[Game thread] Skull Ruins Pokerole

[PhantomUnderYourDesk]

The fire was cozy and warm, Braixen did quite a well job. However, Shiva did absolutely not expect to startle Ven THAT much by enlighting the twigs and kindlings with her Pokemon's help, so the chuckling rather soon lowered out and got replaced with just a tad bit of remorse. Maybe it reminded him too much on Fire Magic... If so, Mystical Fire will likely scare him from the day on her fox learns that graceful move.

Shiva averted to face the researcher - some ordinary strub nearby was way more interesting - as some faint blush arose over the happening, placed one hand behind back and adjusted one strand of hair into place, all as a excuse to hide that biting feels. Unwillingly, she looked adorably cute and innocent like that. "Eh... I'm sorry for startling you THAT much... Wasn't my intention to do so... You were there busy, and I decided to speed up the process a little with a Fire Type.... you know... (What a good moment to level up on either Stealth or Allure. Or both~ But I'm collecting for more Vitality.)"

Luckily Nathan arrived at the scene just as the situation was about to become too awkward. He mumbled something about heading to bed early, and by the look he was giving, he looked rather exhausted. More emotionally drained than physically tired if Shiva would have to guess, but likely both was right. Was the issue with the happenings inside Gym before Chuckles could arrive still riling in him? At least he doesn't seem to be mad that she and Ventus went to examinate a Wobbuffet and took their time to reunite.

She also noticed that glance Kirlia was giving her before he joined Master inside the tent. It was just a quick glance, but she got the feeling that there was so much that the Psychic-Fairy was saying without speaking it out... (@Iron, you want to make an Insight Roll whether Shiva understands what Kirlia wants to tell her? If not, she can only assume things.)

As soon as Nathan has arrived  and practically speaking left already, she found back the courage to face Ven. "Oh... Looks like it'll be one person less for dinner. Let me serve dinner to my Pokemon first, then I can help you cooking..."

Additionally to the usual batch of dried berries and Dry food, she also placed that Pink Apricorn Nut onto the orchid-patterned plate before calling out all her Pokemon - and gently puling Cherubi out of Cottonee's fluff - and sliding the plate over to them to enjoy dinner. If one of her Pokemon would react in either way to the pink Apricorn, Shiva will notice. After dinner, Cherubi will be registered to a Pokeball and sent to Bill's PC with the assurance that this will shield her from hungry bird Pokemon in the area.

Now with that wrapped up, she came over to Ventus and helped preparing whatever he was preparing for dinner. Thinking of bird Pokemon, there were so many of them in the current area, that snatching one in case the food storage would get dangerously low wouldn't make such a loss, would it...? It wouldn't be much different from what a predator Pokemon does several times a day or night, but it'll have to be mostly Ventus who would prepare it since he was clearly the better one when it came to surviving in the wild.

"Oh, almost forgot... Hehe, you're not that wrong in your assumption that something pleasant happened while your were briefly absent. In fact, maybe you spotted my new addition to team already? It's that small Cherubi over there..." *she points to it* "Lil' one was hanging around on a whithering cherry tree, and I couldn't just leave it there with all the Pidgeys and Hoothoot and whatelse around. There are more birds than the last time we were in Fireweed Forest, don't you think...? Maybe mating and breeding season has started while we were busy in Corsage." ... "Eh, anyway, that Cherubi decided to come with me, and I was up to care for it. Another Grass Type!~ I...didn't took it with force, like those who took...well, you know. What did you call your Wobbuffet again? Me too was thinking about a good nickname for such a cherrylike Pokemon... 'Nightshade' sounds nice, another name for thep plant family of Solanaceae." Screw everything, Shiva was enjoying the thought of naming her Cherubi like that. ^^

He mentioned Psychic Types... Oh, right, his newest Team Member was Psychic, too. Slight embarrassment emerged as he commented how she collected quite a few exemplars of that elusive Type by now. "You're...actualy right on that, by now I own and Abra, an Espurr and that modified Roggenro - I'm sorry, Comite - being Psychic, and Braxen will gain this type as soon as he reaches his Final Form of a Delphox. Thanks to you, Kyuu - Espurr - even learned Confusion, thank you for that again! All of them are somewhat my Counter against nasty Poison Types - nothing 'gainst Apsis, I knwo you can handle that Arbok and prevent it from harming any of our Pokemon, but... just in case we run into anything toxic. They should be able to protect me and my Fairies, so I gladly hear what you can tell about the handling and raising of Psychic Type... I believe other than fairies, they connect to their owner's mind that actual feelings, but their mind-altering powers can be just as strong, can they?"

