Hey guys, a little bit earlier then I planned, but I wanted to kick off Summer with a bang.
Season Two is here! I don't want to spend too much time writing this note, but there will be a few changes.
Probably most important to announce is the first instance of aftermath episodes in my series. After every five eliminations there will be a special that gives fans a chance to ask eliminated contestants' questions. Each aftermath will also be a crossover with a tpi writer, so get hyped for some shenanigans!
Diamond Toxic: Hey everyone, it's Diamond Toxic/ Fire Slash here and welcome to the newest addition of our TPI series. I was supposed to have helped Shuckle with his story, but some personal stuff came up that made it hard for me to even focus on my old stories. But, I'm back now and excited to be here. If you like our series, I'd totally recommend that you read the spin-off, TPI Gliscor's Redemption. To put it simply, Gliscor travels back in time to when the contest first happens. Anyways, hope you all enjoy Total Pokkemon Action.
That's all for now, so I hope you guys enjoy!
0000
A cream-colored fox smiled at the camera facing him, making a victory pose with his fingers. "Howdy folks, and welcome to Total Pokkemon Action! If you're new, welcome, and if you've seen this song and dance before, welcome back!"
He stood with his back to what appeared to be a film lot, and the camera slowly turned to showcase the many sets and trailers. Many Pokemon were hard at work, preparing the lot for what appeared to be a monster movie. The fox grinned.
"It's a lot fancier than a crappy old island, eh?" Victini said. "Welcome to Season Two of the Total Pokkemon franchise. I'm your host Victini, ready to throw down another few months of quality reality TV show entertainment."
"Hah," came a gruff, Russian voice from a limousine a few feet away from Victini. The window rolled down, revealing the face of Hariyama, Victini's partner in crime, wearing a pair of shades.
"Quality entertainment and reality TV show do not work well in same sentence, yes?" Hariyama chuckled. "Young Victini is kidding himself."
"Ixnay on the criticism!" Victini hissed. "Venusaur's docking my pay every time the show is panned in any way, shape, or form. Apparently, he blames any of the show's flaws on me personally."
"Well, you are host," Hariyama said, folding his arms. "Perhaps he has point."
"Yeah, I'm the host, and that means I outrank you and therefore can get you fired," Victini hissed. He blinked a few times, realizing that the cameras were still rolling. He turned back to them with an awkward grin.
"To uh…go into the show's lore, Total Pokkemon Island was a low budget reality show starring thirty-six competitors," Victini said, reading through some note cards he had made.
"Thirty-seven!" Hariyama barked.
"Hariyama, roll that window up now!" Victini growled. When the fighting type acquiesced, his wide but fake grin returned. "Anyway, after thirty-five Pokemon were eliminated via being voted off, only two competitors remained and fought in a vicious final battle. Last season, it was Umbreon, the edgy loner, who took home the gold. This time, we have an all new cast, and some new rules and gimmicks to hook you guys in!"
He took a glance at his watch. "It looks like it will be a while before the cast arrives, so let's check the cameras on the bus they're taking here. See ya soon!"
0000
"What'cha reading?" Weavile asked the Pokemon sitting next to him; a Sawk. The fighting type was leafing through a book, and he didn't make much effort in trying to engage in conversation.
"You don't know this one?" Sawk asked, looking up and raising an eyebrow. "It's a novel on tactics and manipulation in a Reality TV show's setting, written by two contestants from last season of the show we're competing in. I'm brushing up on some of the skills used by the professionals."
"Huh," Weavile said with a whistle. "You're really dedicated to winning this then?"
"Of course," Sawk said. "I could use the money. I suggest you read it too if you wish a stand a chance in making the merge."
Weavile nodded. "Does it have any pictures?"
"No, of course not," Sawk said, narrowing his eyes.
"Then I'm not too interested," Weavile said, leaning against the back of his seat. Sawk rolled his eyes and went back to reading.
He wasn't the one on the bus reading that particular book. Magmar's gaze was fixed on the novel as though his life depended on it, and Crobat was perusing it from where he clung to the ceiling. Unlike Magmar though, he didn't look very impressed by it.
"Hey, do you know that guy?" Emolga asked, whispering to Mawile. The two had gotten to know each other quickly and made friends on their long bus ride. "He looks kinda familiar."
"Well, he's a Crobat, girl," Mawile said with a snicker, bopping Emolga on the head. "They all share the same features."
"Funny you should say that, Emolga," came a voice behind them. Emolga and Mawile both gasped and wheeled around, turning to face Ariados, who was staring at them.
"Jesus, Ariados, why do you have to sneak up on us like that?" Mawile asked. "You almost gave me a heart attack!"
"Your reactions are so funny though," Ariados said with a giggle. "I couldn't help myself."
"So, what were you saying?" Emolga asked. "You know this Crobat guy?"
"Yeah, apparently, he's been in a few of these reality tv show competitions," Ariados explained. "He didn't rank particularly high on them, but he's known for his mean streak and grasp of tactics. Keep an eye out for him."
