Welcome to Cerynia

Welcome to Cerynia, a region nestled on Thalassia, to the west of the well-known continent of Pangeaia and closest to Galar. Cerynia has remained largely overlooked by the Pokémon world due to its distance from other regions and the absence of competitive Pokémon battles. This isolation has allowed the region to evolve in a unique way.

Cerynia boasts a rich history and owes its peaceful atmosphere to the legacy of Xerneas. Here, Pokémon battles are strictly forbidden. Instead, Pokémon are cherished as companions rather than mere tools for battle. The practice of confining them within Poké Balls is discouraged, with the balls primarily used for safekeeping or transportation in cases where other methods might be considered more cruel. This distinctive approach reflects the region's emphasis on respect, harmony, and ethical treatment of Pokémon.

Keep in mind

Our primary focus is on providing a relaxed and enjoyable Pokémon role-playing experience where players can shape their own narratives. We don't emphasise battles or levelling, leaving these aspects to the discretion of the characters themselves. Cerynia is designed to evolve with its members' preferences. If players express a desire for more structured gameplay, we can explore this. Alternatively, if freedom is preferred, flexible methods will be implemented to accommodate their creative choices. Every character and player choice has the potential to affect the world and its unfolding story.

RULES

Forum Rules

Respect your fellow RPGers.
Do not share explicit (18+) images. *
Keep your posts PG-13. R-rated (18+) content is strictly prohibited at all times. *
Multiple accounts are allowed, but do not spam the forum with inactive accounts.
Double posts are not allowed.
Post with the correct account in the RPG and RPG-related topics.
Advertising another forum is only allowed in the designated board.
Ensure that your sheets do not break. This includes breaking codes and oversized images.
Do not bother people about posting or potential relationships. A reminder/question is fine, but let it go if you are turned down.
Listen to the moderators and administrators, do not try to take on their role unless you are part of the team.

Character Rules

Your profile must be accepted if you have Pokémon/an affinity when starting out.
We do not use real photos for face claims. Art of all styles is allowed.
Register with the first and last name of your character. Feel free to abbreviate the name, especially for long names.

RPG Rules

Make your posts in proper English.
Legendary Pokémon cannot appear in a post at random. This is limited to events.
You can only create one Journey Thread per character per month. To create a new one, your previous one must be completed first.
You are only allowed to have three journeys at a time.
Do not pester an admin/moderator if you don't get what you want. Simply try again later.
Respect the setting and NPCs.
Your character is not perfect. You cannot win everything.
Controlling another character is not allowed. You cannot determine the extent of damage someone has or what a character does.
Trading (items, Pokémon, ect.) with your own characters is not allowed. You only interact with other characters.

PG Ratings

Certain topics must have an [M] in the topic title with a warning in the first post. This includes topics with references to sensitive subjects, sexual themes, or other sensitive topics. If in doubt, add it for safety.

Encouraged

Alcohol consumption and use, without specific mention of (soft) drugs.
Inflicting and describing minor injuries. Severe injuries are mentioned but not described.
Show don't tell for any kind of act.

Disencouraged

Describing sexual activities and naming the private parts themselves.
Describing severe injuries in gory details.
Naming the drugs used when it's anything other than soft drugs.

starting guide

Welcome to Cerynia, an open and dynamic Pokémon RPG with a flexible plot. To get started, follow these steps to create your character. If any questions arise, feel go to #Helpdesk in our Discord. We are more than happy to help you on your way.

Creating your character

Read our guidebook
Familiarise yourself with Cerynia's unique setting by exploring our overview. Additionally, understand for elements and learn how to obtain and .
Creating your Character
Register on the forum, creating one account per character. Use your character's first name and surname as your username, shortening the first name if necessary.
Claiming your faceclaim
Choose an anime-based face claim for your character, ensuring it is unique by checking our Faceclaim list.
Filling out your profile
Complete your character profile before diving into the RPG. This counts as your introduction, so an introduction post is not mandatory. While a novel isn't necessary, include essential information for both fellow roleplayers and yourself. (Link to an example profile can be found here: (LINK))

History of Cerynia

In the years 1721 to 1724, Cerynia was torn apart by internal conflict. The Cardinals, followers and servants of Yveltal, sought to annihilate the entire region, craving destruction that would spread throughout the world as Yveltal absorbed the energy of all in its path.