Shiva was uncommonly chatterboxy currently... Well, hopefully this doesn't put Ventus into too much worries for her mental state.

[Lord Windos]

Ventus just gave her a small smile, and nodded his head, before he got started to setting up dinner for themselves, Shiva, and his Pokémon. When Shiva was finished serving her Pokémon their nightly meal, she came and helped him, but there wasn't much she could do, since he was making a simple stew out of the rations available on hand. 'Still, the thought is appreciated, and its nice to cook with someone for a change. Perhaps she can show me a few tricks I don't know, and make tonight's dinner even tastier than before!' he thought, humming a little song to himself as dinner progressed.

Shiva soon unveiled the source of happiness: A Cherubii! Internally, the researcher appetite was further arosed by the sweat cherry Pokémon, but he quicky quashed the thought. He had the very strong suspicious feeling that revealing his love of sweets would only cause problems, nor the fact that he is not opposed to the idea of eating Pokémon.... "Fantastic catch, Shiva! You have a strong natural charm about you, so persuading Pokemon into your care seems especially appropriate, don't you think? I didn't think Cherubi would be found within the Cheshire region, but this place appears the type to contain the widest variety of surprises, from what we encountered. The odd Pokémon here or there, like my Wobbuffet Abaddon," he said, placing emphasis on his newest addition's name so that the young lass could remember. " certainly makes exploring this region exciting and an ever unfolding adventure....thought we all could certainly do without the drama we encountered along the way. As for names for the Cherubi....Prunus avium is an appropreiate name, if you want to stay tree to its nameshake. Cahethal would also be well suited, since that is the name of the seraphim over agriculture. What you decide upon is up to you, but these are just a few of my suggestion, so take them or leave them, my friend," the researcher said, give a lovely smile to her and the living cherry she own. He may not be able to eat it, but oh well...

He was delighted that Shiva accepted his proposal, and paid no mind to her comments about Apsis- he knew the affect his giant snake had on other that were not well aquanted with her or held a dislike of the species- , and he briefly closed his eyes to dredge up the memory of the conversation. A few minutes later, he finally had it all together, but then another idea popped in his head that caused him ponder a bit more, before he her decided to starting with it. It would serve as an excellent prelude to the main bulk of his lecture!


"Before I begin, I want to preface this discussion of mine with a simple reminder, for both me and you: not all Psychic Pokémon are created equal, or operate in remotely similar ways in some cases. Abaddon, for instance, is a rather poor example of the mental prowess that the type typically displays, but he can still communicate with his Telepathy to us, and can conjure up Mirror Coat as a psychic shield of sorts. Other Pokémon, like Gallade or Slowbro, are far more offensively or defensively oriented than the average Psychic type usually is, but any trainer can train their Pokémon to be whatever role they want to fulfill. Its just that these Pokémon are FAR more suited to the battle style geared around their strengths than most other Psychics. Psychic Pokemon, perhaps more than most other types, tend to specialize into niche roles or one battle style or another, rather than follow a specific archtype. This even include Nathan's Kirlia, as while its is now empathetic exemplar of its primary typing, it can evolve into either a Gallade and become a far more battle oriented than before, or a Garvodour and begin showing its Fairy nature far more apparently. Keep this in mind when training any Psychic-or perhaps even others- types, and you will be more prepared to deal with them than most. With out of the way, let's get into the topic at hand: Psychic types, the specific about their bond to their trainer, and how to care for them."

"My time at Unova University had me acquainted with the myriad facets of Pokémon while getting my double major. A few classes were all about how to deal with the many Pokémon; Remedial and Advanced Pokémon Handling, if I recall, were all about learning handle and care for the many Types and Species. From my knowledge, raising a Psychic type is a rather...tricky prospect for most." 

"Proper rearing of Pyschic types require being in tune with the Pokémon in question. Like light shining through a prism,- I wish I had not given it to that vile Vespiqueen- a trainer's mood shines through the Pokémon, greatly affecting their attitude and overall growth. A happy go-lucky trainer is more likely to influence their Psychic to become carefree and energetic, while a person with insidious intentions will end creating a rather mal-adjusted and vicious Pokémon. " 

"A trainer's mood is also important to consider when around Psychic types, for both obvious reasons and less... intuitive ones. Trainers in good moods pass on that positively, bolstering their Pokémon effectiveness. This is especially true with Psychics, as their strong mental acuity make them even more receptive. While this can allow a Psychic to be even more effective with a receptive trainer, a closed off or moody trainer..." Ventus grimaced as an painful memory arose from the depths of his mind, before he violently shoved it back into the darkness; he didn't want to remember such a tragic event...