"He's cute though," Emolga remarked.
"She took nothing from what you said," Mawile chuckled, nudging Ariados. "I've known Emolga for an hour and a half and I already know it's in one ear and out the other with her."
The other Pokemon had spent their ride on the bus breaking the ice, making polite small-talk with one another to get to know the competition. Komala was snoozing in his chair next to an awkward looking Feebas in her fish bowl, each bump on the road causing the poor fish to nearly spill out. A few Pokemon were giving odd, furtive looks to Samurott, who was sitting quietly by himself, pointing out his odd battle scars. Samurott did his best to ignore them but couldn't help letting out a sad sigh.
"You have my pity," Gengar said next to him, patting his shoulder. "No offense intended, but I'm sure you get that a lot?"
Samurott nodded, looking downcast.
"It's unfortunate, but it's how we are," Gengar said. "Every bee will be judged for their stingers, even though said stingers prove nothing but their innocence."
Samurott gave Gengar a grateful look. He bowed his thanks at the ghost's understanding.
Gengar gave Samurott a kind smile. "I'm sure they just need a chance to get to know you."
"He'll definitely be a threat," Magmar grumbled, writing down Samurott's name into a notebook. "He's already being ostracized, so it won't be too hard to convince people to vote him off."
"Hey, can you quit your scheming while I'm trying to nap?" Growlithe barked. "It's rude."
"Can you quit trying to nap while I'm scheming?" Magmar shot back. "It's rude."
"That really doesn't make any sense, Magmar," Flygon said from the seat behind them.
"Your face doesn't make any sense!" Magmar spat.
Next to Flygon, Mimikyu was also scribbling down something in her notebook labeled 'Hit list'. Flygon glanced at her.
"Uh…how are you doing Mimikyu? What's that you're writing?" Flygon asked, feeling like he would regret answering.
Slowly, Mimikyu spun her head one hundred and eighty degrees to stare pointedly at the dragon type. "You don't want to know."
"Y-you're right, I probably don't!" Flygon said with a weak laugh. "Glad we're on the same page."
"It's too late," Mimikyu hissed. "Change seats right now."
"Y-yes ma'am!" Flygon said. "Uh…Castform, can I switch with you?"
"No," Castform said, using the mechanical hands he had attached to his body to shake a strange vial. "And its Doctor Castform, so refer to me as such!"
"Wait really?" Flygon asked in surprise. "You have a medical degree?"
"Well, legally….no…" Doctor Castform said after a moment. "But I killed David Tennant in single combat, so I deserve his title, I am thinking."
"You can sit here," Kirlia said with a wave, pointing to the empty seat next to her. Flygon practically let out a whimper of relief and flew over to her.
"You doing okay?" Kirlia asked with concern on her face. "The people here seem really weird."
"Yeah," Flygon admitted. "To think that I thought season one was exaggerated for entertainment purposes."
Toucannon looked over the people in the seats, giving them a bemused look. "That's so odd…."
"Are you referring to the number of Pokemon in the bus?" Porygon asked in a low, mechanical voice. "Because I've come to the same conclusion as you. Not everyone is here."
"Great minds think alike, I suppose," Toucannon said with a chuckle. "There's supposed to be thirty-six Pokemon competing in this season, and there are quite a few empty seats."
"I've calculated several likely reasons that could explain their absence," Porygon said. "Most likely is that they found another mode of transportation."
"Forgive me if I sound indelicate," Toucannon said. "But you're a robot, correct?"
"Well, that's one way you could refer to me," Porygon admitted. "I much prefer to refer to myself as an AI, or an 'Artificially Created' Pokemon. The term Robot alludes to the Czech word for forced labor. Not exactly something I like to call myself."
"Oy, Robot!" Castform shouted. "Get over here; we're going to do some experiments!"
Porygon let out a metallic sigh. "My programming prevents me from denying this order."
He got up from his seat and drove over to an enthusiastic Castform. Toucannon shook his head and laughed.
"Hey," came another voice. Toucannon glanced back to look at Furret, who was leaning over his seat.
"Can I help you?" Toucannon asked.
"Do you think I have a chance with that beauty over there?" Furret asked, jerking his head to Liepard's direction.
Toucannon gazed at the girl. High strung. Likely had a chip on her shoulder. She was hunched up, so she clearly wasn't very comfortable.
"Don't try it, she has sharp claws," Toucannon warned. "Try out someone sunnier. You're less likely to die that way."
Furret ignored him, strutting up the aisle to greet Liepard.
"So why did he even ask me to begin with?" Toucannon asked, mystified. "Regardless, this will be fun to watch."
Liepard, meanwhile, was stretched out on a bus seat, doing her best to nap. An eye opened when Furret approached.
"Mind if I sit here?" Furret asked with a pleasant smile.
Liepard opened her other eye. "Where were you sitting before, and why can't you sit there now?"