Peace only returned to Cerynia when Xerneas was awakened from its slumber, sacrificing all its energy to halt the chaos. To do so, Xerneas transformed into a tree, its roots absorbing the destruction and halting Yveltal, which also fell into a deep sleep, cocooned in rest.

A temple was initially constructed near the tree where people left offerings, praying for Xerneas's well-being and return to the world it had saved. Over time, Sanctum City developed around this magnificent tree, where people to this day leave flowers in respect.

The roots, seeping life energy, subtly altered the physiology of Cerynia's inhabitants, and later other inhabitants of the continent as well as the roots crept further. Humans became attuned to the elements, exhibiting affinities for traits reminiscent of Pokémon types. These individuals could perform minor magic, a talent that eventually became accepted as part of Cerynia's norm.

However, fear and uncertainty gripped the region. The power displayed by a single Pokémon prompted political shifts, leading to conflicts and debates. A consensus emerged: Pokémon were perceived as dangerous entities.

In response, a law was established in 1729, emphasising peaceful coexistence. Pokémon were no longer raised for battle - training, mega-evolutions, and the practice of sending young children on irresponsible journeys were all prohibited. Cerynia had chosen a path where nature would dictate the course once more, aiming for harmony between humans and Pokémon without conflict.

Present day Cerynia

Within the heart of Sanctum City, Pokémon have become a rare but integral part of daily life. A woman might be seen walking her Furfrou, Roselia assisting in grocery stores, or Rattata scavenging the streets. Yet, life has changed significantly. Traditional Pokémon battles have faded into the realm of video games and fiction, and gyms have shut their doors.

The University of Sanctum, marking its centenary in 2024, stands as a beacon of knowledge. Its renowned courses delve into Pokémon behaviour, evolution, and cohabitation. Students learn the art of living harmoniously with Pokémon, emphasising respect for their freedom and safety. These classes also instil vital skills, including safety protocols and handling dangerous situations. Many graduates choose to integrate Pokémon into their professions, using them for practical purposes, or become Rangers, safeguarding both Pokémon and people.

Yet, beneath the surface, darker undercurrents thrive. Pokémon in this underworld are pawns, forced to fight for survival in brutal rings where bets run high. With Pokémon Centers dwindling, wounded creatures are left untreated, hidden away from prying eyes. The authorities either struggle to locate these illicit battles or, perhaps worse, turn a blind eye to the cruelty unfolding in the shadows.

Politics

To keep the region of Cerynia flourishing and stable, multiple representatives run the region with their parties. These parties are chosen democratically and are given power by the people. The more votes a party receives, the more influence they will get in the government. The parties are as follows:

Avery Salvador

_{Synergy of Cerynia (SOC)}

Residence	Sanctum City
Age	43 years
Seniority	1864 days

Sakura Hibiki

_{Progressives of Sanctum (POS)}

Residence	Sanctum City
Age	39 years
Seniority	2555 days

Alyster Crone

_{Coalition of Mundane Essence (COME)}

Residence	Sanctum City
Age	38 years
Seniority	1095 days

Sylvia Tiuran

_{Elemental Alliance (EA)}

Residence	Sanctum City
Age	33 years
Seniority	1864 days

Aurelius Darrow

_{United Navigators of Xerneas (UNOX)}

Residence	Sanctum City
Age	29 years
Seniority	182 days

Journey threads

The opportunity for adventure awaits every month in the form of a Journey Thread. These moderated adventures allow players to explore the region and encounter Pokémon in unique and exciting ways. To embark on a journey, players simply need to create a post in their chosen location, detailing the setting and any specific encounters they wish to experience.

When starting a journey, players have the freedom to introduce certain Pokémon into their story, as long as it aligns with the creatures' natural habitats or can be justified by a creative narrative. However, it's important to note that while players have creative control, certain limitations apply. Legendary, Paradox, Mythical Pokémon, and Ultra Beasts cannot be introduced in the journey threads

Players can create heartwarming moments, like bonding with an ailing Pikachu abandoned by its owner, adding depth to their character's experiences. If the player does not choose to do so, the encounters will be decided by the on duty staff member.

