A Change Of Direction

*tap tap tap tap*

The atmosphere around Max and his team was tense and thick as they waited inside the pokemon center's main lobby. They've been waiting since early that morning and were expecting to receive news on Dusk's condition very soon. Everyone was waiting patiently but attentively, while Max was looking more restless than anything, staring at the ground while tapping his leg nervously.

{Okay, can you stop?} Scarlet requested, firmly placing her hand on his thigh.

"What?"

{Your foot tapping, it's annoying.}

Max scoffed and leaned into his seat while crossing his arms."It's already been well over a full day by now, what's taking so long?"

{They'll call for us soon, we just need to wait a little longer.} Scarlet reassured him.

"Pfft, this is coming from the gardevoir who-"

Before he could finish that comment, a doctor then approached the group seemingly out of nowhere. "Mister Max? Owner of the patient named Dusk?" a voice said, catching everyone's attention.

"Y-Yes, that's me. How is she?! Is she gonna be okay?!" Max exclaimed, quickly standing up from his chair along with everyone else.

"She's fine, don't worry. Her condition has been stabilized and her livelihood is no longer in jeopardy. However, there are a few things we need to discuss, so if you'll please follow me to my office."

"Can we go see her first?" Max asked worryingly.

"Of course. The paperwork for her discharge has already been signed, so she's cleared to leave right away if you wish," The doctor said before turning and heading down a hallway with the group following him. "My office will be just at the end of this hall. As for your delphox, she'll be in room 655 on your left."

Max and his team followed the doctor until they arrived at Dusk's room, where they saw her laying on a hospital bed through the large window.

"...Dusk!" Max called out, wasting no time as he rushed inside, the delphox unable to react as he suddenly hugged her.

{Oh… H-Hi, master.} Dusk said, returning the hug a bit shyly.

Max breathed a sigh of relief. "Thank goodness you're okay… I was so worried about you."

{...Me too, master.} she replied, her voice not sounding enthusiastic.

"Are you okay, Dusk?" he asked as he broke the hug, noticing her strange behavior.

{…Yeah. Don't worry about me, I'm just tired.} she said with a smile.

Max thought it was just fatigue, so he didn't think much of it. Scarlet, on the other hand, saw right through her facade and knew for a fact that she was not fine.

"...Okay, as long as you're fine…" Max said, gently caressing her cheek.

{I'll be okay.} Dusk assured him, gently holding his hand for a bit before he left the bed.

Max then turned to the rest of his team. "I'll be back shortly. Stay here with Dusk for a few minutes, then we'll get out of here and pick up where we left off."

{We'll keep her company in the meantime.} Aurora said with a nod, everyone else doing the same

Max then left the room smiling and followed the doctor through the almost-empty hallway. They passed a few medical personnel wearing teal scrubs, as well as a couple of bipedal pokémon in wheelchairs before reaching the doctor's personal office. The room had a large wooden desk with two small office chairs for the doctor and his acquaintance placed respectfully on opposing sides with a large window behind the desk. The desk was well-polished and had various folders and office supplies scattered neatly across, along with a table lamp and a computer near the edge. There were shelves with books placed on both sides of the room, and above them were a few diplomas and certificates of the doctor's medical experience. Overall, pretty much what Max would expect from someone who works at a pokémon center.

"Have a seat," the doctor said in a neutral tone after taking his.

After Max sat down, the doctor dropped his arms on his desk with crossed fingers, looking much more grim than earlier.

"Lay it on me doc… Is Dusk really gonna be okay?" Max asked, a little worried by his change in demeanor.

"So long as you take care of her and she avoids intense battling, for the time being, there should be no further complications to her mental health. We didn't detect what her condition was at first, however, after a much more thorough examination, we found it. Apparently, this one, in particular, is relatively rare, even amongst trained pokémon."

"Which is…?"

"As you know, as a pokémon undergoes an evolution, they experience many changes that affect them mentally as well as physically." The doctor explained. "This usually results in their personality changing among many things, which can be somewhat reverted in the event of a second evolution; think of it like how we go through puberty, only it occurs instantaneously at any given moment. It is because of how evolution works that certain… complications can arise."

Max didn't like that last part. "What kind of complications?"

"It varies depending on the pokémon in question, but in your delphox's case, her evolution resulted in a mutation that distorts her brain cells and neurons," the doctor continued, Max's eyes widening the more he went on. "Simply put, she, unfortunately, developed a sort of mental illness upon evolving, handicapping her to some degree. As I said, the condition is relatively rare, however, there are other factors that can increase the risk of getting it as well as its severity. Exposure to trauma in any form prior to evolving being the most common."

Max appeared visibly distraught as he was told this. Hearing this news felt like a slap to the face, to the point where he preferred if that actually happened, thinking that it'd wake him up from this bad dream.

"That's…" Max muttered regrettably, already blaming himself for Dusk's misfortune.

The doctor noticed Max's reaction and reassured him of Dusk's situation. "Don't look so down, there is good news for you. There's no need to worry about your delphox as her illness is not that severe from what we can tell. This will not result in a hindrance to her daily routines and such. In fact, the problem resides in her abilities as a pokémon."

Max's distress shifted more towards curiosity. "What do you mean?"

"She is still able to train and use them without any issue, to which she'll have to push herself to her limits if she wishes to progress and grow stronger. Unfortunately, that's where the danger lies; The more she pushes herself, the more likely it is for her to repeat the phenomenon you described to us yesterday," the doctor continued in a serious manner. "Upon monitoring her brain wave patterns, we discovered that her mental illness is a primal personality disorder that sleeps deep within her consciousness. Anytime that she uses her abilities with too much intensity for a certain period of time, a sort of… 'switch' is flipped and her mind goes into a somewhat feral state. She may grow more powerful but at the cost of her more 'sentient' qualities such as empathy and judgment. Don't think of it like a split personality, but rather a mutated fight or flight response that makes the subject go berserk, in a way."

"...For fuck's s—... Why her?" Max mumbled, trying to take this all in.

The doctor gave him a solemn nod. "I'm sorry that this happened to you. Truly, I do."

"...*sigh* I-Is there anything I can do to help her? Anything at all?" Max asked with a hint of desperation in his voice.

"You can, actually," The doctor replied before taking a pill bottle from the desk's drawer, filled with small violet oval-shaped pills.

"What's that?"

"Prescription pills that regulate the psychic energy flow of psychic-type pokémon. So long as your delphox takes these, she will be able to train without fear of losing control. However, I should warn you of the side effects…"

Max quietly groaned at this bit of information. "Of course, there are side effects," he muttered bitterly.

"Taking these pills may alter her general behavior. Every case is different, so these changes could be minor or moderate. Worst case scenario, her behavior does a complete one-eighty, but we've recorded very few of those."

"What should I expect?"

"Given how immediate we were able to examine and treat her, nothing too serious, but your delphox may either grow more distant or more dependent than normal. She can also experience a decrease in appetite, energy and/or motivation. As I mentioned, every case is different."

"...I see," Max said, going a bit absentminded.

"One thing I also want to point out is that she may experience a feeling of intoxication within the first few days of her medication. The initial symptoms should pass after a little while."

Max sighed once more before grabbing the bottle and looking at the directions and info listed on the container.

"There's enough pills to last ninety days. She must take one daily in the morning as it causes insomnia for a couple of hours. When you start to run out, you can pick up another bottle at any pokémon center," he explained as he took out a slip of paper and placed it in front of Max. "All I need to do is make an official folder of your records and print out her diagnostics report."

