for a moment before nodding at his Magnezone. The Steel-type cut off the Fairy-type's advance with a quick DISCHARGE.[break][break]

Nikolaj threw a Pokéball. Then, as nonchalant as can be, he flipped open the lid of the cooler he'd brought and pulled out a bottle of beer, which he handed to Sven.[break][break]

"What about you? How've you been?"

[attr="class","ooc"]

[attr="class","tag"]sven korolev

[break]

NOTES

⬥ Duo Wild (water/flying/dragon)[break]
⬥ Catching Togekiss

[attr="class","pkmn"]

Lapras ♂ | Hydration | Bulldoze, Ice Shard, Psychic, Rain Dance, Smart Strike, Water Pulse

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MADE BY GUNSMILE

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POSTED ON Aug 2, 2023 23:48:34 GMT

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Nikolaj peered down at Genny's phone, unsure what he was looking at. Kids these days used all manner of newfangled devices and technology, but they could have just as easily determined there was a large building in the distance if they used a pair of trusty binoculars.[break][break]

But Genevieve Cromwell had requested the mission and Nikolaj's assistance on top of that, so he let her take the lead.[break][break]

"Shouldn't need an hour," he rumbled, plucking a Pokéball from his belt. "Or to walk."[break][break]

In a flash of light, his Steelix emerged. The massive Pokémon lowered her head to the ground at a signal from her trainer. Standing next to her, Nikolaj bent his knees slightly and laced his hands together to give Genny a boost onto Steelix's head.[break][break]

"Climb on. We'll ride to the structure. Your Rowlett will have a good vantage point from here, too."

[attr="class","ooc"]

[attr="class","tag"]Genevieve Cromwell

[break]

NOTES

⬥ Mission: Into the Wild

[attr="class","pkmn"]

Steelix ♀ | Sheer Force | Dig, Dragon Breath, Ice Fang, Iron Tail, Psychic Fangs, Thunder Fang | Steelixite

[attr="class","credit"]

MADE BY GUNSMILE

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Kolya, Chernobog

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amiNONONO

POSTED ON Aug 2, 2023 23:41:06 GMT

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Nikolaj could not help the proud smile that spread over his face when Saskia correctly recognized that he hadn't added the pickles yet. If she lived on her own one day — truly alone, without even her grandfather nearby — then she'd at least be able to feed herself.[break][break]

"Very good," Nikolaj said, pleased. He fetched them from a jar in the refrigerator and began dicing them.[break][break]

When Saskia brought up the silly phone app again, however, his frown flipped upside-down again. The steady chopping sound of the knife against the cutting board filled the air between him and his daughter.[break][break]

"I didn't see anything saying 'looking for friends only' when I was using it earlier," Nikolaj admitted. He glanced over at the kitchen table. "My phone's on the table. You can set that up for me while I finish cooking."[break][break]

Typical for a parent to phrase a request that way.[break][break]

Typical for a parent to put too much trust into their tech-savvy child.

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[attr="class","tag"]saskia volosenkova

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