To officially begin their journey, players must create a thread with [JOURNEY] at the start of the title and fill in a journey card. You can find this journey card here. In this journey card, you will fill in your wishlist. This wishlist is important, as it will give us a chance to give you something you want. After posting, they can create a Ticket in the specified Discord Channel. This ticket serves as a direct line of communication with moderators or administrators who will guide and moderate the journey.

Special encounters

During the adventure, players have the chance to encounter special Pokémon with unique traits or even rare shiny variants. Furthermore, journeys provide an opportunity to gain an affinity if the character does not have one already.

Handing out these special encounters is done by dice rolls. You will do these dice rolls yourself in the ticket you’ve created for your journey. Your chances of finding something you want increase with the amount of journeys you’ve done to find it. This means, you can get lucky at your first journey, but if you don’t, it will get easier to find what you want with each cumulative journey. Also, if your journey is particularly creative, your chances will increase as well.

Dangerous situations

Dangerous situations might occur during your journey. If you decide to chase danger, your character might even find themselves into mortal danger. A team member will always note when your character is about to enter a dangerous situation and give you the chance to move away from it. If you willingly still continue your path, your character will have a high chance to get hurt. While this might also yield some rewards, high rewards will have even higher risks.

Pokemon Raising

It's common knowledge that Pokémon have levels that determine their strength, the moves they learn, and when they can evolve. In Cerynia, the maximum level your Pokémon can attain is connected to the amount of experience your character has with the raising of Pokémon and the amount of time they spend with them. While you may determine the level of your character yourself, keep in mind that it needs to make sense with your character. Otherwise, you will be asked to lower the level of your character.

As Cerynians nurture their Pokémon, instead of battling with them, non-battlers will only be able to reach advanced as a maximum. Characters who battle illegally, can reach the level of expert. Master, as of now, is unattainable.

Level	Range
Novice	1-20
Intermediate	1-30
Proficient	1-40
Advanced	1-55
Expert	1-75
Master	1-100

Movesets

Pokémon Movesets are based on their latest available generation. Due to our level cap, Pokémon can't learn moves above level 60 for now, ensuring moves align with their strength within the cap. By practicing, Pokémon can learn moves like TMs.

Breeding

You are allowed to breed a pokemon once every 6 months. Special traits do not cross over from one species to the other. Every breeding results in one egg. The owner of the female in breeding is always the one who can choose the result of the breed.

Stone and Happiness evolutions

Evolution stones and items are exclusive to journeys; specify in your post if you're seeking one. Alternatively, Pokémon can evolve through happiness after participating in at least five topics.

Obtaining Pokemon

The way of obtaining Pokémon is very different in Cerynia than in the rest of the world. Due to the ban on Pokémon Battles in this region, Pokémon are often acquired by either buying them from certified breeders, adopting them from shelters or individuals, or bonding with them in nature. As a roleplayer, you have considerable freedom in how you acquire your Pokémon. If you wish to befriend an untraited, normal Pikachu, you are free to do so without a journey. The sole restriction imposed is the inability to acquire legendary, mythical, Paradox, and Ultra Beast Pokémon.

This means that new accounts can start with up to two Pokémon of choice. These Pokémon can, in addition to previously mentioned restrictions, not have traits and cannot be Shiny.

Magic Affinities Explained

Affinities

Everyone starts with an affinity to nothing, a ‘normal’ affinity, the mundane. Some people, however, are lucky (or unlucky) enough to find themselves with a new affinity. While the strength of this does not equal even the weakest Pokémon, it opens up new bonds with Pokémon of these types. It gives people small power and a better understanding.

There are four ways to gain a new affinity:

By bloodlines. Each affinity has a place it comes from, families or regions where people are generally more likely to be born with such an affinity.
By place of birth in rare cases.
By certain events in one's life, an affinity can be gained.
Granted by an elder Pokémon.

You can decide your character has an affinity from an event in their past, but you can also leave it open and have it happen during your journeys. If you pick an affinity from the start, you will miss out on other possibilities.

Most people start with the default affinity. You are, however, allowed to start with an affinity related to your bloodline or place of birth, as long as it fits the lore. Event-only abilities can not be picked for new characters.

Note: Keep in mind that these affinity descriptions are just suggestions and stereotypes. We encourage creative freedom in how these affinities relate to an individual's personality. While abilities should remain weak compared to Pokémon’s abilities, it's not mandatory for every Fire affinity type to display a temper, for example.

