[Game thread] Skull Ruins Pokerole

[Dragonstrike]

Spoiler

The beautiful Malphena briefly looked intrigued and mildly curious at the Ralts abnormal (to her)responses to her taunting display......before she suddenly gave him a downright devious grin. Oh, a brave one is he? Its not everyday she come across a Psychic type that didn't  go deathly pale at the thought of suffering under her Ghostly magics, but she tickled purple to make this discovery! He may look like a scrawny wimp like the rest of his ilk, but now that she was paying attention it was all to clear there's a certain fierceness to him, ready to be sparked at a moments notice. Te he he......well, this boy had certainly becoming MUCH more interesting, and she can't wait to she what else is hidden away in plain sight.....

Ventus, on the other hand, could only slowly shake his head in agreement to Nathan's assessment of the terrible evil that pervades the Skull Ruins. He still find himself wanting for find a way to describe how genuinely blighted and twisted that......area was, but they did an excellent job of conveying how utterly awful of an experience it forces on beings.....

Their next comment received another small nod from the researcher, saying to them: "I've already laid down ground rules as to what are acceptable targets to terrorize, and human strangers/Trainers are not included on that list, so worry not. As for Miss Malphena's attempt to frighten you, I thought it would be a humorous way to introduce the two of you, so I allow it to happen, believing you could handle a small scare. Which you have proven thusly so far, though not entirely the way I expect."

At the comment about his sister's OT number, Ven could only blink in response as he forgotten such a detail, and he resisted the urge to facepalm at his ignorance. Still, now that the matter was elaborated upon, he couldn't help but curiously check the OT for the Trainer's name. If nothing else, it would be something he could use to track them down later, if the need arises for some strange reason....

(...)

Only briefly mulling over the price they laid out, the sociologist smiled and stuck out a hand to shake on it.

"We have an accord, then. I'll endevear to obtain a Sandstorm TM for you ASAP, and do my best to search for vendors that are not the Dpt. Store, as I can understand your.....distaste due to who they choose to associate and do business with. (...) Need Haziel to conduct an errand there, yes? Hmm.....that's perfectly acceptable, though I am curious as to why you need to return there. No matter, you business is your own, and I'll not infrigine upon it. Perhaps I'll even accompany you myself when that time comes, as I still need to visit the Preserve in the area to fully complete my research...hmm."

Upon being introduce to Emolga, Ven blinked yet again for completely missing the literally energetic flying mouse that hailed primarily from his region, but in hindsight he WAS rather distracted until now, so perhaps it could be forgivable they fly under his rader. Never the less, he gave them a friendly smile and said: "Acquired yet another friend, I see, just like me. And such a lively one as well, from the feel from them! Hello there, Emolga! How have you've been, since you came into Nathan's care? Great, I hope!"

Another nod to the young trainer's request/plea was issued, before he decided to bring up some topics to kill the time until Shiva come picks them up for their....their......ahem. Normally he would just work on his research or write poetry to pass the time, but he wasn't exactly in the mood for such things as of now, and he didn't just want to sit in silence and brood over his relative failure today....

Malphena, meanwhile, silently hover by her newest master's side, listening to him ramble on and on about various things that flew right over her head, but she had to admit their was a certain charm listening to his earnest verbosity. It informed her more about her about his personality and gave her gravedirt on his/his group's activities, at the very least!

"Nathan, how much thought have you given to taking Charmeleon and Grid hunting since I last brought it up? I know its an uncomfortable topic you want to avoid like a large Poisonous Gas cloud, but this needs to be addressed. They are both carnivorous Pokémon, and would be much happier and healthier eating naturally than wholely relying on Pokechow or Rations, which has certainly been proven with Apsis well and truly by now, so you can't deny the results. If you just don't want to bloody your hands, I'm more than willing to take them hunting myself, or butcher some of Apsis' kills and share it with them...."

(...)