"Toucannon is a nice enough fellow, but I couldn't help but be attracted to your beauty," Furret said. "I'm afraid I had to indulge myself."
"You had to indulge yourself, eh?" Liepard asked with a chuckle.
Furret leaned in closer. "That's right."
Liepard responded by throwing a quick swipe at Furret, causing him to yelp in pain and stumble back. "So did I."
"I understand you perfectly, milady!" Furret said, rubbing his injured face. "Thorns suit a rose as lovely as you."
Liepard groaned.
"Aww man, I was hoping the girls here wouldn't be too scary," Shellder muttered in his own seat. He cast a nervous look to Liepard. "I hope she gets voted off first."
"Wh-why are you s-scared of women?" Heliolisk asked. He blushed in embarrassment at his stuttering.
"I don't want to talk about it," Shellder muttered, also blushing.
"Hey!" Rockruff barked, his tail wagging as he looked out the window. "I think we're almost there!"
"Huh, cool," Klefki said, as he, Kecleon, and Throh crowded around it. "Um…anyone have any keys on them?"
"What kind of question is that?" Throh asked. "Oh man, I'm so excited!"
The bus began to slow, and the competing Pokemon all looked around at each other, excited. Emolga was leaping up and down, Growlithe let out a howl of excitement, and even Crobat looked interested, giving a curious grin to Victini, who was walking towards the bus.
The bus doors opened, and Victini looked inside. "Hey guys! I'm Victini, host of the show. We're going to call you out in alphabetical order, so you can introduce yourselves!"
"Wow," Chandelure whispered, looking at the legendary longingly. "What a dreamboat."
"Uh, haha, yeah," Victini said, scratching the back of his head. "Well, I'll be…uh…outside."
"Aww, he's so awkward," Mawile said, chuckling. "That's so adorable."
"Better awkward then sadistic," Ariados said. "Certainly a breath of fresh air."
0000
"So, you got a glimpse of them, but I think it's time for some formal introductions," Victini said, taking out a list. "Let's start with Ab-"
"Oy, do not forget!" Hariyama said, rolling down the window of his limousine. "You're supposed to advertise-"
"Oh right," Victini said, and his smile became fixed. "Uh…we're sponsored by the Ivysaur
Perfume Company. Want to smell like an Ivysaur, now you can!"
He looked at Hariyama. "Was that it?"
"For the next twenty minutes, yes," Hariyama said. "Advertisement for Venusaur Aftershave needs to happen soon."
"Ugh, whatever," Victini said. "Absol, just get out here."
The dark type stepped down the stairs, flashing the camera a grin. She walked with poise and confidence, and gave Victini a hug instead of a handshake.
"Anything to tell the viewers?" Victini asked, chuckling.
"You're looking at the first contestant and future winner," Absol said with a wink. "You'd better pay attention to me."
"Well, you're brimming with confidence, aren't you?" Victini said. "Could that be your downfall?"
Absol blinked, as if she hadn't considered this, but shook her head. "Nuh-uh. If I lose, I lose, but you won't see me bitching about it until it gets to that point. My mindset will stay the same unless the votes are cast against me."
"Well spoken," Victini said. "Next up, we have Ariados. Let's go!"
"I'm right here," Ariados whispered, hanging from some string behind him.
Victini shrieked and stumbled away, prompting Ariados to giggle.
"Don't do that!" Victini hissed. "You nearly scared the immortality out of me."
"Oh, it was just some harmless fun," Ariados said, rolling her eyes. She glanced at the camera. "Keep an eye on me and I'm sure we'll have a good time."
"Ugh, just…sit next to Absol," Victini grumbled. "Okay, uh, next up we have-oh…here comes a pair of contestants who came via police cruiser. Who allowed a criminal on our show?"
Absol and Ariados exchanged a glance as a Beedrill stepped out of the car, flanked by a Butterfree and a Herdier carrying a nightstick.
"Remember, you're still on probation, so no funny business," Herdier barked. "Give the other inmates something to aspire to when they watch this show."
"The other inmates can screw off," Beedrill growled. "Trust me, I'm not stupid enough to get myself thrown back in there."
"Fair enough," the Herdier said with a chuckle. "Watch over him, will you, Butterfree?"
"Have been since the day he was born," the Butterfree said. "Can't say I've done a good job, but whatever. Have a good day, officer.'
"So, we have our first pair of brothers on the show," Victini said. "Beedrill and Butterfree."
"I'm the brains and he's the brawn," Butterfree said. "Together we're an unmatched team."
"You're not that much smarter than me," Beedrill said with a scowl. "They say I'm the one with the ego, and that's complete bull."
"Okay," Victini said, checking the list. "Uh…Bellossom, introduce yourself!"
Nobody left the bus. Weavile stuck his head out.
"No Bellosom here, boss. Must've called it quits."
"What?" Victini snapped. "Aw, come on! Are we going to have to hunt him down!?"