Default/Mundane

Normal

Bloodline/Place of Birth

Fire, Water, Grass, Ice, Flying, Electric, Ground, Rock, Steel

Special Event

Fighting, Poison, Psychic, Bug, Ghost, Dragon, Dark, Fairy

affinity types

Normal Congratulations, you’re normal! For now. There’s nothing out of the ordinary when it comes to those with the Normal affinity. It’s the default, the mundane - everyone is born with it, until proven otherwise. Devoid of flashy powers or special abilities, Normal affinities might seem a tad dull. But fear not, for a path of endless possibilities still lies at their fingertips. If they dare to wander outside of their comfort zone, those with a Normal affinity might just find what they are looking for. Will it be the daunting and intimidating Dragon type? Will it be the resilient and strong FIghting type? Or will the Normie wander a path of light and gain Xerneas’ blessing? Thread carefully, however, for dangerous affinities linger in the shadows - and once a connection has been made, it can not be undone.

+ Nothing special

- Nothing out of the ordinary

Fire A spark within is what sets the Fire affinities apart from the ordinary. With an innate connection to Fire, these people radiate a gentle warmth which comforts and soothes others like a crackling hearth on a winter’s night. In their presence, the air itself shimmers with a subtle heat, creating an aura that draws others in like moths to a flame. Nonetheless, those bound to Fire struggle to control their feelings, especially when it comes to reigning in their temper - their blood runs hot, after all. To be connected to the Fire affinity is to navigate a sea of emotions, where every wave is a flicker, every surge a blaze. Proceed carefully, for the flame that defines you can both illuminate and consume.

+ Control heat, fire resistant, control and create small embers.

- Affected by cold weather.

Water Like the push and pull of the tides, people with the water affinity are often quite balanced people. With the ability to hold their breath for long periods of time and pull small amounts of water from the air, these people are naturally connected to the water. While often seen as quite tranquil, like shimmering waves on a sunny day, they can have a stormy and violent side to them as well. Nevertheless, with their ability to clean small wounds and assist in their healing with water, they are often seen as natural healing.

+ Pull small volumes of water out of air and manipulate it. Clean and heal small wounds.

- Easily dehydrated, can drown in the storm of their emotions

Grass A blossoming spirit is what sets the Grass affinities apart from the ordinary. With an innate connection to nature and growth, these individuals exude a calming presence akin to the gentle rustle of leaves in a verdant forest. In their company, the air seems to carry the freshness of morning dew, and an aura of vitality envelops those around them, drawing others in like bees to nectar and promoting growth among nature. However, those bound to the Grass affinity often grapple with balancing their emotions, much like the delicate sway of branches in the wind. Their hearts beat in harmony with the pulse of life, after all. Proceed thoughtfully, for the growth that defines you can nurture and flourish, yet also entangle and overwhelm.

+ Can stimulate the growth of plants. Natural green thumb. Pleasant and calming presence to others.

- Can feel disconnected and overwhelmed in areas without plant life. Often quite sensitive.

Flying A light-hearted spirit is what sets individuals with a Flying affinity apart from the rest. With a natural connection to the skies and winds, these people exude a sense of freedom and buoyancy, much like a gentle breeze on a clear day. In their presence, the air seems to shimmer with a playful energy, creating an aura that beckons others to embrace spontaneity and adventure, just like kites in the sky. However, those bound to the Flying affinity often grapple with maintaining focus, particularly in the face of distraction—the call of exploration is always in the air, after all. To be linked to the Flying affinity is to soar through endless skies, where every gust is a thrill, every breeze a possibility. Proceed with an open heart, for the air that defines you can carry you to great heights, yet it may also scatter your intentions like leaves in the wind.

+ Can levitate above the ground, and manipulate small gusts of wind.

- Overestimating their powers to ‘levitate’ can lead to dangerous, and life-threatening, falls.

Fighting Individuals with the Fighting affinity epitomize strength and endurance. Their physical prowess surpasses the average person, allowing them to deliver powerful blows and endure prolonged exertion without succumbing to exhaustion. Fueled by their confidence, they fearlessly confront challenges, embodying both bravery and assertiveness. While their assertive nature may lead to frequent skirmishes, it also showcases their readiness to stand up for their beliefs. Their personalities are marked by a potent blend of strength and courage, making them natural leaders who inspire others through their actions and unwavering spirit.