"On another matter, what can you tell me of the Tanuki, and about Cress? From what I could glean, she's the Gym Leader of this city, she has a propensity for cute Pokémon, she knows Mt. Sentry extremely well, and that Dagney thinks her eccentric and unreliable, but I know their is more to her than that and wish to get a broader opinion/knowledge base on her. As for why I want to know more about Cress, I actually not had the time to explore this city and learn more about its unique culture besides this morning Tea Ceremony, as I've been too busy conducting business to 'stop and smell the Roserades', so to speak. Is their any place you'd think that would be of interest to me, besides the Cathedral you mentioned earlier?"

(...)

"Hmm....say Nathan, I recall you took that Pay Day TM from Dagney , yes? Did you happen to teach it to Swiftfire? If I recall correctly the move can be rarely found on the Rapidash breed, so the possibility she could learn it was present. If that's the case, you could perhaps have her help generate additional funds for you, should you find the right conditions to generate valuable material from the move rather than worthless metals. Just a thought, of course, so you don't have to pay it any mind if you wish."

(...)

"......Call me curious, but can you tell me more about how your Pokémon are doing to me? More specifically, how are they behaving and interacting with you and others, and how they have grown and changed under your care? I've been meaning to ask the group about such things for awhile to acquire additional data for my ongoing research on understand Pokémon behavior and its sociological aspects, and now seems to be a good time as ever. If you wish to keep such things to yourself, though, I perfectly understand, so no pressure Nathan."

(...)

"Ah, I recall something else now too, now. I did promise that you could join me when I next inform Cynthia about Raphael's growth and development thus far, yes? It would have to be in Stair City, as the last time I tried calling her in Corsage their was no connection, and the last time she called me that connection was.....tenuous at best, so we both would have to arrange a date to conduct this. Not tomorrow or in the near future, obviously, as we have various other matters both personal and not that need be attended, but it is something that should be kept in mind or thought about. Hmm.....perhaps a week from now we could try to reach her......? Is that fine with you, or should I post pone it further? It would certainly give me more time to observe and make a proper report on my dear child, but expedience certainly has its appeal, especially after not speaking with my friend for so long.....hmm."

(...)
"How did your meeting with Mr. Finder go? Is he of merit as Shiva claimed, or do we have reason to suspect he's a snake oil merchant, or someone we can't put much faith in?"

(...)

"Have you called your mother lately? While I don't believe she has any present reason to worry about you now, or so I hope at least anyway, I can hardly imagine her not being happy to receive word of how you doing thus far. On the subject, is she and the ranch doing well too? Forgive me for asking about such things, but......well, I just want to make sure all is good with your family. "

"......I hope you are doing well too, Nathan. You have seen much more at ease since you've settled in this rustic city, but remember if you ever need someone to speak to, or need assistance, I'm willing to provide it, despite our......conflicts with one another. Shiva and Heart are there for you too if you need it, so you are certainly in good company, should you only ask for it."

(I was bored, and this is a good way of catching Ven up on stuff while re-building a raport between our character, as well as bring up ideas/plans with each other.)

(I think a better word to describe it is...Steadfast ) 

"...that's only because I caught her in the act, ya know..."

*hand shake on the deal*

"...I'll hand over Icy Wind when you deliver on Sandstorm.  And when Haziel's free, do let me know."

(...)

Emolga chitters back happily.

"Yeah, he's been enjoying the company.  He never really had many visitors."

(...)

"...maybe it's effective, but it's not the only good way to raise those kinds of pokemon, as Misdreavus's previous owner can probably attest to based on what I've seen of her behavior so far.  That's all I have to say on the matter."

(...)

"Tanuki's Tanuki.  Name an art or craft, and she's probably involved in it in some way, usually with that bouncy, somewhat silly attitude of hers.  Mt. Sentry, she trains in on a regular basis, like every Cress Gym Leader before her.  Cress is the cultural capital, and she's basically the poster child (but don't tell her I said that).  Her art still doesn't even come close to the quality of Keni Morgusi's, though.  Not much more I need to say about her than that, really.

As far as Cress itself...cultural and traditional counterpart to Stair's innovation and progress.  If ya need to learn more about the city, or about various other significant parts of Creshire's history,  the museum is the place to visit for sure.  One thing you probably won't learn there though is that only those who have made beneficial contributions to the region's culture are allowed to move to the city from elsewhere."

(...)

...