"...Is this a lifetime medication?" Max asked upon looking it over, hoping the doctor would say no.

"Most of the time, yes. I've heard that some miraculously recovered from that, but I never personally witnessed anything as such in our database. Then again, pokémon are full of surprises, so there's a possibility she might learn to control that condition on her own. Don't quote me on that, it's only a theory I have, but rest assured; Pokemon healthcare is free and so are the medications. You will always have easy access to medical care for your pokémon."

"Thanks, doc," Max said with an obvious lack of enthusiasm.

"If you're not in a rush, we can open a folder and register you in our system right away," the doctor suggested as he typed on his computer.

"...Yeah. Let's do that."

"Very well… All I need is your ID and your pokémon trainer's license," the doctor explained before turning to start typing on his computer.

"Pokémon- Oh," Max said, now feeling a bit uncomfortable.

"Is there a problem?"

Max fidgeted in his seat. "Well, the thing is… I don't have a trainer's license."

The doctor stopped typing right as he heard that."...You don't have a trainer license?"

"I… It slipped my mind, and I keep forgetting about it," Max admitted nervously.

"I see… You know, having a team of pokémon without an official license is a serious offense. By law, I am allowed to confiscate your pokemon and call the police."

Max's throat tightened and his hands trembled at the statement. "No!" he suddenly shouted before regaining his composure. *ahem* "I-I'm sorry. I really intended on getting one, but… my team and I just kept bumping into problems and… I promise I'll get one eventually, just… Please don't take them away."

The doctor stared at Max with a neutral expression, not saying anything as Max grew increasingly more uncomfortable."...You know, they passed and instated that international law for a reason. Too many ignorant trainers running around the region without the necessary knowledge, skills, devotion, and empathy it requires. This prevents abusive trainers, pokémon collectors, poachers, illegal breeders, and so on from endangering themselves, the general public, and their partners."

Max groaned as he was already afraid of the consequences. "I know… I've already run into a few of those since I started my journey. Hell, my mawile was owned by an abusive trainer. I rescued her from him as he was beating her down, and how much do you wanna bet that that fucker obtained his license legally, if at all?! I despise pokémon abuse in any form," he ranted frustratingly as the doctor continued to stare at him, not saying anything.

"...I will admit that every law has its flaws and can be exploited. Like every good doctor should, I care deeply for the pokémon, and… *sigh* I wouldn't consider myself as such if I couldn't tell an abusive trainer from a caring one."

"So…?"

"So I'll let it slide and keep this between us, just this once."

Max's expression lit up as he nearly jumped out of his seat, but restrained himself. "Really?! Oh, thank you so much!" He thanked the doctor before breathing a sigh of relief. "I was so scared. I don't want my team to be taken from me, especially one who's sick and needs me the most. They're everything I have."

"I'll state in your folder that your license expired prior to the prescription filling. If you want another prescription, you'll have to present one in ninety days and write to me that you've renewed it."

"I will. Thanks for everything, doc."

"Don't mention it. Seriously, not a word," he reaffirmed. "I'll still need your ID card."

"Oh, right. Here it is," Max said after pulling out a card from his wallet.

Over the course of a few minutes, Max gave information that the doctor entered into his computer, as well as printed out an official statement regarding Dusk's condition. They then exited the office with Max feeling a little better about the situation.

"Thanks again, doc. You guys are the best."

"You're welcome. Take care now, and don't forget about your license. I cannot stress that enough."

"Of course," Max acknowledged before closing the door behind him, the doctor retreating back inside. "*sigh* Why can't things ever be normal?" he added, already aware of Scarlet's presence without looking.

{I wish I could answer that for you, especially after hearing all of that.} The gardevoir said, who was resting her back against the wall with her arms crossed. {Poor Dusk… Why did it have to be her of all pokémon? She's so sweet and kind and… It's just not fair.}

"You can say that again. As much as I want to go on a rant about this, we should keep these thoughts to ourselves when around Dusk. No need to make her feel worse than she already does."

Scarlet hummed in thought for a moment. {We can try but don't forget that she's a psychic-type who's getting stronger every day. She won't be able to read my mind, as I can block her, but she can easily read yours.}

"...Guess I'll have to try harder to block her out, then," Max replied with a scoff.

{...*sigh* I can place some mental barriers on you if you want to hide those thoughts specifically, but she'll eventually grow suspicious.} Scarlet suggested.

"If you want," Max replied, not sure of what to think at the moment.

Scarlet walked up to Max and comfortingly placed a hand on his cheek, looking into his eyes. {I forbid you to feel responsible for this, by the way. You're a good trainer, we just got unlucky, that's all.}

"And apparently, that's what's pissing me off the most," Max replied bitterly, briefly rubbing the back of his neck.

After Scarlet's eyes briefly glowed blue, indicating that the mental barrier was in place, she and Max went back to Dusk's room, where they saw the girls were trying to cheer her up. She was letting out a few chuckles thanks to Sally and May telling them about a funny video they saw recently.

"Alright Dusk, you've already been discharged, so we can leave right away," Max announced.

{Before we go, I want to apologize to everyone for the inconvenience I'm causing.} Dusk shared as she turned to everyone, her smile fading.

"Don't, Dusk," Max requested while raising his hand up. "You needed care and we made sure that you got it. No need to apologize for that."

{...Okay.} Dusk conceded, looking away.

"Alright. Think you can teleport us back to where we were?" Max asked Scarlet.

{Easily. The memory of our intended campsite is still fresh, so I should be able to put us back to exactly where we stood.} The gardevoir assured him.

"Great. Whenever you're ready, then," Max said, presenting one hand to Dusk.

Dusk took it with a small yet conflicted smile and left the bed as everyone gathered around Scarlet. The group then immediately vanished from the pokemon center and reappeared in the wooded area they were twenty-four hours ago.

{Ompf! Teleporting that many creatures over that distance is something else.} Scarlet commented, feeling dizzy for a few seconds while Max dropped the module.

"You were a great help, so take it easy for a while," Max advised as the module expanded itself. "Dusk, would you please come with me? I need to talk to you for a bit."

{...O-Okay.} Dusk complied, having a guess of what he wanted to talk about already.

As Max and Dusk went inside the module, towards the bedroom more specifically, Scarlet set up the outdoor table along with a few board games to keep everyone occupied.

{I really hope Dusk is alright.} Sally shared.

{Do you know what's going on with her?} Aurora asked Scarlet. {She said the doctor didn't tell her anything.}

{Yes, and… It's complicated} The gardevoir began, taking a moment to not get angry.

{Complicated… How, exactly?} Bonny said.

{Take a seat, girls.} Scarlet proposed while taking a seat herself. {This could take a while.}

Feeling unsettled at Scarlet's drop in mood, the rest of the group join her around the table, where she explains everything the doctor told Max, making sure to not leave out any details.

{You're… You're joking, right?} Bonny inquired after a moment, her eyes all widened.

{I'm afraid not.} Scarlet confirmed grimly.

{No. Not our Dusk. It can't be...} May said, almost in denial.