+ Physically stronger and better endurance than others. Can push over their own limits.

- They feel limitless, which they are not. Often overexert themselves and get hurt or over exhausted.

Poison The Poison affinity bestows upon its bearers not only a toxic touch but also a venomous tongue, akin to a metaphorical serpent weaving through conversations. Their journey is one of subtle artistry, where every touch is a choice, every venomous whisper a potential balm. Their conversations are laced with subtlety, capable of both charming and ensnaring, depending on the intention behind their speech. They embody a delicate balance, their essence entwined with both danger and healing. The poison they wield isn't merely a weapon; it's a nuanced tool, capable of harming or mending, depending on the intent behind its use.

+ Immune to minor poison and lethal poisons are survivable. They can poison or purify substances.

- Their touch holds a certain danger; when not careful, poison can leak accidentally.

Electric Their quickness and vigor set those with an Electric affinity apart. Their lively personalities are marked by an infectious enthusiasm that electrifies every room they enter. Yet, this power comes with a caveat: a single misstep could fry appliances, a testament to their need for cautious control. Despite occasional shocks, their approachable demeanor and electric charm make them magnetic and approachable. These individuals exude a natural warmth, energizing not only themselves but also those fortunate enough to be in their presence. With their lively and vivacious nature, they become beacons of positivity.

+ Quick to regain stamina when depleted. Can create small electric shocks. If controlled well enough, they can give charge to small electronic devices.

- Might accidentally release electric energy, giving off static shocks or even frying appliances.

Ground Like the unyielding earth beneath their feet, people with the Ground affinity exude a sense of stability and reliability. Calm and composed, they navigate life's challenges with patience and resilience. They are practical and pragmatic, approaching situations with a level-headedness that often brings reassurance to those around them. Their personalities are rooted in a deep sense of responsibility and loyalty, making them dependable friends and confidants. With an innate ability to find strength in adversity, they inspire others with their unwavering determination and unwavering support.

+ Sensitive to tremors in earth and can loosely determine a creature’s weight and direction. Tire less from walking in loose sand.

- Often scared of flying or swimming. Not having the ground beneath their feet feels like something is missing.

Rock There are few things as stable and unmoving as a rock formation. The same can be said of a person attuned to rock. While a rock might be seen as rather mundane or even boring, one shouldn’t forget that gemstones are also rocks and that geodes also hold beautiful centers. Nobody can deny that people with a rock affinity are often seen as a pillar of strength that others can rely on. While often mentally stable and resilient, these people are also often incredibly durable. Mishaps that might severely injure someone or break some bones, could lead to some sprains to someone attuned to the rock element.

+ Resilient and stable, not easily hurt. Natural sense of what might be beneath a rock layer, excellent archaeologists and miners.

- Often seen as mundane and easily overlooked. When hurt, they do heal slowly.

Psychic The Psychic affinity grants its bearers an ethereal and empathic nature, setting them apart as intuitive souls in the tapestry of affinities. Although perceived as quirky or odd, there's a mysterious allure to their presence. They possess an innate ability to sense the unseen. Despite the enigmatic aura that surrounds them, those with the Psychic affinity are characterized by their gentle and compassionate souls. They possess a depth of insight that guides them through life, making them adept at deciphering the mysteries of the human heart. These individuals embody a harmonious blend of intuition, compassion, and discipline.

+ Might get flashes of future events or strong emotions by touching someone or something. Can move small objects with their minds if practiced.

- Visions and emotions enter their mind unwillingly.

Ice Embraced by the chill of winter, those attuned to Ice can be as comforting as a snowy landscape. While this affinity is often linked to the unforgiving cold, individuals bound by it embody not only rigidity, but also the crystalline beauty and serene resilience found in frozen landscapes. In stark contrast to their fiery counterparts, Ice affinities are cold to the touch, possessing a demeanor as crisp and brisk as the wintry air itself. With an innate ability to freeze small surfaces at will and conjure frost from their fingertips, those aligned with Ice are not merely immune to the cold; they thrive in it.

+ Create small surfaces of ice and frost, cold-resistant, freezing temperatures.

- Vulnerable to heat.