"...that's...not something I would have expected you to know...the only Pay Day Rapidash I've ever heard of supposedly belongs to some braggart in the Kanto region...honestly, as much as I like fire horses, the quote in the article I read just goes on and on and on and on about nothing interesting at all..."

(...)

"They're doing fine.  Well, one of them's still adjusting since they've spent most of their time in the PC so far...but that's to be expected, really...still gotta work with Pulse on behaving himself, thinking about it...we're all one big, happy group of friends, though.  That's all I can really say in general about all of them."

(...)

"Just tell me in advance when you're calling her.  I'll make time."

(...)

"I gave him a thorough test.  He seems to definitely have some weight behind his claims.  Whether he can find what we're looking for, I don't know, but he's not just a bunch of hot air, nor is he maliciously deceptive."

(...)

"We're doing fine, Ventus.  Calls are less frequent (and not necessarily typed out), but everything's okay.  Let's just...move on from that topic."

...

"Are YOU doing okay, Ventus?  You're not usually this chatty...nervous, I take it?"

[Iron]

Spoiler

Oh right, actually Shiva does have a pocket umbrella in her stuff, but she didn't took it to stage nor could she have been sure that her plan would work out. Nevermind, next time she'll remember that, she doesn't wear an make-up currently that could have ended up being smeared and there's probably still enough time to towel her hair dry before she's pick Ventus in the Lobby. She could even - will - do on the way with that towel from the Spa Resort in Fireweed Forest.

What a precious and enjoyable battle though, even if it lasted not even a minute! Azu didn't looked pained at all, so Shiva ended up picked the fae rabbit up and they ended up sharing a loooong and tight hug that would hopefully never end - for now, Azu has leveled-up from being her bringer of happiness to her bringer of happiness AND summoner of rain. Letting the sun shine to her desire and the rain fall when she calls for it - nature surely was benelovent if treated right, and Shiva felt almost blessed that she made it reaching this point together with her Pokemon.


That delightful moment was soon 'disturbed' by that guy running up to her, catching her attention and earning wondering chirp from Azu. Shiva carefully listened what he had to say, before that soft-compliment for her battle sinked and caused a pretty coy yet thankful manner and body language. She struggles to face that man when responding, drawing Azumarill closer up to her face, but it was obvious that she was smiling in silent delight. "I'd be...happy to contribute my battle to that compilation... I indeed am, t-thank you! Really. No cropping out needed. I'll look forward to receiving that copy, I'll probably send it home to my parents." After careful reading of the form, Shiva signs it with her full name, hands it back, and places Azurmarill down beside her. (I'll add 600$ to charasheet then. Does Shiva receive such a red flower with a clip as well, simply for symbolism?)

Shiva also coyly waved to Heart in the crowd, but before they can make their way to the Center again (or wherever Hearts wants to go) and Shiva could meet up with Ven, she has one small sentiment towards the Kimonogirls:

Spoiler

"Excuse me..... C.... can I, maybe, stroke that Sylveon just once? >///<; Only shorthly over its cheek... I train and raise a few Fairy Types by myself and have forged a strong bond with two of them, and the grace of this Eeveelution awes me quite much."

Yes, all victors get the red flower and pin!

"You may pet her, but be very gently and friendly. If she shies away from you, please let her. We have to respect her privacy."

But Sylveon lets Shiva have a few strokes before she trots back to her trainer.

After that wonderfull perfomance of Shiva and her meet with Sylveon, Heart finally join with her to talk. "That was a great battle you did there Shiva. And a beautiful way too. You and Azu have a strong bond between you too. Just like my bond with Rose." Heart smile. "I think tomorrow the battle shall continue, and I problably going to fight next maybe. I gonna train a bit to be ready. Its still have some light today, so I will try to find someone to battle. Koa and Typhon still need to sharp their claws and eletric attacks. I have decided to take Koa or Rose to the next pokemon battle. There might something interesting to happen. I beg your pardón Shiva. But I going to take you to the pokemon center or other place you want."

Mechanics: Acompany Shiva to the pokemon or other place then find someone to battle! 5x5, 700 pokedollars. Since Koa and Gustav still having faint and recovering from the last battle, I gonna change that too in the PC. Unless they are already recover.