"Well, it will fair rather poorly. A especially insular person will have great trouble raising a Psychic type, as the Pokémon is practically cut off from their main pillar of support, and an abusive trainer...well, I rather not discuss it. ." Ventus smile turned extremely bittersweet as he finished. "I have a feeling, though, that you know as well as I do about that subject, so let not dwell on the dark side of Pokémon Training. "

Taking a deep breath, he wrapped up his lecture. "The bond between a Pokémon and a trainer is important, but its absolutely tantamount to caring for a Psychic type. It take a person incredible control of with incredible control over their emotional state not to severely affect a Psychic's personality and disposition, and it require them to be quite attentive to their partner needs in order to prevent them from spiriling downward. Its why researchers and professional trainers alike consider them to be some of the toughest Pokémon to properly raise and train; only Dragon, Ghost, and Fairy types are consider tougher to trained. Most people who own Psychic types are Mediums themselves, or people who are especially empathetic, such as myself."

"My naturely empathy towards others is extremely high, to the point some people consider me outright Psychic for my abnormal perception. It certainly helps me communicate with Pokémon more than the average person, that for sure. Its part of the reason why I know so much about Psychic types, as I got assigned to work with them and other Pokémon studies more due to my high empathy. I have dozens of stories related to my research, but I digress. You only asked my expertise on Psychic themselves, not my personal experience with them."

He sighed, a little out of breath from all the talking he has done. This lecture he made was quite the mouthful, but it was imperitive he shared it in its entirety with Shiva. Out of everyone else in the group, she has the most Psychic types to care for and train, so they should be armed with all the knowledge and information to make her monumental task both pleasant and bearable. "With all that said, do you need me to clarify anything for you? I went through into a lot of detail, so it helps to review over it to let it sink in."

[PhantomUnderYourDesk]

Oh, if one's on travel, you can't afford to be picky about what to eat. At least there IS something to eat, and Ven's cookery was anything else than bad. Nevertheless, mental note to take more storage of various things to eat from the next Pokemon Center. There at home in Castelia, some of the groceries are open 24 hours a day...

There was something weird in the glance Ventus gave her Cherubi, yet she couldn't see nor guess what it was. Well, she shruged that off, maybe it was better this way... The saying that Shiva has a strong natural charm on her was flattering, especially when it came from...eh...him. How adorable. Wait a moment, was it that 'natural charm' that made him act weirdly around her occassionally, or rather when she came too close? She didn't know... It's a possibility, in the very end. Anyway, since he had begun to act relatively normal around her for some time being, so things should be alright. This meant she didn't do something wrong that might have hurted or embarrased him?

It was neat and pleasant to see how he rejoiced for her new catch. "Hehe... I didn't expected that, but I fear your are right that some of that natural grace I get complimented ocassionally does affect wild Pokemon as well. In fact, I stopped counting how many Pokemon joined me on their free will instead of battling them first before attempting a catch... Not that catching them that way is wrong, it's just...a different method. I feel a Pokemon might not always be happy to be dragged out off its natural habitat by a human. Like that Corsola of yours, maybe? I didn't had the feeling that it, I'm sorry for that, was very fond of you there at the Healer in Wineberry where we encountered that guy with the Pinsir. But that can be soothed by being a good owner, to some degree..."

"Oh, I thought of Avium as well... 'Prunus avium' is too long. Like, imagine saying that when being forced to give fast orders in battle... But Avium sounds too much like a bird or at least flying, so no.  Cahethal sounds alright, I also thought about some other deities, but...I believe I'll stay by 'Nightshade'...Anyway, thanks for your suggestions..." He received a coy, yet dear and appreciating smile.

She was also eager to listen closely to what he had to say about Psychic Types... But before that... "Wait a moment, your Wo...Abbadon has telepathy? Whoahw.... that surely explains that brief yet weird imagines I thought I imaginated as we encountered it... Nevermind, in that case, it only increases the rarity of your newest Team Member. If I'm not mistaken, that's a very VERY rare trat to find on wild Wobbuffet. I'm...sure you'll be able to handle that trait of his given the empathic skills you own, right?"