"Nah, I'm here, man, just decided to walk it," a new voice piped up. Bellosom, carrying nothing but a rather old looking ukulele, walked up, shaking an astonished Victini's hand. "Couldn't really afford the fare."
"We could've supplied you with-"Victini started, but Bellosom waved him off.
"It was fun. I stowed away on a boat and made some nice folks," Bellosom said with a wide smile. "So glad to be here."
"Uh…great to have you," Victini said, scratching his head. "Come out next, Castform."
"Doctor Castform," Castform corrected, flying out of a bus window. "Can I interest you in a drink?"
"Uh…your bio informs me that accepting anything from you would be very bad for my health," Victini said.
Castform rolled his eyes. "Humbug! People these days, can't even take a shot of arsine."
"Chandelure, please come now and introduce yourself!" Victini shouted. "Damn it, I knew I'd get a bunch of weirdos again."
Chandelure floated after Castform, giving Victini a little wave. "Uh…hi! Nice to meet you."
"Nice to meet you too, Chandelure," Victini said, relieved that he was finally speaking to someone normal. "Any ambitions?"
"I was thinking of writing about my time spent here," Chandelure said, her face lighting up with excitement. "Plus, these types of shows are romance city. I'd like to find love here."
"That's both sweet and grounded," Victini said. "Why can't you be like that Castform?"
"Doctor Castform!"
"Whatever, I'm next," Crobat said, flying out. "Don't bother giving me an introduction."
"Ah, I almost forgot!" Victini said, snapping a finger. "We have a very special guest today."
"God dammit."
"Crobat's been in a few reality shows, so you may recognize him from television," Victini said. "Granted, he's not Cacturne, but he was our solid second choice."
"Leave me alone," Crobat snapped, flying next to Beedrill. "Stop trying to single me out, or I'll make Ninjask's barbs feel like mild tickling."
"Noted," Victini said with a gulp. "N-next."
Emolga followed, giving the camera a little twirl, followed by Feebas, who was carried by Gengar. Though the fish showed enthusiasm at the prospect of competing, the competitors all gave her patronizing looks; it was clear she wasn't the one who was going to win.
Flygon left next, introducing himself politely, followed by Furret, who gave Victini compliments as though he were a buxom waitress, and had the fox blushing in no time. Next came Growlithe, who scrambled down the stairs and grinned around at the competition.
"So, I've heard you took a bit of an injury playing for varsity in high school a few years back," Victini said after he introduced himself. "Think it'll slow you down?"
"Me? No way," Growlithe scoffed. "I'm better on my bad leg than most people are on their good limb. I'm not worried about anything physical."
Followed by Growlithe was Heliolisk, who stuttered through the little interview, much to his annoyance. Soon he was cursing, stuttering, and trying to speak to Victini at the same time, until Victini decided enough was enough and had him move next to Gengar.
"Kecleon!" Victini said. "You're here aren't you?"
"Sure thing!" a peppy chameleon said, strolling over to Victini, giving an exaggerated grin. "But if you didn't want me here you could purchase my warp ball, an item that teleports foes long distances! Care to buy one?"
"Damn Kecleons, money grubbers, the lot of them," Victini scowled to himself, before clearing his throat. "My deepest apologies Kecleon, but only Venusaur Enterprises merchandise may be sold here. You can keep your wares, or give them away, but no exchange that involves money."
"What?" Kecleon asked, horrified. "Curse monopolies that trod upon small business owners like myself!"
"Don't bullshit me, the Kecleon Clan practically owns the mail system," Victini scowled. "Now quit bitching and sit with everyone else! Kirlia, get out here!"
"On my way," Kirlia said, letting out a deep breath. She stepped down, shaking Victini's hand. "It is very nice to be here."
"Nice to have you," Victini said. "Your ballet in the audition tape was very impressive."
"Thank you very much," Kirlia said, smiling.
Klefki was the next to float down, and he greeted the host politely enough, but soon Victini realized his car keys were gone. He didn't want to make a scene of it, considering he was on tape, so he called the next Pokemon on the list instead; Komala.
The koala tottered down the steps, letting out a big yawn. He blinked a couple times, before giving Victini a small smile.
"Hello."
Victini tried not to snort. "Hi there. Ready to compete?"
Komala looked confused a moment before realization dawned on him. "Oh bother. I forgot that was today. I thought I was on my way to a eucalyptus festival."
"Uh, we'll get you some, so don't worry about it?" Victini questioned, clearly confused. "Just go sit with the others for now."
Komala tottered away, letting out another big yawn as Emolga cooed at how cute he was being.
Liepard came next, offering nothing but a glare of warning not to mess with her, followed by Magmar, who greeted Victini with false reverence. Victini was about to call down Mawile, before the roaring of a motorcycle could be heard.
"Ah, I think that's another competitor!" Victini said in excitement.
"Ooh, I've never stolen motorcycle keys before," Klefki whispered.
The motorcycle arrived, and the Pokemon on top, Lilligant, slid off. She stretched a bit, before giving Victini and the others a monotonous stare.