No one in Cress City is willing to battle you, because they only battle for ceremonial purposes here.

[Iron]

The OT of Misdreavus is Youngster Pug.

[PhantomUnderYourDesk]

Shiva couldn't help but to bow very low and respectfully towards the Trainer to express kind thankfulness and assure that she'll be very friendly to precious Sylveon. If she shies away from her, she'd of course let her, as anythingelse would be more than mean to such a graceful and rare Pokemon.

The pink and cream fur of her was so incredibly soft and velvet that it gave Shiva pleasant shivers, and she almost could feel the LOVE and LOYALTY a Sylveon was silently emitting. Hummm...~ The red flower is thankfully accepted and then packed away, it's a nice addition to the growing collection of charms of hers.


**********


Certainly Heart was allowed to accompany her to the Center, along the way she was coyly smiling and walking hands in hands with Azumarill. The rain was still fresh on her skin and hair... Though it was warm outside and the towel from the SPA resort laid on her shoulders was probably all it'd took to be fine again. In moments like this, Shiva felt the strongest for how the sad small blue mouse has grown - how happy she became - how they both have grown. Just like with Cottonee, she and Azu will stay with one another forever, ever, it shouldn't be otherwise.

What a pleasant day, now that thought about it - there was no time to meet the Medium, but on the other hand she was able to hold a great battle against Heart, make a deal with Mr. Finder, obtained a precious snowy Vulpix and much more... What was left for the day was only one thing. Simply thinking about it gave her a warm feeling and nervosity at the same time.

The praise from Heart was silently accepted and thanked with a delighted smile - one that quickly faded as he mentioned wanting to battle someone. "Oh.... I do wish you good luck finding someone willing to battle here in Cress City, Heart, as as far I got to know battles are only held for ceremonical purposes. Maybe find a wil Pokemon to battle instead? If worst comes to worst, you can burrow one of our Pokemon with Teleport to battle in Stair City or so."


**********



Next! With a feeling of shy anticipitation, Shiva and Azumarill eventually stepped through the sliding door of the Eastern Pokemon Center, and to her luck Ventus was already present! Nathan was as well, they seemed busy with discussing something though, so she let them alone at first and will get to them once she has finished some last businesses. A few pieces of their talking she picked up though, but the only thing that really interested her was hunting with their own Pokemon. When the time and situation was right, Shiva still would like to accompany him with Yena and Furret, and he knew that.

These businesses were mostly swapping around in her party until it consisted of Cottonee, Alolan Vulpix, Gothitelle, Azumarill and Nightshade, she deliberately left one Slot open for a possible Luvdisk. Then, she made one quick run up to the dorm she occupied, mostly to get everything she'd need for the sleepover at B&B, as well to retrive that one plushie she made from Cottonee's fluff she that wanted him to have. She liked it, lots, and was somewhat impressed of how we it turned out, but with his faible for dragons he'd maybe enjoy it more than she'd do..?

Nevermind, locking the room was it now, checking to see whether it is locked, then heading down to the Lobby finally! In naturally graceful movements she went down the stairs, passed the Counter and was in the Lobby, and in a swift twirl she was right there at the table Nathan and Ventus occupied, having her arms wrapped around one arm of the latter before she could prevent her from doing so. The expression and emotional response she was giving out was delightful, fine, accomplished and somewhat nervous/timid, but the latter didn't show on the outside. "Greetings again, Nathan! To you too, Ven! How neat to see that you've made it in time. I, ehm, hope I'm not...disturbing you in something, as from my side we can get going...then. I guess. Dinner awaits us two!~ I'll pay."

[Iron]

(2)(2)(2)(5)(5)(1)
(2)(1)(3)(2)(1)(1)

Shiva is absolutely STARTLED when a tap on her shoulder reveals an open-mouthed spectre!



(Suggestion by Windos!)

[Lord Windos]

Spoiler

(I think a better word to describe it is...Steadfast ) 

"...that's only because I caught her in the act, ya know..."