{Before we all lose our heads, let me remind you, girls, that this doesn't change a thing about her.} The gardevoir, seeing that everyone was utterly shocked. {So long as she doesn't use her powers excessively, she'll keep being the same Dusk we know.}

{But… She pretty much has to stop battling altogether.} Aurora pointed out. {Which sucks, considering all the hard work she's putting in to become stronger.}

{Well, she wasn't that much into battling anyway, so I'm sure she'll take it relatively well. Then again… *sigh* You're right, she's afraid of being a burden to us, so I'm afraid she will feel more useless than ever.}

{Ugh, I know that feeling all too well.} Bonny admitted. {This will hit her self-confidence hard, and no amount of comfort or support will help her feel otherwise.}

{There must be something we can do.} Sally affirmed.

{Well, besides not treating her differently and supporting her when needed… That's about it. I'm sorry.} Scarlet informed her.

{It's… no…}

Sally's eyes began to tear up uncontrollably, to which Bonny scooted closer to her and gently rubbed her back. This made the cinderace lean towards the lopunny until she was on her shoulders, where she began to cry into them.

{Not Dusk…} Sally bemoaned slightly, as Bonny had an arm around her while caressing her head with her other paw.

{I know it's sad, but there's not much we can do.} Scarlet said, feeling bad for making Sally cry.

{Are you sure? What about your psychic abilities?} May pointed out.

{Not even that, May. I'll say it again; Psychic abilities are the most omnipotent type of power compared to the other types, yet at the same time, they're also not. We can't perform miracles. If someone were to try, they will have to work at a cellular level or further for years without making any mistakes. One slip-up is all it takes for the host to be even worse than how they were originally, or god forbid die. I don't even know if such a power exists out there, but if it does, then it's definitely out of my reach.} Scarlet replied, with no one speaking due to the lack of hope. {Tch. It's been a while since I felt so helpless. I hate it. I hate it with a passion.} She growled.

Aurora sighed absentmindedly as Scarlet finished her rant. {I hate it too, but… it's true that there's not much we can do, besides trying to accept it. I can't deny that it pisses me off, though. She didn't do anything to deserve this.}

{Yeah, meanwhile there are assholes out there who are just fine.} Bonny approved.

{Maybe… she will take the news better than we think.} May said, trying to be positive. {After all, this isn't the first time something bad has happened to us, and she took those situations pretty well.}

{It's true, but… Yeah. Maybe she will.} Scarlet lied, not wanting to stain her positivity.

Everyone remained silent as they processed the news while Bonny tried her best to calm Sally down. As her sobs started to die down, the door of the module opened with Max stepping out, who then joined the girls upon noticing them.

{So…?} Bonny asked.

"She needs some alone time for now."

{How did she take the news?} Aurora questioned.

Max shrugged his shoulders in response. "I don't know… She seemed so absentminded that I can't really tell."

{I have a bad feeling about this. Dusk is pretty good at hiding her emotions, so I wouldn't be surprised if she tried to hold this all in.} Scarlet mentioned.

"I know, but what can we do? If we barge in when she wants to be alone, it's gonna make things worse," Max added.

{I'm aware of that, thank you.} The gardevoir retorted a bit abruptly. {...*sigh* If it's okay with you, can you let me talk to her? It's one of those moments that—}

"Only a pokémon can deal with," Max finished before her. "Yeah, I kind of figured that one out. Besides, if it's about psychic stuff, then it'd make sense that it be consulted with another psychic-type."

{Thanks. We give her some space for now and I'll go check on her later.}

"Still, I'm no psychic-type pokemon, but I can only assume how hard this is for her."

{Well, it could be worse.} Aurora stated. {She could've fatally wounded herself or risked being in a coma.}

{For once, I agree.} Scarlet approved. {Even though she has this "condition", she can still experience the best life has to offer.}

{With a loving master at her side, that's guaranteed.} Bonny said, trying to lift everyone's spirits.

{Right. She's lucky because there are some trainers out there who could have abandoned her for something that's not her fault, or worse.} May affirmed as she nodded in agreement.

"Only power-hungry jerks, May. A decent trainer would never ditch a companion for something they have no control over," Max corrected.

For the next hour or so, everyone tried to change the subject by watching funny videos on the tablet. Scarlet then stood up as Max was about to show the next video.

"Where are you going?" Max asked.

{To see how Dusk is doing.}

"Already?"

{Uh huh. She may say otherwise, but I can't help but feel that she needs someone right now.} The gardevoir specified before entering the module.

Once in, she approached the bedroom door and gently knocked.

{Dusk? Can I come in?}

Even though she didn't hear any answer, Scarlet knew that the answer was yes. After making the door slide open, she stepped inside before closing and locking it behind her. Right at the foot of the bed, Dusk was seen sitting on the ground, quietly crying to herself while holding the pill bottle in her hands.

{I… didn't hear your answer, so I hope it's okay that I sit here.} Scarlet said before sitting next to the delphox, a bit uncomfortably.

Scarlet looked down at Dusk, thinking of something to say to try and cheer her up. However, to her own surprise, she just didn't have the words.

{Heh… Here I am, but… I don't know what to say.} She said before laughing lightly and nervously. {I'm… Not as good as Max with this sort of thing.}

{It's… *sob* It's okay.} Dusk replied between sobs. {There's nothing much to say anyway. You would just be wasting your time.}

{Not at all, Dusk. You'll always be worth my time, no matter what.}

{*sob* Sure, you say that now.} Dusk replied,

{...Dusk… I…}

Scarlet was once again at a loss for words, and after a moment of thinking, she then realized why. She's been trying to find the words to help Dusk, rather than actually be there for her. After all, actions do speak louder than words.

{...*sigh* Forgive me if I sound a bit too harsh but… You know Dusk, it's not the end of the world.}

Dusk looked up at Scarlet with a mixture of sadness and anger. {Easy for you to say, you can keep being a powerful psychic-type while I have to give up trying to become one!}

{Who said you had to—}

{No one had to tell me.} Dusk cut her off. {I've worked so hard for so long to not be a burden to the team. I may not enjoy battling as much as the rest of you, and I may not be good at a lot of things, but I still managed to pull my own weight despite that. At least… That's what I thought. *sniff* Not only am I useless, but I now have a condition that makes me a danger to everyone here!} Dusk explained, throwing the bottle on the ground before starting to cry again. {What am I supposed to do?!}

{Now now, Dusk. You know that's not true, so let's try to clarify things together, shall we?} Scarlet said softly before pulling her into a friendly hug. {First, you're not useless, so purge that from your head this instant. I admit that your fighting prowess isn't the best I've ever seen, but that's just because you don't like fighting. If you did, you could easily be one of the strongest of the team. However, remember that you're a freaking fire and psychic-type pokémon, one of, if not the most, unique typings ever. Do you know what a pokémon like you can do when you put your mind to it, whether it be in human society or battling? Many would be jealous of your potential.}

Dusk stared down at the ground past Scarlet with her shoulders shaking. {*sniff* What's the point if I can't do anything with it?}

{Come on, Dusk. All we have to do is avoid going over your limits. I doubt it will ever happen while you cook us some delicious meals.}

{*Sob* It's not about that. I… I wanted to surprise master by continuing to train and battle, even though I prefer not to fight. I wanted to be strong for him... to protect and fight for him when he really needs me. Now… *sniff* Now all I'll be good for is doing housework.}

{I… well… I mean…} Scarlet stuttered.