"This is Lilligant!" Victini said. "The heiress to Lilligant Industries and rival to Venusaur productions. Which uh…I'm legally required to say here is superior in every way."
"Recruiting Plant Girl onto this show was a mistake," Lilligant said in a monotone, nasally voice. "Plant Girl will restore the natural order and grind Venusaur into the dust. Be warned."
"Hey, I'm just the messenger, don't cut me down," Victini said. "Speaking of which, are you tired of cutting yourself while shaving? Venusaur Aftershave goes a step further and invokes a floral healing that will wipe away all slices and bruises! Order now!"
"So, you're an heiress?" Flygon asked, giving Lilligant a curious look. "I imagine it must be a lot of pressure."
"Plant Girl has been trained for it," Lilligant said. "Plant Girl was thrown into a pile of Arbok as an infant with no way to escape. The Arbok did not survive."
"Damn," Growlithe said with a snort that expelled fire.
"Oh, she's bluffing," Butterfree said, rolling his eyes.
"Pretty…interesting cast so far, wouldn't you say?" Gengar said to Feebas with a laugh.
"More like freaking weird," Feebas said through a stream of bubbles. "To think that I thought that I'd stick out like a sore thumb."
"May I take your bags?" Furret asked, flashing Lilligant a smile as he approached. "I wouldn't want a lovely lady like yourself strain-"
Lilligant responded by judo flipping the poor ferret over her head, slamming him on the ground. "You got too close."
Furret moaned from where his face was planted. "Point taken."
Presently, a trumpet sounded, and Victini's ears perked up. Approaching the lot was a massive chariot, pulled by two grumpy Rapidash.
"Huh," Victini said with a chuckle. "The heiress and the prince arrive together. That's pretty fitting."
"Wait, did you say prince?" Doctor Castform asked, glancing up.
"Declaring the prince of Persian, Meowth IV!" A Chatot screeched into a megaphone.
The door to the chariot opened, and a red carpet flew out. Meowth strutted down, preening his grey fur.
He gave an odd glance at the campers staring dumbfoundedly at him. "What? You may bow now, if that is your wish?"
"Pretty chariot and impressive title," Crobat said, looking the cat up and down. "Compensating for something?"
"How dare you insult the prince!" Chatot snarled, drawing himself up, but Meowth snapped his fingers to shut him up.
"I don't mind, Chatot; In fact, I like some cattiness between my subjects," Meowth said, before fixing Crobat with a deadly stare. "But you will respect your superiors. I could have your head with a single snap of my fingers."
Gengar cleared his throat. "You're prince of Persian, yes? A long way away from our humble land here. Even the strongest Wishiwashi is still considered weak if he's alone. You want respect? Earn it yourself."
"If I need to claw myself up from the bottom, so be it," Meowth said, extending his claws to prove his point. "Still, you'd be foolish to underestimate me."
"Trust me, I don't underestimate anyone," Crobat said. "But you're no different than any other asshole here, so stop acting so high and mighty."
"Kettle meet pot," Beedrill mumbled.
"What was that?" Crobat snapped.
"You heard me."
"Plant Girl is sensing tension," Lilligant said. "If necessary, Plant Girl will unleash spores to knock out the disputers."
"That…won't be necessary, Lilligant," Victini yelped. "Uh…Let's just get the rest of the cast here and fight later, all right? We're low on runtime."
Mawile finally could greet everyone, and she fist bumped Emolga, followed by Mimikyu, which resulted in an awkward conversation with Mimikyu answering Victini's questions in whispers and mad cackles.
Noivern was next to come, and she greeted everyone with a quick guitar solo, with Beedrill grinning at her taste in music and Komala covering his ears at the noise. Victini, his ears still ringing, called out Pawniard's name.
"Hey everyone," the knight said in a voice that sounded like a knife being sharpened. "Hope we can all enjoy a game like this."
Despite their best efforts, nobody could take their eyes off the awards hanging on Pawniard's body. "Those medals…they were issued to those who fought in the Doduo War, right?" Emolga asked in a hushed whisper.
Pawniard laughed and rubbed the back of his neck. "Fighting is an understatement. I never saw combat; I was just a chef there. Still though, I guess I technically count as a veteran."
"That's cool," Flygon said, holding out a hand to shake Pawniard's. "I just graduated military academy myself. I'm planning on shipping out a few weeks after the show's wrapped up."
"Good for you," Pawniard said. "You'd have the rank of second lieutenant then?"
"Yes sir," Flygon said. "Or at least…I will."
The next to introduce himself was Popplio, and he was an odd one. He claimed he was a clown and performed tricks for the contestants, much to Emolga, Komala, and Kirlia's delight. After blowing everyone a balloon dog each, an exasperated Victini told him that they needed to hurry up.
Porygon came next, introducing himself politely, followed by Rockruff, who greeted his fellow dog Growlithe, causing the other canine to blush in embarrassment. Samurott came next, and the contestants that weren't present on the bus gave him curious stares. His interview was awkward too, as he refused to say a word, though he did mime a bit.
