[Game thread] Skull Ruins Pokerole

[Dragonstrike]

Without looking away from the rock, Nathan replies, "I think I've got the idea.  Well, since you seem to know so much about the topic, how about when it comes to teaching them psychic type moves, like Confusion?  I wouldn't mind a few more ideas in that regard, particularly considering Ralts doesn't even HAVE any right now, and probably doesn't know a whole lot about using his psychic powers in the first place.  Aside from his 100% empathy, of course, which I'm sure you've noticed."  

As Nathan finishes saying this, the pokemon in the distance cries again.  Was it closer this time?  He still had one more question for Ventus after this one...he hopes he has enough time to ask it.  While not much of a question for Ventus himself, Nathan was curious to see how he would respond to it...

"Teaching Ralts Confusion would be relatively easy, given the rather strong bond it shares with you. All you have to do to help teach it is to mentally convey a sense of disorientation or 'mental sickness' for it to study, then ask it to 'pass' it along to another Pokémon or human. This way of teaching it usually causes the Psychic type to become a bit nauseous itself until it can succeful replicate the sensation in another target, but once it does the move comes much more easier to it than if it would learn it naturally. The experience even helps it learn moves of a similar nature, like Psychic or Psybeam, which is made more easy if the trainer can help them with those moves. Most typically can't, due to not having similar Psychic or empathetic ability as the Pokémon, but it certainly does not hurt to try."
 
As Ventus carefully explains how to teach Confusion, he notices that Nathan seems to be contempulating a particularly interesting question, judging by how pensive his expression has become. "Hmm? Is something the matter, Nathan? You don't have to hesitate to ask if that is the case. I always welcomes question from others, especially those that are eager to learn." While he says the, he discretely cheaks his surroundings for that noise. Its appears to be somewhat closer, so maybe he should wrap this up and get Nathan ready to head back down. Hopefully nothing bad happens, but if it danger comes, they shouldn't be here to meet it head on.

Nathan smirks, still looking at the rock.  "Ah, it's nothing of importance.  Just was wondering if you'd figured out why I haven't been completely giving you the cold shoulder despite your relatively bad first impression.  If you haven't yet, I'd suggest you think a little bit more about who gave you that Togepi egg in the first place, and why I might believe you aren't just making the whole story up.  Now then, I believe we should go.  Don't need whatever it is that's out there catching us unawares.  And when we get back, I'll even let you join me in our training session, if you wish.  Raphael's certainly going to need it."  

He stands up straight, and begins heading towards the path back to town...but not before one last look at the stone from over his shoulder.  Wait a second...was that a shadow in the trees that just moved?  It couldn't be that absol again, could it?  Had it been watching them this whole time?  And if it was an absol..."Yeah, we definitely need to move.  Let's get out of here quickly, but carefully.  Stay close behind me.  I have a bad feeling about this..."