He mentioned Gallade... Nathan mentioned he wished for Kirlia to evolve into that one right? "I see... Well, honestly, a Gallade is more of a Fighting Type to me, or it uses that leftovers of Psychic Type in it to battle physically. That's rather rare for the type of Psychics, I was always wondering about that... But from what you are saying, it strongly depends how the Trainer raises the Psychic Type, right? If one'd take more care of the mental powers, you'd more likely get a Guardevoir. If more on the melee plus you can get the matching stone to trigger evolution, a Gallade. Sounds logical..."

Actually, Shiva got the feeling that she was indeed in tune with most of her own Pokemon, or about to get things into that direction. It seemed like a good base to deal with the Psychic Type. Magical Fox has grown a fondness for her, Kyuu likely saw her a person who came to the dream just in the right time when the Delta Houndour were after it, and to Helios she has formed what seemed to be a mental bond. Or was forming and strengthening.

"So..." Se said as soon Ventus finished his lecture and was cathing up on breath... "You mean, in order to care well for a Psychic Pokemon's mental state and keep it's powers healthy and vivid, the owner does have to keep their own mental state healthy and vivid as well? Sounds reasonable... It means I can't effort to let the gloom and self loath win over me, does it..." This pained her a little, given her mental state received a crack not that long ago, but she felt over the time it'll lower out and no lasting damage will be suffered. She had enough possibilities and methods to prevent that, and felt like if she'll regain her former self to that degree where no significant differences will be noticeable. It was a lie that a depression would ever fully heal, maybe at some point she could talk to Ven about that and the longer health effects concerning that...

"As for emotional state and mindset, both is strong and open in me, so I'm...not worried that I'd 'cut them off of their main pillar of support'. Would you agree on that? You, uhm, know me well and good enough by now to determine and I trust you'd be honest in answering..."

At some point, Kyuu came over to Shiva, asking for pets. Nothing new about that, so she lifted the young Espurr up to be close to her in her arms. That reminded her on another thing, and she faced Vnetus one again, this time with a more question expression. "Besides... You mentioned you were to work with Psychic Types a lot during studying. Did you too noticed that there's a big difference in the amount of psychic powers or energy differenr Psychic Types seem to posess? Like, take lil' Espurr here... Watch this..." Very very softly, Shiva petted over one of the folded ears of the grey cat. Almost immediately, Kyuu raised a paw and placed it on the ear she stroked, while giving out a slightly concerned and uncomfortable *meow* "Saw this? I bet you know that kept beneath the ears of Espurr and Meowstic lies the source of their huge psychic power. There is no significant difference in the amount of psychic power Espuur and it's evolution have, the difference is that Espurr is not in control of its powers and prefers to keep them safely hidden beneath his folded ears. Well, without a Trainer to help on that... "

Helios, meanwhile, was snoozing nearby. "My Abra however, Helios, is developing his psychic powers. The basics are present, but it relies on the Trainer to provide the possibilieties and surrounding for them to flourish. I'm working on this, and I feel we have made some good process so far... the psychic powers of an Alakazam can be terrifying if in the wrong hands. However, I'm trying to develope them into a good and positive direction, so that he can use them to benefit and protect us and use them actively in battle..."

Wait a moment... Alakazam, Abra, there was something about that. And Shiva relatively fast remembered what it was, so she faced Ventus with another curious, yet cautious view. He lectured about Psychic Types in General, but not especially... She spoke in a lower tone now, careful not to hit any sensitive spots without warning. "Ven... You once said something about an Abra someone in your family had... If... it doesn't hurt you too much to let me know, can you... uhm...tell me a little about how they raised their Abra? What did they do to evolve it to a Kadabra? I know it has a lot to do with the alpha waves in the brains of the Pokemon, but how do I get Helios to develope that awareness of them so that he can emitt them on will..."

[Iron]

Kirlia does not devote much time to Shiva now, despite the circumstance of his evolution.  So Shiva can only guess what he's thinking.

When Shiva places the pink apricorn as the centrepiece, Kyuu immediately jumps onto the table to bat at it. Helios.opens his eyes to watch his antics. Braixen nabs it to inhale the sweet scent.

Cherubi is to shy for you to know if it reacts.  Cottonee, perhaps surprisingly, ignores the nut.



Shiva and Ventus gain 1xp.