"Hey bud, thought you might need this," Kecleon said, passing him a notepad. "On the house, but I'm charging for any extra papers."
Sawk came next, giving a quick greeting and stepping just as quickly out of the spotlight, and when it was Shellder turn he shied away from the girls, much to Emolga's disappointment.
"Uh…hey, I'm Throh, and I'm a big, strong, tough guy!" Throh said, flexing his muscles as he stepped out. "Hyaa!"
"You're doing it wrong," Crobat drawled. "Don't strain yourself, idiot."
He tried to jump at Crobat, but he tripped over his feet and fell flat on his face, leaving Crobat laughing.
"So, this is my competition, then?" Toucannon said, glancing from a moaning Throh to Feebas, who was still stuck in her bowl. "Shame. I should have signed on for season one. They'd at least put up a fight."
Crobat attempted to snap back, but Mawile slapped him upside the head.
"Ow, the shit was that for!?" Crobat yelped.
"No more quips," Mawile giggled. "We're low on runtime."
"That just leaves Weavile," Victini said. "Should be the only one in the-"
"I'm not the only one in the bus!" Weavile said, leaping out the window. "Someone's scrambling around in there!"
"What?" Victini asked. "But we have thirty six out here….so that should be it-"
"HAHA!" came a squeaky voice, and a Rattata climbed on top of the bus. "It is I! The thirty seventh member!"
"We didn't invite a Rattata," Victini said, mystified. "Hariyama, did we invite a Rattata?"
Hariyama shrugged.
"Fool!" Rattata shrieked, jumping off the roof of the bus. He thrust paperwork into the legendary's hands. "Proof of our covenant!"
"Huh," Victini said, peering at the papers. "Well, these are legitimate. I signed them myself….I guess…I goofed again and we have our thirty seventh contestant!...Again?"
"Ha, you may as well give up now!" Rattata screeched. "I'm in the top percentage of Rattata."
"You know, Rattata, I respect the fact that you only exist to make that one, overused joke," Mawile said. "That's your purpose in life, and I can't shame you for that."
"Hey, be fair," Crobat snickered. "He fills the quota for the thirty seventh contestant joke too."
Rattata scoffed at their chortling, but Victini cleared his throat to avoid more screeching.
"So we have our cast! Everyone, glance around at each other. These are your friends and enemies for the next two months. For those of you who watched season one, you know how this goes. You will be split into teams. For the first half of our season's runtime, both teams will compete in challenges. At the end of the challenge one team is given immunity and the other will face the elimination of one of its members. This will continue until we go from thirty-seven to eighteen, in which the teams will disband and it will be every contestant for themselves. The number will drop to ten, where we'll have a very special episode, and then to two, where the last of the remaining contestants will duke it out to determine the winner of our show!"
"Yeah, yeah, we get it," Crobat said. "Get to the part where you rip off better shows and steal challenges from them."
"I do not care for you," Victini grumbled. "BUT! Though those are the basic rules, this season will be very, very different in mechanics and game changers. We'll go over that next episode, but the whole experience is changing thematically! It's gonna be great!"
"I noticed," Toucannon said. "We seem to be competing in a film lot?"
"That's correct, my fine feathered friend," Victini replied. "And the challenges will be built around them. For now though, I'd like to remind you of two mechanics that will be returning. First is mega evolution…"
The campers that could mega evolve perked up. Absol high fived Mawile and Gengar let a mysterious smile play on his face, all while Beedrill smirked to himself.
"And the second is the immunity idol, this time in the shape of an Emmy award. Oh, and no forging them this time. None of that Carbink and Scrafty shit. That'll call for automatic elimination. Same with rigging the votes. Got it?"
Magmar looked very disappointed as Furret cracked a grin at the sight of his face.
"Next episode, we'll have a tour and announce the first challenge," Victini said. "To end this episode though, I'd like every contestant to leave a message on our confessional, to break it in and give our audience a final first impression. Have at it!"
0000
Pawniard looked around at the confessional around him, which was a fancy make up trailer. "Wow. Way to upgrade."
He cleared his throat. "I hope you support me in this show. I have some experience in dangerous situations and I promise to be of great moral fiber. My superiors beat an honor code into me and I'll be damned if it fails me now. Your support would be greatly appreciated."
0000
"Look, I really only signed up for one of these shows as a joke, but now that I'm here?" Weavile asked. "Hell yeah I'm going to win. I think I got the skills for it, and I'm not as quirky or extreme as some of the other weirdos here. I should be fine, so expect to see me in the finale."
0000
"I really don't think I stand a chance at winning," Feebas said, poking her head out of the fish bowl to allow a Mr. Mime to apply makeup to her. "But I did watch last season. A ton of Pokemon evolved last then, so if I'm lucky maybe I'll follow suit if I can get lucky. Oh, and I promise not to be a dick, so root for me, okay?"