{*sob* But you're right.} Dusk said, pulling herself away from the hug. {Whining about it won't help much… I should just face the facts and live with it already.} She added before grabbing the bottle of pills off the ground. {From now on, this delphox will only be known… As the "housewife pokémon".}

Dusk worked on the bottle to open it, upsettingly trying to force it open for a few seconds. Right as she opened the bottle and was about to grab a pill, Scarlet placed a hand on Dusk's, stopping her.

{...What if I told you there was another way?} Scarlet said as Dusk was looking at her interrogatively.

{W-What do you mean?}

Scarlet slowly made Dusk put the cap back on the bottle and set it down next to her. {I get why you want to be stronger, and even if you think you're not good enough, your drive to improve is something I respect. So despite the unfairness of all this, I'm not gonna let all that work you put in go to waste.}

{*sniff* H-How?}

{I don't have a solid answer right now, but if using your abilities is what's making you lose control, then maybe, just maybe… I can help you regain some control.}

Dusk wiped away her eyes as she heard Scarlet's idea. {I'm… not sure I follow.}

{So here's what I'm thinking…} Scarlet began, fervently looking into Dusk's eyes. {We keep training like we always have. Whenever you're about to go berserk on us, I'll use my own powers to calm yours.}

Dusk, although she liked the idea, was a bit skeptical considering the circumstances. Although a part of her wanted to continue training and overcoming her dislike for battle, another part of her didn't want to get her hopes up in the event that Scarlet's idea doesn't work.

{A-Are you sure about this?} Dusk asked with a hint of doubt. {Will Max even be okay with this?}

{I don't know for sure that he wouldn't be okay with it.} the gardevoir replied confidently, Dusk looking at her for a moment before looking away.

{I don't know... It could be dangerous.}

{Heh, I'm dangerous.} Scarlet chuckled. {See, the risk is calculated.}

Dusk was then immediately touched by Scarlet's intentions to where she was about to tear up again. She was ready to risk her own safety for her, just so she could keep working towards a goal that didn't seem like a big deal.

{You want to keep master safe, Dusk. If you ask me, that's a goal worth fighting for.} Scarlet mentioned, knowing what she was thinking.

{...I don't think we should do this…} Dusk replied with tears still present in her eyes. {It's risky and it could take a long-}

{Dusk…} The gardevoir cut her off, grabbing the delphox's cheeks to make her look at Scarlet's eyes. {We're friends. It may not seem like much to you, but the fact that I'm telling you this means a lot more than you think it does. I won't abandon you, and you wouldn't either, would you?}

{Of course, I wouldn't!} Dusk confirmed.

{There we go. That's what we do as friends Dusk, we help each other.} Scarlet reaffirmed, whipping Dusk's tears with her thumbs.

Dusk leaned into Scarlet's shoulder and cried once more. {*sob* I wish I could pull my own weight better.}

{We all have limits. Some less often than others, but more hardly. I always try to act like otherwise, but even so, I have moments where I wish I could just give up. However, do you know why that's been happening less and less?}

{*sob* Why?}

Scarlet showed Dusk the warmest smile she could make.{Because I have friends like you to rely on.}

Hearing Scarlet say those very words was probably one the best things Dusk has ever heard. Scarlet, a powerful pokémon who has always had to rely on herself, was here giving moral support to someone she considers her friend. It was at this moment that she began to experience similar feelings as the love she had for Max. If she could fall in love with someone else, let alone a female pokemon, she would have.

{*sniff* Hehe. Only you could say something so crazy and make me feel better.} Dusk jested while wiping her eyes.

{You're not crazy Dusk, get over it.} Scarlet said with a smile while rolling her eyes. {You just have a small grain, which officially makes you one of us. Welcome to the family.}

{Wait, I wasn't included before?}

{Nope. You were too normal and boring.}

Despite Dusk knowing that Scarlet was trying to lift her spirits, her words were starting to confuse and even scare her.

{...I'm just messing with you, silly.} Scarlet assured her with a gentle elbow nudge. {Of course, you've always been part of the family.} She added, making Dusk sigh lightly in relief. {But that being said, it won't be easy for me. I'll always have to be somewhat stronger than you if I want to keep your wild side under control. So sorry to tell you this, but you're not allowed to be stronger than me.} she said, mostly as a joke.

{It's okay. I just want to protect master, I'm not looking to be stronger than anyone, to be honest.}

Despite feeling a little better about herself, something was still on the delphox's mind, Scarlet noticing this as Dusk stared at the ground while softly snuffling.

{Something else on your mind?} The gardevoir guessed.

{...Kinda.}

The gardevoir comfortingly wrapped her arm around Dusk as she sat down next to her. {Tell aunty Scarlet what's bugging you, then.}

{...You know, before Max told me that soul-crushing news, there was… another thing that I was dealing with. I… It's a bit embarrassing to say, but…} Dusk said, looking at Scarlet for a brief moment. {I-I think I'm comfortable with telling you. I probably should've said something before, especially to master, but as of late, I… Nevermind, I'll just tell you.}

{Uh huh…}

Dusk took a deep breath and rubbed her arm nervously. {To be honest, Scarlet, I always felt like I was the black sheep of the group.}

{Seriously.} Scarlet expressed, as she was genuinely surprised by this. {What makes you think that?}

{It may be hard to explain, but to me, it's kind of obvious. I feel like… everyone has some sort of quality that makes them unique, while I'm just… Dusk.}

Scarlet blinked in confusion. {Just Dusk? Care to elaborate?}

{Well, Luna's the lone zoroark, Bonny's the unstoppable lopunny, May's the cheerful mawile… You get the idea. But what about me? I'm just—}

{Dusk?} Scarlet answered before she could finish. {Dusk the supportive delphox? The girl that balances the group and keeps everyone's tempers at bay? The pokémon that helps master and me stay on the right path? Yeah, I think I know her.}

{...Maybe you're—}

{Not exaggerating in the slightest.} Scarlet interrupted, knowing what she was about to say. {Seriously, Dusk, I think you're underestimating your importance in the group. Not only are you a bright light to us, but your ability to cook well and keep misfits like us on the correct moral path is undeniable. Sure, you're the one that does all the chores, but it was your idea, remember? It doesn't change the fact that you're so goddamn good at it. Why do you think master always tells you that he sees you as the perfect wife? You actually are marriage material, meanwhile, I'm just a sociopathic girlfriend with an intense libido and a thirst for excessive violence.}

{I…}

Dusk went a bit lost for a moment. At first, she wasn't sure if Scarlet's words were truthful, but the more she thought about it, the more she believed that maybe she was overthinking her "black sheep" feeling. She was always so impressed and a little envious of everyone else's identities that she completely overlooked her own. Not only would the group be completely dysfunctional without her, she was also the one they would look towards whenever they were feeling down. She would listen and support them the best she could, however, Dusk developed the habit of forgetting about herself as time went on, something that everyone can relate to. Always taking care of others without considering herself as an important variable. There was also a chance that she might've relied on Max too much for that part, as sometimes, there are instances that can only be managed by one's self, such as knowing and respecting their own limits.

{Oh my god…} Dusk complained, grabbing her head. {I tried so much to be like you guys that I completely forgot who I really am.}

{It's okay, Dusk.} The gardevoir amusedly reassured the delphox while rubbing her back. {It happens to the best of us. Now you know what you'll have to be careful about.}

{...*sigh* I suppose so, but… Besides all of that, I still feel bad for what I am.}

{I get that, and like I said, I'll do my best to make it not become a problem anymore as long as I'm with you. Hell, I'll even get one of the other girls to watch us for extra security if you like.}

Dusk smiled as she turned to look at Scarlet before wrapping her arms around her for a hug.