[Lord Windos]

Ventus gave an understanding nod, taking a few bites of food as he mulled over his answer, before he responsed. "Each and every trainer has their own methods of capturing, training, and fighting Pokémon, and while some methodologies can be inhumane or cruel, they are all valid in the end. Persuading Pokémon to join your team, rather than fighting them or bribing them with some resource, is a rather fruitful strategy if you can consistently do it, as you have extremely happy and loyal Pokémon that are usually adjusts to trainer life in an expedient manner. In my case, I employ persuasion, battling, bribery, emotional appeal, sympathetic appeal....really anything that would help me capture a Pokémon. Unfortunately, in Ariel's case, our first imperssions were not stellar, and she has been somewhat resentful of my command ever since. She's perfectly happy, don't be mistaken about that, its just that if her Pokeball were smash or deactivated....I imagine she'd make a beeline to the nearest body of water to resume her old life. In time, things will improve between us, but I'm taking things slowly with her for now. Hopefully I'll be able to assimilate them into my family in due time..."

The researcher was unfazed by his cute dear friend softly rejecting his name choice, as he was just offering his own opinion on the matter, and was not too invested in regards to Cherrubi's ultimate name, and just smiled at her. When she brought up Abaddon's rare ability, Ventus didn't share her joy in that regards entirely, and just clicked with his tonge in disappointment , somewhat discontent about the discovery. "Telepathy is normally a nice ability, especially for an empath like me, but on Wobbuffet its less than...optimal. Shadow Tag, while the more common on the species, is far more desirable, as the ability to instantly trap all but Ghost types, Pokemoon holding a Shed Shell, or possessing the moves U-turn and Volt Switch is extremely powerfull. On Abaddon, it also increase their effectiveness exponentially, as anything it switches into is trapped with no recourse, and when combined with Charm, Encore, Counter, Mirror Coat, and Destiny Bond, it has to power to take anything down, given good odds and a fair chance. I'll see if I can't coax that power out of them eventually, as it will prove quite useful in the long run," he said, before he took a deep breath and began his lecture and its prelude.

At Shiva's first question, Ventus shook his head, and proceeded to correct her on this assumption. "No. While a trainer can indeed try to make a martial artist out of a Alakazam, such a descision would be pure folly at worst, or just stubbornly misguided at best. Each Pokémon are capable fighters in their own right, but have their own niches, roles, or battle styles that, while customizable and flexible to an extent, clearly define the Pokémon. Gallade and Alakazam are both primarily Psychic types, but they both have well defined specialties that make them distinct, unique intities, even compared to their previous evolutions. One is about pure telekinetic power and exercising it with their full ability, while the other uses their to augement their fighting style and enhance its abilities in melee. If you had a Kirlia that trained to be a Gallade, but ended up evolving into a Garvadour, the psychic has to more or less adapt its fighting style to their new evolution's powers, rather than the other way around, and vice versa. Each unique species of Pokémon are unique, Shiva, and therefore must be uniquely handled to an extent in order to get the most out of their power."

Hearing her next questions and detecting a strong undercurrent of discontent and worry, the empath reached out and gently grabbed their hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze. "Shiva, despite how tumultchtous your mental state has been since we entered Corsage, you are more than sound of mind and spirit to properly command Psychic type Pokémon. You have so much passion and affection for your Pokémon, and care deeply for them with all your heart. Even with the occasional dip in positivity and emotional stability, you have forged a strong, loving connection between them and you that its almost impossible for them to feel they are without you. Prolonged and severe depression would certainly negatively affect your Pokémon in the end, but as long as you have us and are properly monitoring/treating your condition, I highly doubt things would ever become that severe. Have faith in your abilities, my friend, for you are a truly remarkable individual..." Ven said, giving one last squeeze before removing his hand from hers.

His friend next question and demonstration caused him to wince a bit, and gave her an uncomfortable look. "Shiva, please don't mess with Kyuu's ears like that. I know your intentions were well meaning, but an Espurr's ears are highly sensitive organs that are the only things keeping its power in check. One wrong, errant move, and you could have done serious harm to both them and yourself, so please refrain from doing that in the future," the researcher chided, being gentle with his remonstration, but none of the less did so anyway. He didn't want her to get in the bad habit of doing that, after all. Once things settled down from that, he proceeded to properly answer her initial question. "As with all other types of Pokémon, certain Psychic types are stronger than others, some are weaker, with the rest having a mix of traits and abilities that makes them 'average', compared to others of its kin. Abaddon, for example, is a supremely weak Psychic type, and if it was not for its Telepathy, the only Psychic power to its name would be Mirror Coat. Alakazam, on the other hand, is one of the strongest Psychic types in existence, surpassed by only a few other specific cases. Both, however, are frighteningly deadly combatants in their own right, either due to their raw power and versatility, or because they do one thing so well that they are the unrivaled champion of it. So yes, certain Psychic types are stronger than other when compared directly, but depending on their abilities, movepools, and the proper knowledge to utilize the prior two things to their fullest potential, how powerful one is quickly become a highly subjective matter. The same can be said for other Pokémon as well, so keep this in mind before deciding to choose to use a Pokémon just because its 'Strong'."