*hand shake on the deal*

"...I'll hand over Icy Wind when you deliver on Sandstorm.  And when Haziel's free, do let me know."

(...)

Emolga chitters back happily.

"Yeah, he's been enjoying the company.  He never really had many visitors."

(...)

"...maybe it's effective, but it's not the only good way to raise those kinds of pokemon, as Misdreavus's previous owner can probably attest to based on what I've seen of her behavior so far.  That's all I have to say on the matter."

(...)

"Tanuki's Tanuki.  Name an art or craft, and she's probably involved in it in some way, usually with that bouncy, somewhat silly attitude of hers.  Mt. Sentry, she trains in on a regular basis, like every Cress Gym Leader before her.  Cress is the cultural capital, and she's basically the poster child (but don't tell her I said that).  Her art still doesn't even come close to the quality of Keni Morgusi's, though.  Not much more I need to say about her than that, really.

As far as Cress itself...cultural and traditional counterpart to Stair's innovation and progress.  If ya need to learn more about the city, or about various other significant parts of Creshire's history,  the museum is the place to visit for sure.  One thing you probably won't learn there though is that only those who have made beneficial contributions to the region's culture are allowed to move to the city from elsewhere."

(...)

...

"...that's...not something I would have expected you to know...the only Pay Day Rapidash I've ever heard of supposedly belongs to some braggart in the Kanto region...honestly, as much as I like fire horses, the quote in the article I read just goes on and on and on and on about nothing interesting at all..."

(...)

"They're doing fine.  Well, one of them's still adjusting since they've spent most of their time in the PC so far...but that's to be expected, really...still gotta work with Pulse on behaving himself, thinking about it...we're all one big, happy group of friends, though.  That's all I can really say in general about all of them."

(...)

"Just tell me in advance when you're calling her.  I'll make time."

(...)

"I gave him a thorough test.  He seems to definitely have some weight behind his claims.  Whether he can find what we're looking for, I don't know, but he's not just a bunch of hot air, nor is he maliciously deceptive."

(...)

"We're doing fine, Ventus.  Calls are less frequent (and not necessarily typed out), but everything's okay.  Let's just...move on from that topic."

...

"Are YOU doing okay, Ventus?  You're not usually this chatty...nervous, I take it?"

"*Shrugs* I believe you would have taken it well regardless, but she won't be bothering you again.....at least not for awhile, at any rate."

*Gives Nathan's hand a good pump!*

"Agreed! When we do get around to exchanging TMs, would you care for me to watch Castform summon Sandstorm and see its form change? I admit, while I'm familar with the species unique transformation in various weathers, I never seen the phenomena myself, so I'd like to correct that post haste if you allow."

(...)

Ventus just can't help but smile at the cheerfulness eminating from Emolga, as finding a wild Pokemon that was this naturally sociable outside certain species was quite rare!

"Hard to image, given how thoroughly amicable he is, even compared to his own species, but he'll certainly not be wanting for good company now."

The researcher then sticks his hand into his satchel and pulls out an apple, holding it out for the lively mouse to grab, if he so choose. He's aware that rodent Pokemon often have a voracious appetite, so it might appreciate the snack!

(...)

"......No, its not, but neither is it so abhorrent and meritless either Nathan. Their former owner did a fine job of raising her his way, I agree, but I will let you know I plan on letting Misdreavus feeding on my own fear and that of the Pokemon that Apsis hunts if she finds it acceptable, as she deserves to have that choice. If she find such a diet is distasteful, I'll respect her wishes and not force the change on her. Similarly, you could continue caring for your own Pokemon the way you best see fit, but on occasion come with me to hunt and let them sate their carnivorous appetite to give them that experience seldom others would. *Sighs* I'm not asking you to abandon you current method of feeding them, Nathan. All I'm asking is that you try it, and see the results for yourself. Not for my sake, but for their's."

(...)

"An eccentric aspiring artist and local celebrity on top of a Gym Leader, hmm? Well, she sounds certainly energetic and outgoing, if nothing else. I'll have to see myself to truly judge her character, but I don't image that I won't get along with her well. Unless she deliberately tries to annoy me, that is...."