{...Thanks, Scarlet. I'm really glad to have you as a friend.} Dusk whispered happily as she tightened the hug a little.

{Hehe, no problem.} Scarlet replied, returning the hug. {We psychic-types gotta stick together, am I right?}

{Hehe. You know, you say that I hold the team together… I don't know about being the light, but I truly believe that you're doing a better job than me at keeping us strong and welded.}

{Well, thanks I guess, but—}

{I really mean it.} Dusk affirmed, breaking the hug to look Scarlet in the eyes. {You're the pillar of this team, you always know what to do or say. Our team wouldn't be where it is without you. If I'm the light, then you're the engine that makes it move forward.}

{Hehe. Nice metaphor.} Scarlet replied, chuckling nervously while trying to look away.

{I know you're not comfortable with compliments, but I needed to tell you. I also get that we've never told you how grateful we are for what you do, so…} Dusk said before tightening her hug once more, catching the gardevoir by surprise. {Thanks for everything you do, Scarlet. Thanks for making the present possible.}

{I… no… thanks… you… ehh…} Scarlet stuttered, going awfully red while feeling a bit dizzy due to extreme embarrassment.

{Hihi. Sorry.} The delphox apologized, slightly amused as she broke the hug. Scarlet then turned away from Dusk and avoided her gaze.

{*Ahem* W-Well, if you're feeling better, I g-guess I'll be going now.} the gardevoir announced, barely able to speak properly.

{I am, thanks to you.}

{Great. G-Glad to have been of some kind of assistance.} Scarlet said, standing up, eager to leave as soon as possible.

Dusk giggled as she did the same and the two of them headed outside, Scarlet immediately sitting down next to Max and burying her face in Max's chest. Dusk sat down across from him while he played a different board game with May, Sally, and Bonny.

"Whoa! What happened?" Max asked in surprise.

{...I-It's Dusk. She's being too nice to me.} She complained in his shirt.

"Aww! Really?" Max replied, looking at Dusk who was sitting next to Bonny.

{I'm sorry.} Dusk apologized with a slightly embarrassed smile. {I was just being honest.}

"Is that so? Poor little thing." Max jested, stroking Scarlet's hair. "Will it make you feel better if I called you an ugly bitch?"

{...A little.} Scarlet replied sheepishly.

{Come on, master.} Bonny intervened. {Stop feeding her bad habits. She's gonna have to learn to take compliments someday.}

{Mind your own business, lopunny.} Scarlet said with a huff.

"I know, but let's not rush things. She has to get used to everyone not treating her so harshly. She may not survive everyone complimenting her at once right now, but she's making progress. She can now take 'you're beautiful' pretty well now," Max jested, making the girls share a laugh before turning to Dusk. "Do you want to join the game?" He asked the delphox while ignoring Scarlet's groans of embarrassment.

{Sure, but you seem quite ahead in your game, though.}

{It's okay. We don't mind starting over.} Sally assured her.

{Which is good for you, as you were not doing too good.} Bonny nagged playfully.

{Pfft, I was gonna make a comeback…} The cinderace retorted, making the girls laugh again.

The rest of the day went by relatively quickly with no incidents, with everyone relaxing around their artificial campfire at sunset, and eating dinner. To Max's surprise, Luna proposed to join the meal but was oddly quiet the whole time. In fact, she kept her distance from the rest of the team, mostly observing them and answering with short sentences upon being addressed. After dinner, they enjoyed their time together until nightfall, Max standing up while stretching his arms.

"Well… I think it's time I had a small shower," he announced with a groan as he stopped stretching.

{Can I join?} Scarlet proposed.

{Hey! I was about to ask.} Bonny complained, crossing her arms.

{Better luck next time.}

"Then I better take it outside, so that everyone can see me naked," Max reminded them while rolling his eyes.

{Oh, right. Hehe…} Bonny said with a dimwitted smile.

Before Max began walking toward the module, Luna suddenly stood up as well.

{Hem, little… *ahem* M-Max?} She engaged a bit nervously, which was strange coming from her.

"Hm? You want to join as well?" Max tried to guess.

{N-Not exactly. May I… have a word with you before you shower?}

"...Sure." Max answered after briefly looking at Scarlet and Bonny, who shrugged at him as if they didn't know what she had planned.

Luna gestured to Max to follow her into the woods, the latter a bit confused as to what her intentions might be. As the two of them walked away side-by-side, the girls looked at them interrogatively, trying to rack their brains on why Luna was acting so weird.

{...So what do you think?} Bonny asked.

{Honestly, I don't know.} Scarlet replied as she scratched her head. {Luna's the only one here that I can't really predict what she'll do next, and I'm not saying that because I can't read her mind. She could do anything, really.}

{Should we… keep an eye on them?}

{Hmm… I highly doubt she wants to hurt him, so no. Besides, Max has always been safe from harm whenever she's close. He trusts her, and so do I.} Scarlet said before sitting back with the others.

{...If you say so.} Bonny conceded, doing the same.

~POVC~

"It's been a while since you specifically requested to be alone with me," Max mentioned as they walked along.

{I think it's the first time also.} Luna replied, nervously avoiding his gaze.

"Ooh, that's even worse," Max joked with a chuckle. "What's the occasion?"

{Should there always be a reason for me to want to spend time with you?}

"Well, I mean, no, but… you were pretty quiet today, more so than usual. I assumed that there was something wrong."

Luna turned to Max with a raised eyebrow. {There always seems to be something wrong whenever I'm around, is there?}

"What? No. Not at all. I just—" Max stammered before being cut off by the zoroark.

{Hihi. Calm down little pup, I was just messing with you.} she giggled.

"Pfft. I can't with you girls, sometimes."

The two of them shared a quick laugh until Luna quickly stopped, making Max do the same.

{But truth be told, there is a reason why I wanted to bring you here. A very personal reason, at that.} she admitted.

Max smirked as he figured that Luna was up to something. "Heh, knew it. I'm all ears, what is it?"

Instead of answering, Luna turned to look at Max with a warm smile.

{Before I tell you, I actually have a surprise for you. It's something I've been wanting to do for you, to repay all that you've done for me.}

"Really? Well, I'll be damned," Max jested.

{What is it?} Luna asked, placing her paws on her hips.

"Oh nothing, it's just seeing you be so nice all of a sudden is throwing me off," Max jested, knowing she was messing with him as usual. "But, in all seriousness, what is it you want to do for me?"

{Well…} Luna began while looking away. {So far, you've managed to see our world through the eyes of a gardevoir, thanks to Scarlet. Therefore, I was wondering if you wanted to see this world through the eyes of a zoroark.}

"Oh… I take it that means you want to show me?" Max presumed, looking up at her.

{Careful, he's learning~.} Luna nagged playfully.

"Not that I don't want to, but how are we supposed to switch bodies? No way I'm asking that troll of a water fairy for 'help', assuming we can even find him again."

Luna's grin grew as she had another method in mind. {Who says we have to switch bodies?}

Before Max could say anything else, Luna turned around with her back facing the human and kneeled before him, her arms reaching behind her.

"Wait… you want me to… cling onto you?"

{Mmhmm. Unless you think we aren't yet close enough for this sort of proposal.}

"...Alright. I'm just wondering where you're going with this." Max said before mounting her back, the zoroark adjusting her stance and grip on him.