The last question that Shiva had, though, was like a punch in the gut, as it almost caused him to visible startle once he fully process what she just said. He was silent for several minutes, before he finally spoke up. "Yes, my brother Sans owned an Abra, and raised them to be a terrifying, dominating, and overwhelmingly powerful Psychic type. With his sharp mind and his knack for Pokémon, he was able to raise and train them to levels that far exceeded what even an accomplished Psychic Trainer is capable of, bar perhaps Sabrinna or one of the many Psychic Elite Four Member scattered across the world. He was even able to teach it how to telepathically direct to him in English, imbue every one of its actions with psychic power, and how to control and manipulate all of it to a monomolecular edge. Suffice to say, his Alakazam could literally tear a Pokémon apart, both mentally and physically, in a matter of seconds. A lot of the techniques he used to achieve this level of power where unique to him and his Abra, as he specially designed and enacted a training, handling, and education regemine tailor suited for the both of them in order for them to reach their maximum potential together and exceed it. I doubt that his methods will work for you, and even if they did, I doubt even more that you would actually want to employ them. He was a rather...serious person when it came to his passions, and worked himself and his Pokémon to the point that most would kneel over and drop dead, something that would impede just about any training session. If that doesn't dissuade you...then I will teach you his methods as he shared with me. Its not pretty, but I have warned you sufficiently enough that you should be able to make an informed, logical choice without my needling."

"As for triggering Alpha waves in Abra, that is a far easier and less...deadly matter for me to discuss, so I'll share what he taught me of it right away. All Psychic Pokémon have a mental and emotional connection to their trainer, as I discuss, so its possible that, with enough practice, instruction, or simply have a strong surge of feelings, to convey things between this bond. With that said, its possible to completely open up your mind to Helios and, with some guidance and know how on your part, direct his psychic sight to the portion of your brain to observe the process of Alpha wave generation. If you are feeling supremely confidant and bold, you can even attempt have them probe that portion of your brain and directly assimilate and copy the production method that way, but I would not recommend it. Sans did so in order to expedite his Abra evolution once they had done enough researcher and training, but it left him with a massive migrane that persisted for the better part of a week. For someone that is less prepared....it could render you braindead. So its best to stick with Helios observing the process and inferring the solution for himself, rather that skip ahead, as it were."

The researcher said this in a quiet, calm, and steady tone of voice, but it was clear that speaking at length about his dead brother did no favors for his good mood. It didn't tank it into the mantle, but he was no longer had that characteristic smile, and their was a tired, weary look in his eyes as he spoke. 'Good times, bad times....they are all dust in the end of time....' the empath though, before getting up from his spot by the fire, and bowing his head slightly towards Shiva. "Its getting late, and all this conversation has been rather tiring, so I'll be heading to bed now. I wish you pleasant dreams, my friend, and a peaceful awakening. Apsis, Abaddon, come!' he said, before entering his tent, his two fierce Pokémon following in tow. Apsis was mindful not to get to close to the blue demon as she slither close to her master's side, but she was mindful of what he said about them. Be nice to them, and they won't cream it into oblivion with its perfect reflection move. A hard thing for such a regal snake to restrain her full majesty, but if her master has not steered her wrong before, so.... Abaddon, for their part, was a positively curios about the campfire, tent, and the meal it had been give, and was feeling fairly happy with being with their new master! They noticed that Shiva was now all alone at the fire and, instead of entering the tent immediantly, waddled over and gave her a hug! If his master/papa cares for this lady, she must be really nice like him too, so why not hug? Hugs are great!

[PhantomUnderYourDesk]

Interlude, before Ventus leaves into tent.


His assurance that Shiva is indeed capable enough to properly handle Psyhic Types well was clearly soothing. She trusted that he'd give her an honest opinion on that, rather than gviving some halfhearted words and risking damage to both her and Pokemon in the further progress. There was...no way she'd let the mental state of her dear Pokemon suffer just because she suffers - in fact, they might suffer enough already when they are seperated from her.