Bug Individuals with the Bug affinity epitomize adaptability and curiosity, mirroring the nimbleness of the insects they are attuned to. Curious and observant, they approach the world with wonder, constantly seeking to uncover hidden marvels. Their personalities, like the insects they direct, are marked by an innate sense of harmony and cooperation. They are skilled collaborators, understanding the power of unity, and are quick to adapt to diverse social situations. Their tenacity and inquisitive nature make them adept problem-solvers, embracing challenges with calm determination and an unyielding belief in their ability to find innovative solutions.

+ Good climbers, fingers are less slippery. Sensing incoming danger.

- Can seem uncanny to other people, are also quite fragile.

Ghost Individuals with the Ghost affinity possess a mystic sensitivity that shapes their unique personalities. Their keen perception extends to sensing spirits and imminent mortal danger, endowing them with an uncanny awareness of life's fragility. These talents, however, come at a price—often, they feel haunted, their minds conjuring illusions that blur the lines between reality and imagination. This constant dance with the supernatural fosters a deep introspection, molding them into contemplative souls comfortable with life's mysteries. They navigate the world with a compassionate understanding of both the seen and unseen, embodying a delicate balance between the ethereal and the tangible.

+ Sense spirits. Sense when people are in danger/about to die. Generate small illusions.

- Fragile minds often feel haunted or see things that aren’t there.

Steel The Steel affinity bestows upon its bearers a resolute spirit and unshakable demeanor. Calm in the face of chaos, they embody patience and poise, navigating challenges with a steady resolve. Much like the steel they manipulate, they possess emotional fortitude, enduring pressure with unwavering steadfastness. They remain unyielding under pressure, their steadfastness becoming a source of inspiration for others. With a determined spirit and an exceptional ability to inspire, those with the Steel affinity become guiding beacons, illuminating the path with their quiet determination, indomitable resilience, and a stubbornness akin to the unbending nature of metal.

+ Resistant to electric shocks. High emotional fortitude. Have an uncanny sense of direction and a knack for navigation.

- Susceptible to heat, often unbending and stubborn, can get migraines and confused within strong magnetic fields.

Dragon With a Dragon affinity, one exudes an aura of innate authority, often unintentionally emanating dominance and intimidation. This inherent connection extends beyond humans, reaching the usually elusive dragon type Pokemon. They possess an intuitive bond, effortlessly communicating with these majestic creatures. Despite their imposing presence, those aligned with the Dragon affinity carry a profound sense of loyalty and protectiveness. Much akin to the dragons they connect with, they fiercely guard their loved ones and stand unyielding in the face of challenges. Their assertiveness stems from an unshakeable determination, making them natural leaders and staunch allies within the intricate tapestry of affinities.

+ Communicate with dragons and gain their respect. Enhanced physical strength and resilience.

- Intimidating presence, often viewed as aggressive or unapproachable.

Dark Individuals attuned to the Dark affinity possess a shadowed nature, often misunderstood and judged by appearances alone. Their existence is marked by a constant dance between light and darkness, embodying the duality of their affinity. This duality grants them an uncanny ability to navigate the complexities of morality, understanding that light and dark are not absolute, but rather shades of the same spectrum. Their insight into the human psyche makes them astute observers, capable of discerning hidden truths beneath surface appearances. While they may be perceived as enigmatic or elusive, those with the Dark affinity harbor a profound understanding of the intricacies of the human soul, embracing both the light and shadow within themselves.

+ Can blend into shadows and darkness. Heightened senses in low light. Can sense fear in others.

- Often misunderstood, prone to melancholy or bouts of introspection.

Fairy Individuals with the Fairy affinity exude a whimsical charm, enveloping the world in an aura of magic and wonder. Their presence is akin to a fairy tale, where enchantment and reality intertwine seamlessly. They possess a profound connection to nature, nurturing both flora and fauna with their innate ability to promote growth and vitality. Their empathic nature allows them to understand the unspoken language of the natural world, fostering harmony wherever they go. While their hearts are brimming with compassion, they also possess a fierce protectiveness, defending the beauty and innocence they see in the world. With an unwavering belief in the power of love and kindness, those attuned to the Fairy affinity embody the enchanting spirit of the mystical realm.

+ Can promote growth and vitality in plants and animals. Understand the language of nature and animals.

- Overly trusting, prone to manipulation due to their compassionate nature.

START!

REGION

GAME MECHANICS