"Then I'll pay the muesem a visit as well, as the more I learn of this region's culture, the more context I have for how and why its inhabitants act the way they do. Its fascinating, to see such strong bonds between humanity and Pokemon, compared to the ultilitarian and proffesionalistic attitude of most of Unova, save a few sub-cultures."

(...)

"*Shrug* I am a Pokemon Researcher, so its hardly remiss of me to know what a given Pokemon's species is capable of. Worked quite to get my doctorate in this field and countless hours researching Pokemon, so I would hope that all of that experience amounts to more than nothing. Of course, I hardly know a thing at all about Tandorian Pokemon like my Lilith and Shiva's Comite, so my knowledge base isn't infinite either."

(...)

A nod of Ventus' head was the only respond he gave to Nathan on that remark, but the boy could clearly see the gears churning in the researcher's head as he added this account to all the other information he possesses....

(...)

"*Nods* Very well. Just be on your best behavior when the time comes to contact her, alright? I know your admiration for her is.....high, but I dont want her being under such praise unless she allows it. She is my friend, after all, so I want her treated well. Understand?"

(...)

"Ah, that's good to know. Hopefully he can guide us to the Secret Library, or Anthenum if that's its true name, or at the very least help narrow down our search. I for one don't want to spend the next few decades wandering Mt. Sentry's cavernous depths, if its all the same to you......"

(...)

Sighing in relief, the empath gave them a small smile at the news all was well between them and their mother.

"Good. That's....good to hear. Sorry for asking, but....well, you understand where my concern comes from."

At Nathan's discrete but knowledgable jab, a look of dull surprise washed across Ven's face, as he didn't expect the boy to cotton on to such......feelings between him and Shiva. 

Nevermind, locking the room was it now, checking to see whether it is locked, then heading down to the Lobby finally! In naturally graceful movements she went down the stairs, passed the Counter and was in the Lobby, and in a swift twirl she was right there at the table Nathan and Ventus occupied, having her arms wrapped around one arm of the latter before she could prevent her from doing so. The expression and emotional response she was giving out was delightful, fine, accomplished and somewhat nervous/timid, but the latter didn't show on the outside. "Greetings again, Nathan! To you too, Ven! How neat to see that you've made it in time. I, ehm, hope I'm not...disturbing you in something, as from my side we can get going...then. I guess. Dinner awaits us two!~ I'll pay."

Reshirim be thanked greatly, though, for just moments later Shiva, like an merciful angel descending from the heavens, swooped into the lobby to 'rescue' him from having to answer the boy's question (both stated and implied)! He was careful not the show/radiate any relief that would give her/Nathan any material to gauge his true feelings, but his body did simultaneously relaxed and stiffened under his most blessed friend's touch, and a simply happy smile appeared as the empath looked up to return her greeting.

"Hello to you too, Shiva. No, me and Nathan were just finishing up discussing various topics, so need to fret. I'm....I'm ready to depart when you are, Shiva. Let us....enjoy our night together, my dear...."

Unbeknownst to all, Malphena had in explicitly vanished from her master's side. Uh oh....

[PhantomUnderYourDesk]

(2)(2)(2)(5)(5)(1)
(2)(1)(3)(2)(1)(1)

Shiva is absolutely STARTLED when a tap on her shoulder reveals an open-mouthed spectre!

Indeed she is. So incredibly startled that the winced in panic acompanied by a high-pitched "EEEEEEEEEEKKKKKKK!!!" that'd probably catch Nurse Joy's attention even, clenching herself at Ventus' arm as if she'd never want to let go, and in a swift movement Gothitelle has been summoned to her side. "Lilith, PLEASE FEINT ATTACK WHATEVER THAT IS, IT'S SCARY AND CREEPY AND EEEEEHHHK !!!

[Lord Windos]

Indeed she is. So incredibly startled that the winced in panic acompanied by a high-pitched "EEEEEEEEEEKKKKKKK!!!" that'd probably catch Nurse Joy's attention even, clenching herself at Ventus' arm as if she'd mnever wanted to let go, and in a swift movement Gothitelle has been summoned to her side. "Lilith, PLEASE FEINT ATTACK WHATEVER THAT IS, IT'S SCARY AND CREEPY AND EEEEEHHHK !!!