{You're about to find out. Hold on tight.} she told him as she jumped onto a nearby tree.

"...Wait. Don't tell me you—"

Luna cut him off once more by leaping from tree to tree with no intention of stopping.

"WOOAAAH!" Max exclaimed as Luna kept jumping from tree to tree at alluring speed. "Ookay! Oooo-kay!"

Now already at an incredibly high altitude, Max and Luna traveled across the forest, barely spending half a second on each branch they landed on before jumping onto the next. It was scary at first, but Max eventually got used to it and began to enjoy the scenery, as well as the speed at which he was traveling. Meanwhile, Luna was making sure nothing could hurt Max, seeing as though they sped past a couple of animals and a few pokemon, scaring them as they went along. After a few moments of this, it seemed like Luna was starting to have too much fun as she began to accelerate, making it look like she could easily trip and lose control at any time.

"Uh, L-Luna? Aren't we going… a bit too fast?" Max asked nervously, the zoroark saying nothing in reply.

Luna continued to leap and jump at incredible speeds, all while ignoring Max's growing concerns. Those concerns then translated to a slight panic as Max saw a clear path through the forest, the night's light shining through the trees. The closer they were to the light, the more Max realized that they were approaching the edge of a cliff.

"Hem… L-Luna? I-I don't want to alarm you, but I think there's a cliff ahead."

{I'm aware, little pup.} Luna stated, keeping a straight path.

"Uh, Luna… I really think we should turn around," Max exclaimed in a slight panic, his pleas falling on deaf ears.

When they were just a couple of meters away, Max could even see a vast wooded landscape below them, confirming the cliff theory.

"Luna?!" Max called out with a petrified gaze, despite the zoroark still not stopping. "Luna! Luna, Luna, Luna!"

Passing the last tree, Luna made one final jump, making them both temporarily float through the air, hundreds of meters away from the circular valley beneath the cliff Luna jumped off of.

"Luunaaaaa!" Max screamed as they were quickly descending.

Holding onto the zoroark as tightly as he could, Max closed his eyes and shoved his face into Luna's mane, too scared to look. Unfortunately for him, it made him miss Luna showing off her athleticism, scratching her claws on a tree to slow down her fall before jumping onto another tree to repeat the same motion. She did this a few times until she was on ground level, the two of them coming out unscathed. Max barely had time to open his eyes before Luna got on all fours and dashed forward. Max let out another yelp and continued to hold on, not expecting her to immediately take off after all that. He didn't know how fast she was going exactly, but could only guess that Luna was running at around fifty miles per hour. Despite traveling at high speeds once more, Max finally had a chance to breathe, thankful to be alive.

{Are you alright back there, Max?} Luna called out to him.

"Holy… *wheeze* H-Holy shit… LUNA! Don't you ever do that again!" Max warned.

Choosing to ignore him, Luna ran for a few minutes until she jumped onto another tree and leaped off of it towards the cliff on the opposite side of the valley. Even as she scaled the rock wall, her speed was crazy. Her claws were sinking into the cliffside as if it were only butter, making her climb it very efficiently. It only took about a minute before they reached the top, where Luna jumped from tree to tree once again. At this point, Max began to wonder if she had a destination in mind or was carrying him around just for the sake of it. He would then receive his answer in the form of Luna making a huge leap onto an enormously tall tree and beginning to scale that like she did with the cliff. They had reached the top in a matter of seconds, where she finally stopped to admire the view. Upon looking around, Max noticed that they were probably atop the tallest tree in the entire area, making him able to see miles upon miles away.

{Beautiful, isn't it?} Luna commented with a smile.

"*pant* Y-You're telling me." Max replied, mesmerized by the scenery but still shaken by the whole experience. "Whoa…! So this is what you do when you're by yourself."

{Well, not really. I made you a special case by doing a lot more than I usually do. I mostly wanted to scare you a little.}

Max was dumbfounded by how Luna would do such a thing and treat it like it was no big deal. "That was a 'little scare'?! You're a jerk, Luna."

Luna chuckled at Max's misfortune and sighed. {If it makes you feel any better, I wouldn't have done that if I wasn't sure you could hold on tight enough.}

"Strangely, not that much," Max replied, almost immediately.

{Hahaha!} Luna laughed lightly before gesturing to a nearby branch. {Want to have a seat?}

"I-I'm just fine where I am, thank you," Max replied uneasily, not wanting to sit on an unstable branch at this altitude.

{Hihi. Alright. I figured you'd say that, but I had to ask, just in case.}

"Can't blame you for that."

Max and Luna stared at the open horizon for a few moments while they could still make out some form of sunlight in the distance. It was unfortunate that they weren't admiring this view at sunset, for the sun had disappeared beyond their point of view until their only form of light were the stars and part of the moon.

{Alright, I don't think you'll see much else from here.} Luna said, the night almost completely settled.

"Yeah. You say I'd see through your eyes, but I still don't have night vision," Max jested with Luna letting out a chuckle. "So what the hell, Luna?

With that, Luna climbed down the tree at a more gentle pace, with Max still on her back. It didn't take long for the view of the horizon to disappear as they descended, a part of them wishing they'd enjoy it a little longer. Once they were on the ground, Max jumped down from her, his legs shaking as if he just gotten off the most insane roller coaster of his life.

"Oof. That was rough for my arms," Max commented, shaking his arms lightly.

{Hihi. I'm glad you were able to hold on, especially for my last big trip.}

"Yeah. Good thing I was more or less forced to strengthen my grip on you…" Max said before abruptly stopping. "...Wait, hold on a second. 'Your last big trip'?"

Sighing lightly, Luna turned to look away while rubbing her arm.

{I've… I've made up my mind, Max…} she began, Max lowering his eyebrows with curiosity.

"About… Us, I take it?"

{...Not just us as in "you and me".} the zoroark continued. {You were right… You all were. I can't keep living the way I do, not like this. It's time that I stop being afraid of painful what-ifs, that I should try to live my life in pursuit of happiness, regardless of what the past did to me. You all helped me realize that.}

"I'm… Glad that you feel that way, but… *gulp* What do you mean by that?" Max asked, getting slightly nervous.

Luna briefly looked at Max and smiled before looking away again.

{My situation needs to change. I need to change. I need to let go of my past and enjoy the present so that I can better prepare for the future. Therefore…} She said before turning to face Max with her paws to her sides. {I am officially giving up my status as a wild pokémon… and will be embracing our relationship.}

"...Huh? What?" Max expressed after a few seconds of processing. "You…"

{Will be seeing much more of me around you all. I am here to stay.}

"...I-… W-Wow. Luna, that's… That's fantastic!" Max celebrated before restraining himself, trying to think about how she felt about this. "But… are you sure?"

Luna rubbed her arm a bit more, looking down at the ground as she did. {Yes. It scares me a little, but… I want to properly bond with you and the others. I've never learned how since I've been alone for so long, so I figured that changing my lifestyle would be a good start since it doesn't match yours.}

"Well…" Max said, rubbing the back of his head while looking away. "This is good news, like, really good news… *groan* Why am I suddenly against this?! I know you'll say that I shouldn't be, but—"

{Indeed, you shouldn't.} Luna interrupted, knowing what he was about to say. {You didn't sway my decision one way or another, nor are you pulling me away from my 'home', so to speak. This is something I'm choosing for myself, therefore I want this.}

Max was at a complete loss for words; A part of him was ecstatic about Luna staying, yet another part of him was so conflicted about this that he didn't know what to say.