0000
Samurott looked a little awkward, sitting in the confessional without saying anything. Soon remembering the notebook Kecleon give him, he tried writing something down, only to notice that he wasn't given a pencil or pen. As such, all he could do was give the camera a sheepish look.
0000
Mimikyu was giggling to herself maniacally. "I'll win the money, but I have some side plans for some of the more, popular contestants here. Soon, I will rule this game, and become loved by everyone! And if they don't, I'll make them!"
0000
"So apparently, I can't even make a profit while I'm here," Kecleon grumped. "What was the point of even joining the show then? Oh well, maybe I can get some advertising done."
0000
Noivern was strumming a guitar. "Look, I'm not much of a talker. I need the money here to jump start my band and get my parents off my back. I'm not into making friends, so don't expect me to be nice. Just expect me to win."
0000
"Oh bother," Komala said with a yawn. "Was I supposed to have a speech planned out or something? Um…I'll do my best I guess." Soon he was snoring.
0000
"I think I might be coming to regret this a bit," Kirlia said with a pained expression. "There's a lot of people here, and I'm not the best with large groups in close quarters. Still though, please support me in this game."
0000
"Right, so I was in prison," Beedrill said, waving his hands in surrender. "I'd like to move past that. I did something stupid once, paid the price, and got to go free. Leave it at that, all right? If you don't want me to win, that's fine, but at least don't insult me behind my back, okay? At least have the balls to look me in the eyes..."
0000
"I was at the top back in my hometown," Flygon explained. "Great grades, popularity, and I was quarterback on the football team. I don't like to be stagnant though, so I figure an experience like this might humble me. Win or lose, I'm a human too, guys. Even if I'm…technically a Pokemon…right. Forgot humans aren't a thing anymore."
"Damn it, can we do another take?" Flygon pleaded. "Please?"
0000
"Wow, everyone here is really attractive," Chandelure said with a girlish giggle. "I've already taken notes on who would make cute couples."
She blinked. "Oh, right, and I totally want to win, yeah."
0000
"You would not believe how prepared for this moment I am," Magmar explained. "I've watched every episode of Island repeatedly and developed the perfect blend of strategy of the best players in that game. Umbreon, Shuckle, Gallade, Zorua, Slowking, and my hero Scrafty. You're my inspiration and my means of winning."
0000
"Hi!" Emolga said, leaning in close to the camera. "Oh dude, I am so hyped to be here. I love the atmosphere of it all! The quirky people, the stage around us, the challenges! For once I get to be a part of it and that's awesome!"
Emolga threw her hands up. "Who cares if I win? I'm on TV"
0000
"In truth, I just joined to talk to women," Furret admitted, flashing a smile. "I went to an all boys school. Sue me."
0000
"Yeah, this looks like fun," Ariados said, spinning from a web. "Surprisingly the people here are pretty cool. Usually people get freaked out because of my appearance. Honestly it's probably my fault because I encourage it a bit too much, but still, this is a breath of fresh air."
0000
"These people should really look after their belongings," Klefki said, giggling at all the array of keys strewn out. "This is going to be a fun show."
0000
"I've downloaded various strategies and internalized as much of the first season of the show as I could," Porygon said. "I may lack adaptability, but no one can outspeed an AI mentally. The odds of winning in my favor are high, and I'm not programmed to lie."
0000
"If you know me, you know the way I work," Crobat said. "If you don't, then sit back and enjoy. I lie, cheat, steal, and manipulate, stuff I'm known quite well for doing. The reputation's screwed me over in the past, but I plan to play a different hand. I assume you expect much of me, considering my experience in this field."
He flashed an evil grin. "I promise to exceed your expectations, dear viewers."
0000
"Crobat's an asshole, but he has a sense of humor," Mawile said. "Emolga's cool, and everyone's been friendly so far. I could have some fun here."
"Look, if we're being real here, my therapist thought this would be good for me," she said. "I've been a little off my game lately, so she wanted me to get some fresh air and do an activity. Probably wasn't expecting to see me on international television, but hey. I'm feeling pretty good so far."
0000
Popplio was juggling in the confessional, not even paying attention to camera. He threw all three balls up, before shooting a bubble that caught them.
"C'mon, give me the win for that trick!" he said. "Please?"
0000
Growlithe sat down, shooting an ember at an intern that moved to powder his face. "I should be fine. I'm athletic and all, and I'm a good team player. Do I need to be more than that, at least for the first part of the game?"
He blushed a little. "Plus, uh…the season's movie themed…and acting isn't the worst thing in the world."
0000
"I'm going to be candid with you," Toucannon said. "I'm a ruthless man. You have to be, to get to my level. I'm competing in this show purely because of the monetary gain. My first goal is to take the lead of my team, informally or formally, and decide the votes based on my blunt but fair reasoning. Once my position of power is certain, winning will be simple."