Mean as it was, Ventus couldn't help it: he laughed, covering his mouth with his free hand and shaking his head in amusement as his sister 'greeted' yet another member of the group in her characteristically mischievous way, this time with great aplomb. Melphena ceased making the scary face and started to giggle wildly, bobbing up and down in the air  and letting out pleased *Eeees!* at the woman brilliant reaction. Oh, the sheer terror and surprise  from this timid woman MORE than made up for that boy's poe faced curmudgeons! This would make for a very nice meal for her indeed, tehe~

Lilith subsequent released and her master's orders, however, aburptly cut the jollity like a hot knife through butter, causing the banshee to sudden puff themselves up and square of against the sent out Psychic type, the red jewels on her neck began to dully glow, ready to unleash who knows what nasty spell on the stargazer. Poo, its always the timid ones that end up being spoilsports, hmpt! Well, she won't be the first one to move, she WILL be the last one standing should the Psychic attack them, *Warningly begans to Eeeeeeee.......*

Sensing that things could very well go horribly wrong in mere moments, the empath quickly turned and hugged his most blessed friend, hoping this and his next words would act as swift damage control. Otherwise....well, this could get bad!

"Shiva, Shiva, calm down! That is MY Misdreavus Malphena, and she wouldn't harm you or anyone else, unless provoked! She was just having a little fun in introducing herself to yourself, so please don't attack her. You are safe and nothing will change that now, so rest easy......"

[Dragonstrike]

Ralts looks about ready to fire off a Hypnosis again.  And he's certainly not one of the 'timid ones'.

*sigh*

"Ventus, that's exactly why you don't ambush people with Ghost types..."

[PhantomUnderYourDesk]

Ventus laughing at all costs earned him a confused look that was just as intense as the startle mere seconds before, as now stopped getting it. W...why was he doing that? What was going on? And... WHAT IN RESHIRAM'S HOLY NAME WAS THIS SPECTRE?! Whatever it was though, Shiva wanted it to be gone and simply hoped that Gothitelle would listen and defend her Master against ...'it'. Against 'this'.

The next mere seconds, several things happened all at once, from that spectre turning into a Misdreavus - she should have known! But...why was it here at the Center? -, over Lilith looking at that Ghost not too impressed but rather annoyed, if not angry, due to being reminded on that nasty Rotom once crossing her line, to Ventus sweeping around to envelop her into his arms. Shiva clinged to the fabric of his green sweater, starting to STARE at that Misdreavus pretty deadpaned once he opened up that it's his new companion. Swiftly, seeing as that Ghost seemed business and had the potential to strike back, Shiva waved to her Psychic Type, catching her attention. "Lilith, PLEASE STOP. False alarm, do not attack this Ghost as it belongs to Ventus here. Unless we want to ruin things with him or it comes too close to us, we'll leave this Misdreavus alone. Okay?"

Back to leaning into the hug, concentrating on her breath, slowly recovering from that instant and unexpected startle. Feeling his heartbeat close helped, eventually she managed to speak clearly again. "So it's yours... You got yourself a Ghost type too? Hehe... How...sweet to see, Ven. Why a...Misdreavus though... Please keep her under control, dear. Let her consume fear is she wants, but please not mine. So many wild Pokemon and people outside she can scare... My Litwick would be happy to consume the life force of the scared... You promised to take me to one of your hunting trips, Ven." These words were muttered, so that only Ventus would understand them if paying attention, there is no need for Nathan to know that sentiment of Shiva. Yet.

"I won't even ask where and how you got her. Haha... It seems like almost everyone got a new companion today - I did too, but I haven't introcuded myself to her yet so you cannot see her yet. N...Now then" - she backed a little away from Ventus, dearly facing him then looking to the side - "I am ready, so let us....depart!~" She waved to Nathan in terms of goodybe and goodnight, then recalled Lilith to her painted Premier Ball AFTER Ventus recalled Melphena as well ('Such a cool name!", she thought), before making their way to Romantic Hills B&B, searching for the roomkeys and preparing some money to pay the rest of the price for he room.