"...Why me? I mean yeah, we like each other a lot, but you didn't really give yourself a chance to create a very deep bond with me, unlike the others. Why choose me; a bland, average-intelligent, young adult human nobody with a self-destructive savior complex over some other 'mon, or rather, another zoroark that could fulfill your needs better than I ever can?"

{*sigh* If I'm being honest, I don't know.} Luna admitted as Max finished his little rant. {The heart wants what it wants, as humans say. The truth is, the more time I spent with you, both observing from afar and within your company, the clearer it became in my head. I am aware that you're not a zoroark and that I wouldn't sacrifice much should I be with one, however, I would end up sacrificing more if… I'm not with you. I would have to put on a fake persona with another pokémon, but not you. Your open-mindedness is what allows everyone around you to be themselves, which means a lot for many, myself included. Yes, I could keep searching for an ideal or 'perfect' mate, but why would I when there's one standing right before me? You're not perfect, you have many flaws as you pointed out, but it is because of those flaws that make you perfect for me. I do not want any other prey, Max… I want you.}

Max stood there captivated by her words as if they were poetry in motion. "Luna, I… I don't know what to say."

{Really? Not even a snarky remark or a "thank you?} Luna replied, slightly amused.

"O-Of course I'll say 'thank you', but… it's so sudden, and… I'm really touched. It's just a major blow to my emotions right now."

{Hihi. Aren't you exaggerating a little? To give you an idea, it's not that different from how you and Scarlet declare your love for each other.}

Max waved his hand dismissively at Luna's remark. "Pfft, c'mon Luna, it's totally different. I kind of grew used to what you are, and I kind of, well, while not completely giving up the idea, I wasn't thinking about that anymore. I just told myself that, it's how you are, plain and simple."

{...}

"I really am happy about it, I just… wasn't expecting it, is all. Your wounds were so deep that I didn't think there was much more I could do to help anymore."

{Well, looks like you can actually make miracles. I'm aware that it might not work in the long run, but I'm willing to give us a try.}

"Yeah, like every relationship ever. Still, I don't fully understand yet. How come I've tried so hard all my life to become someone or do something better and fail miserably, and somehow make miracles happen just by being myself?! It makes no sense," Max complained, making Luna chuckle.

{Why do you always bother yourself with such trivial questions? What matters are the results, right?}

Max sighed exasperatingly. "True, but… Tch, I don't know. I guess I'm self-conscious about what everyone expects from me. I don't want to deceive anyone by posing as something I'm not."

{Oh, you poor little tike.} Luna said before getting behind Max and gently hugging him. {Since when have you deceived us?} She asked while rubbing his chest.

"Hmph. A couple of times, actually."

{Well, I think you've confused deception for disappointment.}

Max leaned back into Luna's embrace. "What's the difference?"

{Everything. One is mostly intentional while the other just happens. I know you want the best for everyone, but disappointment is, unfortunately, part of life. It's physically impossible to please everyone at the same time, especially when you have to please yourself first.}

Max rubbed his face. "...Still… Wait. 'Little tike'?"

{Why yes. Aren't you my precious little tike now?} Luna asked, dropping her head over Max's.

"Hem…"

{Sorry, but I couldn't help myself. Our little pup is all grown up now despite him still being small, cute, vulnerable, and looking absolutely delicious.}

"But… Oh well. I guess it's an improvement from 'little pup'," Max said, a bit embarrassed.

{I can call you something else if it's too degrading for you.} Luna offered.

"No, it's fine. I figured that this is another 'Luna' quirk, so I might as well roll with it. Besides, beggars can't be choosers, right?"

{Then it's official, you are now my little tike.} The zoroark announced before strongly nuzzling Max.

"Yay for me," Max replied sarcastically in a playful manner.

{I cannot wait for the day when you will become a strong and vigorous hound.}

"Yeah, because I still have a long way to go, apparently," said Max with a groan.

{That is correct. You haven't forgotten what I told you back at that Ditto barn, have you?}

"Unfortunately… I'm wondering if it's even worth it since I can't seem to catch a break in that matter."

{Aww, how I pity you so.} She jested, bringing a claw to her chin in a haughty fashion. {Speaking of which, what if I were to propose some… practice rounds right now?} She added, gently tracing her claws under Max's shirt, under his skin.

"You already know the answer, so why ask?"

{Because unlike some, I prefer asking first since it's more polite.}

"Would you look at that? Luna does have a lady's class," Max jested.

{Perhaps… What would you do if it was the case?}

"A lot of things, but unfortunately, you're bigger and heavier than me."

Luna raised an eyebrow at Max and smirked. {Is that so? My, my, Scarlet wasn't kidding when she said you're good with excuses.}

"I'm not, it's just the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth," Max replied confidently.

{Uh huh. What if I make it easier for you?} She asked softly near one ear.

"I…"

Luna then separated from Max's back and slowly laid on her side in front of him.

{I should be easy prey for you now.}

"Dark meat, my favorite," Max commented with a smile.

Going over Luna, he kneeled and pushed her onto her back. Even without any trace of resistance or muscle tension, Max was impressed at how vulnerable she was being to him. Nevertheless, Max put her on her back rather effortlessly and crawled over her.

"Heh, it's so weird and funny how the stronger and bigger creature is the one on her back," Max chuckled nervously.

{Consider yourself lucky. Not many get the chance to experience that feeling. Now, let's be quiet and enjoy our time together.} Luna replied, affectionately running her claw under Max's chin.

"Are you sure? I'm still unable to… you know…"

{Put those thoughts out of your mind little tike, that's not important. Just enjoy yourself for now, and who knows? Maybe I will too.}

"No, I-"

{You do, or we're not doing it.} She said in a quite intimidating way, despite herself.

"...*sigh* It's hard to bargain with you, isn't it?"

{It's impossible, yes.} Luna replied with a smug grin.

"Alright. You can't say I'm not thinking about you, though."

{You always do, so this time, think about only yourself.}

"I only promise to try," Max told her, quickly rolling his eyes in slight amusement.

{Good boy.} Luna said with intense and lustful eyes.

Smiling, Max leaned closer and started off their session with some kissing. While he did that, he ran hands across her soft fur, even going as far as trying to rub the skin underneath. As the kissing was getting more passionate, Max pressed his hand harder, now wanting to feel more of her muscular figure. He started with her chest and shoulders, slowly yet firmly pressing against them before making his way down. He made sure to leave no part of her untreated as he did the same with her abdomen and sides until his hands got to one of his favorite parts of her body; her hips. He reached towards her rear and squeezed it just enough in an attempt to get a pleasurable reaction out of her. Max was successful as he heard Luna let out a brief moan into his mouth, followed by a sudden draft of fresh air breezing against his hard member. Looking down, he noticed that Luna managed to work on his pants and free his manhood without him noticing.

"Damn, Luna. I know you don't like talking, but your expertise is such a turn-on," Max quipped, the zoroark staring into his eyes with a cheeky grin. "Here I go, then."

