Welcome to Smogon! Take a moment to read the Introduction to Smogon for a run-down on everything Smogon, and make sure you take some time to read the global rules.
Considering Ranger is "away" at the moment, I am just chiming in to tell you that either you or The Royal Guard should issue actions in Ranger's stead in this battle. If neither of you do it fast enough, then your team is likely to face disqualification from the ASB Team Tournament. Thank you in advance.
Try to keep them appropriate to level. They can learn TM's, but again, dont teach your Cyndaquil Fire Blast at the third gym. And since this is anime style they can learn egg moves without having to be properly bred.
Sure, join up. Make a Sign-up. Since your not starting from the beginning you dont have to choose Pokemon from the starter list (though feel free to take one.) Just VM your list and i'll tell you if they are okay for this point in the game. Once I approve them post your team in the Pokemon Team Archive.
I can't give you a solid number, but think about it this way. You're trading a 3 CC Pokemon for another 3 CC Pokemon with 40+ counters in it. At least make it somewhat worth it.
yeah, things have gotten better. I've got a bunch of stuff coming up though, since next school-year I'm taking two honors classes, two AP classes, and a 0 Period, so I'll be doing school stuff for a majority of the day, plus Summer Homework. 8(
Well, I've had a lot of social problems to deal with, and I had to get my ass in gear for school since I was falling REALLY far behind in my AP World History class, and I was going to appointments with a psychologist for a while, so...yeah...