That whole talking about Gallade and Alakazam compared reminded her on a thing - there seems to be some sort of rivalry between Helios and Kirlia. Or there is one in development. One (Alakazam-line) relies on pure telekinetic powers, while the other (Gallade-line) was more fond of using any of its psychic powers in melee. Hehe, the spat between physical visible power and hidden special power. It all must have started back then shortly after Ralts' evolution and Helios refusing to show any of his psychic powers when the Psychic-Fairy was nearby, and the feeling that he seems to strongly dislike those he considered show-offs. When he was alone with Shiva, he seemed all fine and calm, but when some nerves are triggered... Well, this was something worthy to observe. Was this atually an outcome of Shiva's feeling of being overshadowed by the others? Maybe Helios noticed that developing in his owner's unconcious mind before she did = before it developed into the gloom, and wished to work against that? Possible, indeed. Were his mind-reading powers that strong at that point, or was the bond to Shiva that strong already? Whatever it was, she wasn't very sure about that. But she decided that held nothing against that development, no, it was actually a rather noble thing of her Abra. No need to share this issue with the others, though.

Ventus' view that Alakazam being one of the strongest Psychic types in existence exicted her a little. Not only did she gather several Psychic Types around her, but also on of the strongest existing...


It was...as she expected, though. Speaking about his brother and his Abra was no easy thing for Ven, that startle(?) and exhausting the she was silently expressing - although Ven did well on concealing it - were real. However, she was soaking up ever word he said about the matters, and as he finished about both Sans' training/raising methods as well as the Alpha-Wave-issue...

... well, silence lingered for a while. Rather meaningful silence. There were actually no words needed to express that Shiva wouldn't want to go the same way like his deceased brother in rasing an Abra to its Final Form, her aim was a loyal Alakazam that served as a wise companion and protector with the help of its massive psychc powers. His teleporting-ability was also a rather useful thing to hark back on.

When Ventus got up and made attempts to leave, she couldn't help to be a tad bit dissapointed although there was...actually...no need for that. Keeping Kyuu close to her with one arm, she warpped the other arm around Ven' neck just as he bowed his head towards her, and pulled him into a close embrace. Didn't matter whether he was acting strange or neormla around her occassionally, he deserved the hug more than ever. Rather low, so that only he could hear the words, she spoke out something was sounded like "Thank you... for telling me all this. I'll surely keep it in mind and try to put some of your advice on raising my Psychics into good use. Me too would never want to be without your friendship anymore. I'll stay a little out here before I'll join in tent, thanks, I'll wish you as well pleasant dreams and a safe rest." She then let go of the good-nights-embrace, practically flled with thankfullness.

What was rather unxpecting - yet rather nice and appreciated - was that Abbadon came to Shiva and pulled her into a a hug! My, my, he must have observed his Master and the female that was with him closely and noticed that such a gesture was an appreciating and lovely act, so why not return it?~

[PhantomUnderYourDesk]

This happens as Ventus has left inside the tent, and Shiva stays out alone by the fireplace now.


With Ventus left, Shiva was alone in the forest and by the fireplace with her mind for the nth time. Not that she was against that, though... Kyuu was the only Pokemon she didn't withdrew in their Pokeball by now, Nightshade the Cherubi has been sent to Bill's PC by now as well.

It has become rather dark meanwhile, the chittering of Bug Types has been mostly replaced by silence that was occassionally disturbed by the cries of some nocturnal Pokemon, the fireplace wasn't hosting a crackling fire but has turned into a heap of warm and light ashes giving off a cozy feeling. Clock on her cell showed 10:37pm, and battery level was at 9%. Nice... It must have completely slipped Shiva's mind to recharge cell as they were still in Corsage, and now she hadn't her Electric rodents with her. Nathan's Joltik was more counterproductive since it would likely suck more energy instead of charging it. Oh well, the life in the big city had its benefits...

She let out an rather impercible sigh before she pacjed the piece of technology away and looked up to the dark sky, before down to the Espurr snuggled up to her. It received a few soft pets over his cheek, and replied with silent purring to his Master. Which made her giving Kyuu as warm smile in response.

"No worries... I won't touch your ears evermore. That was a one-time act of mine, and you disliking being touched around the source of your Psychic power is a sign that you're healthy and aware of your powers. You wouldn't of you didn't learn Confusion today, are you? Anyway... I'm still unsure what kind of place this was where I met you, but I'm surely glad you are here with me now. These hounds that were chasing you - well, you're save from them now. I doubt we'll see them again ever, they don't belong into this world. I only saw them briefly before I focused on you, but that was enough to recognise them as strange nightmarish abominations... Well, I don't want to see one of these ever again. You're safe and here with me, lil' Espurr, and that matters more to me that finding out what kind of Houndour these were. I'll also look into whether we cannot tamper a little with your massive psychic powers and lead them into the right channeling..."