0000
"I like to think of myself as a strategist and a scholar," Butterfree said. "After all, I've been accepted to all of the best schools from Kanto to Alola. Life's a big competition sometimes, and competing with other faceless Pokemon gets boring at times, so this show will be the ultimate test of my skills. It'll also give my brother something to do other than rot in jail while I work on getting enough money to bail him out. He gets… restless when he has nothing to do."
"Just know that both of us are threats," Butterfree said with narrowed eyes, not wanting to speak for any longer. "Make no mistake."
0000
"I hate social interaction. I hate idiots. I hate cheesy shows that exaggerate drama and create it out of nothing. I hate film lots," Liepard muttered. "If it weren't for the money…"
0000
Bellossom relaxed, looking around at his confessional. "Wow, I'm living the life of luxury here, eh? I'm a little overwhelmed."
"I guess the prize for winning this is money, yeah?" Bellossom asked. "I'll just donate it or something. Ha! Imagine me, winning?"
0000
Castform used his teeth to set up two mechanical arms to connect to his torso. "Good. Now I can stop picking up things with my mouth."
"I'll win," Castform said. "I've been to the future and all that. You may as well stop watching."
0000
"Confidence is key, y'all," Absol said with a wink. "I'll win this with sheer charisma, just you watch."
0000
"I-I'm not very good at communicating with others," Heliolisk managed to stutter out. "I hate it, but I can barely get through a sentence. It doesn't exactly make me most popular guy of the year."
"Maybe winning might change my reputation," Heliolisk said with a chuckle. "O-or at least a trip to the speech therapist."
0000
"It seems I have a lot to prove if I want the other's respect," Meowth said, allowing attendants to pamper him and clean his nails. "It'd probably be easier just to have them all executed, but the easy way out isn't very fulfilling."
His eyes narrowed. "I'm the prince of Persian for a reason, and I intend to show it."
0000
"I'm bad at making decisions," Rockruff said with a sad whine. "The voting ceremony is going to be hell."
0000
"I'm excited for an experience like this!" Shellder said, sticking out his tongue. "I'm not really the best with women, but hey, everyone faces roadblocks, right?"
"I may not win, but I'll put up a fight," he said, smiling. "Maybe Furret'll know a way to help me get rid of my phobia. He seems to know what he's doing…"
0000
"Okay, okay, I admit it!" Throh mumbled. "I don't like fighting at all. I've always wanted to be a tap dancer, but with my body…"
He let out a sigh. "But don't tell anyone! They'll boot me off so fast my head will spin!"
0000
"In truth I had no intention of speaking in a confessional," Gengar said. "It seems that this one is mandatory though, so I'll have to deal with that."
He cleared his throat. "I have no intention of losing this game, though I have no interest in the money. I guess in vaguest terms you could consider it a thirst to prove myself, but it goes deeper than that."
Gengar grinned. "I'll admit it, I'm teasing you all a little. In truth, I may not even last that long. Try not to get your hopes up; if I lose I'm sure there will be others deserving of attention."
0000
Sawk folded his arms. "Hey. I don't have a lot to say, other than to expect a team player out of me. I follow rules, and I think order is important in games like this."
"However, when the teams are destroyed and only few remain?" A cruel smile formed on Sawk's face. "I'll obliterate the enemy. Nobody will be left in my wake."
0000
"Plant Girl has a lot to prove," Lilligant said, applying makeup to her face. "She excels at everything and will continue to excel until victory is achieved. If she does not meet expectations set up by her older sisters, Plant Girl will be laughing stock of the family. Mistakes cannot be tolerated."
0000
"A new threat in the midst!" Rattata squawked (?). "Or so you would think!"
He ripped off his mask, revealing the face of none other than Pidgey. "I've deceived you! It is time for Pidgey to strike again! You may have doubted me before, but this time I will get revenge on this show and how I was cast aside, all under the guise of being the top percentage of Rattata! Mwahahahaha!"
0000
Yeah, Pidgey has returned for season two. Because everyone loved him, right? Why do I do this to myself?
I didn't enjoy writing this, I'll admit. I like the characters and I'm excited for the series, but this was absolute torture. I hope it isn't too crappy to you guys, but this chapter just did not do it for me. Hopefully this won't be a recurring theme.
Anyway, if you enjoyed, please leave a review telling me about your first impression of the characters! I'd love some feedback, especially from the writers of the OC's submitted, just as a check in.
Expect the next chapter soon. This will be one hell of a ride.
Editor's Note: Heyo! Premasaur here, dropping in with a quick hello. Much like with Total Pokkemon Island, I'll be working as the editor for Total Pokkemon Action, too. And this time I get to work for the entire series! So, if there's stupid grammatical mistakes, spelling mistakes, or other obvious mistakes that I miss in the dozen times I go through these chapters, feel free to shout at me all you want, for I work as the prime meat shield for those kinds of comments.
We hope you enjoy this series as much as the last one! Premasaur out!
Victini: Review! It's Season Two: Electric Boogaloo! Sorry, had to make that joke at least once, it's obligatory.