Oh... right, another thing. Reaching for the orchid-patterned ceramic plate, cleaning it up from any left overs and only leaving the pink Aprikorn nut on it, she offered it to the Espurr. "Eh, Kyuu, I saw that you seemed rather...interested in that nut here. You want to keep it by you? You can have it as a gift if you like."



---------------
Mechanics:
Kyuu batting on the pink Apricorn nut could mean that it either hated that nut or was very interested in obtaining it, I wasn't very sure from your post and wording, @Iron. So I'm giving it another try. After things concerning Espurr and the Apricorn has been cleared, Shiva will head to bed soon - with Kyuu out of his Pokeball and free to sleep alongside Master - and the next in-game day can start from my side.

[Iron]

Kyuu tucks the Aprikorn to his side, under one paw, and somewhat forgets about it. Every now and then for the next couple days, Kyuu suddenly looks startled and pulls it out to stare at it with interest.

[Iron]

Day 21 begins! (Divisible by 7).

You are nearly to Wineberry. It's time to start making plans for what you will do once you arrive.

Braixen is happy to revisit the lovely spring/autumnal Fireweed Forest!

Wineberry Outskirts Encounters

1. Name: Miller
Cap: 1
Difficulty: Fairly easy
Bid start: 1
Prize: $200
Notes: "Hey guys! I'm in a hurry to catch a ship in Corsage Port, but I have time for a simple 1v1 battle. Anyone up for one?"

2. Name: Heatmor
Cap: 1 (2)
Difficulty: Moderate
Bid start: 1
Notes: Holding item(s)

3. Name: Skald Elysia
Cap: 1
Difficulty: Easy
Bid start: 1
Notes: Her pack is hung with several musical instruments, many of them exotic or strange!


The path is lush with unpicked Oran berries.
Berrypicking bonus round:

Shiva: (4)(4) Shiva finds two Oran Berry
Ventus: (2)(6)(1) Ventus finds an Oran Berry
Nathan: (5)(4) Nathan finds two Oran Berry
Valder: (6)(1)(4) Valder finds two Oran Berry

[Lord Windos]

Wineberry Outskirts Encounters



2. Name: Heatmor
Cap: 1 (2)
Difficulty: Moderate
Bid start: 1
Notes: Holding item(s)

With Morning brought new beginning, and new opportunities for Ventus, his family, and his friend as well! As per custom, he was the first up in the morning, slipped out of Apsis' coiled embrace and awakening her, earning him a grumpy hiss as he went throught his usual routine, before he gave them a little scale scratching to soothe her discontent and returned her. The researcher left the tent and got some breakfast starts for everyone, before he went out to forage for some berries himself. He only found a single Oran Berry for his trouble, but was delighted none of the less. 'Any increase in my medical supplies, no matter how meager or small, is a thing to rejoice about, not be found wanting for more,' Ventus though, returning to camp and find that everyone had awoken on his trip, and where ready to pack up and go.

As the group continued on to Winesberry, The empath to care to keep a respectful distance away from Nathan and let him have his own peaceful privacy. 'I still don't know what has created a blight on our relationship, but me aggrevating the issue will not help matters at all. Best let him approach me first, or have someone else mend the discomfort he was in,' Ven though, looking over to his cute, lovely, compassionate friend Shiva. They were a little uncomfortable around them since last night's conversation, as it caused their good mood around the end to plunge straight into the void, but her hug and genuine thanks did alievate the worst of the slightly disruptive and somber mood he found himself in. So he gave her a cheerful smile when she looked in her direction, conveying his own thanks that he didn't voice last night. 'Some might say its too late, but I have found their is always time to say 'thank you' in any way you choose,' the researcher thought, humming a simple tune to himself.

Fireweed Forest was just as picturesque as ever, and Ven loved the crunching of leaves and the smell of autumn on the wind....and smoke? 'Wait, what? Where is Reshirim flames is smoke coming from?!' the empath though, his head snapping back forth until he found its source, a black plume of smoke immenating just a little way off from the trail. Giving a quick good bye and explaination for his sudden depature - "Sorry guys, but someone or something has left a fire burning off in the wood, so I'm going to investigate and see if Ariel and I can put it out. If I am not back in an hour, call for help ASAP." - , the empath made haste to the source!

Order: Ventus is going to encounter Heatmor, in his attempt to get to the bottom of this potential problem and snuff it right away! Fire hot, fire bad!