Max moved a bit lower down her body and aligned himself correctly to slowly slide his rod inside Luna's love tunnel. Unlike previous times, she allowed herself to show a bit of a lewd expression, despite letting out a moan that was barely audible. Although Luna wasn't the tightest or most attractive zoroark, that didn't stop Max from going in as far as he could since the zoroark had something unique to her; A bump that was located just before her uterus' entrance. Her bump was incredibly difficult to deal with on its own, as it was known to practically assault Max's soft spots. She could use it to lock Max in place and make things harder for him if she wanted to but didn't as she saw no point in this. Luna was a pokémon who took mating very seriously, meaning that the best sex sessions are the ones where it was just her and her partner being one with each other. No talking, teasing, making jokes, or sudden sexual gestures… Just sex and nothing else.

"Fuck!" Max groaned after his head got past her bump, sending a strong wave of pleasure through his body.

Thrusting into her pussy and past her bump was one thing, but pulling out was another. It was similar to a spike trap where you cannot get your hands out once you put them in, only it's Max's dick that cannot escape and the pain is replaced with pleasure. Despite that, he was able to pull back, with the bump making his lower half go weak for a moment before going back in again. It always takes Max a couple of slow thrusts before settling into a decent pace, allowing Luna to have a little bit of fun too. However, the intense friction applied on his tip didn't allow Max to last very long, as he felt his first orgasm after only a couple of minutes.

"Fuck, Luna!" Max grunted ecstatically while pounding the zoroark with more force as he spilled his semen inside her.

When done, Max took a minute to catch his breath, his tip still pressing against her bump.

"*pant* I wonder… if I'll even last ten minutes with you… let alone make you orgasm," Max commented.

{Don't lose hope, my little tike. You'll make it there with enough time and patience.} Luna encouraged as she rubbed his back.

"*pant* You're gonna be the death of me before that time comes. How come our genitals are so different and incompatible, yet they work out so well? It's like something like me isn't supposed to get there, but your inside is somehow made in a way that it can milk me good. It's kinda weird when you think about it."

{Hihi. Life always finds a way.}

Max lifted his head up and looked at Luna with praise in his eyes. "I won't complain, though. You're amazing. Too amazing, actually. Your bump gets me every time, it's almost like how Scarlet makes me more sensitive."

{All that matters is that you're enjoying yourself, right?}

"I guess," Max conceded with a smile. "I still wish I could do more for you."

{What did we talk about?} Luna asked in a scolding manner.

"I know, but you can't stop me from wanting to please you. Otherwise, that would make me sound like a selfish prick," Max said before starting to caress one of Luna's cheeks. "You're not the only one who's in love here."

Luna let out a discouraged sigh as she responded in kind by gently scratching Max's head.{You're right, I can't. If you ever find a way to please me better, then good on you. However, I'm happy with how things are at the moment. Otherwise, I wouldn't get on my back in front of you and unzip your pants without you knowing if it wasn't the case.}

"..."

{Now let's stop this conversation and keep going if you can.} Luna said, bopping Max's nose.

"*sigh* Might as well give up on that for now." Max shared, a bit discouraged.

{A wise decision.}

Max then gave Luna a quick kiss to get himself back in the mood. "Alrighty then, also what kind of question was that? Of course, I can keep going. No way I couldn't with a hottie like you. Let's just put me in the mood and we're good to go."

With a smile, Luna placed her paws behind Max's head and back eagerly making out with him. It didn't take very long for Max to get turned on again, prompting Luna to withdraw her tongue and look at Max with a lustful and needy stare. Max immediately responded in kind by pounding her once more, hardly able to keep a steady rhythm due to his increased sensitivity thanks to the zoroark's bump. However, unlike last time, Luna moaned a bit louder and even helped Max's thrusts by wrapping her legs around his waist. Despite the zoroark helping Max last a minute longer, he couldn't hold his second orgasm in and came inside her.

"...Oof!" Max expressed after a long-lasting orgasm. "I… That's gonna do it for me."

{Was it good?}

"Yeah. Too good, actually."

{Then it all worked out. I'm glad you had fun, I did too.} Luna responded in a seductive tone.

"...*Sigh* If you say so," Max replied before moving away.

Luna didn't like his sudden drop in mood but knew that she had to let him adapt to his own rhythm. She has faith that one day, he will understand that sex isn't all about making one orgasm or vice versa.

{We should probably get back home.} Luna said as she sat up.

Max carefully stood up to put his boxers and pants back, as his legs were still a bit wobbly. "I hear ya. With how anxious and paranoid the girls are, it's only a matter of time before they start assuming the worst," Max explained while zipping up his pants.

{Don't say that, little tike.} Luna disapproved with a smile. {They trust us better than that.}

Max rubbed the back of his head with a hint of doubt. "I don't know… You know how Scarlet gets, she's anxious to a fault."

{Well, that's not untrue….}

"...On your back again?" Max asked, standing up.

{Of course, unless you wish to walk back by yourself.} Luna jested, doing the same.

"I wouldn't even need to walk back," Max clarified. "Just a quick telepathic call to Scarlet and she'll teleport me back to the campsite."

{So why aren't you doing that, then?} Luna asked, placing a paw on her hip.

"First, you'd be all alone without any company since she can't teleport you very efficiently due to your typing. Secondly, I want to spend as much time with you as possible, now that you're here for the long haul."

Luna let out a chuckle as she was touched by Max's honesty. {Your last reason shouldn't surprise me, you're way too generous.}

"Is that bad~?"

{I didn't say that.} Luna retorted playfully.

With the two sharing a laugh, Luna turned around and lowered herself so Max could hop on her back. As soon as he had a good grip, Luna leaped towards a nearby tree and took the same path as before, but at a slightly slower pace. Ten minutes later, they had already arrived just outside the campsite's perimeter, where Luna stopped to put Max down.

"Thanks for the ride, Luna," Max said gratefully. "It was very fun."

{I'm happy you liked it.} The zoroark replied with a warm smile as the two approached the module, Luna stopping as it was within view.

"...How do you feel about the others? Nervous?" asked Max as he noticed her looking on ahead.

{Not exactly… I just don't know what to say or how to act. I can't really get there and act as if we're the best of friends.}

"No need to be buddy-buddy with everyone right away. Take your time and try to integrate yourself slowly," Max suggested while reaching to hold her claw. "Think of this as a way for everyone to learn about the 'new' you."

{...I suppose I could. *sigh* Look at me, I don't know how to make proper friends anymore.}

"What are you talking about?" Max asked, stopping near the electrical campfire surrounded by foldable chairs in front of the module. "We've always been your friends, and now's your chance to deepen those bonds."

{...I'll think about it, but… I appreciate your kind-heartedness. Maybe I need to be alone for a bit longer before committing to this.}

"That's fine Luna, do whatever makes comfortable," Max said before tapping her rear, the zoroark not minding the lewd gesture.

She then turned to pick a chair to sit on but was stopped by Max who grabbed her forearm.

"Not so fast. Now that we're much 'closer', kissing is mandatory from now on."

{Is that so?} Luna asked, paws on hips. {Who decided that?}

"Me."

For a few seconds, Luna stared at Max with a raised eyebrow before rolling her eyes, smiling.

{Very well then, if that's what my little tike wants…}

After complying, the zoroark leaned forward and the two shared a tender and soft goodnight kiss.

"I hope we get to do this again, Luna."

{Hihi. Behave like a good boy, and maybe we will have more fun with each other… Sooner than you think.} Luna said, briefly stroking Max's hair.

"I can't wait."

With the pair smiling at each other, Max left Luna outside and entered the module, where he spotted all the girls in the kitchen watching a comedy special that they all seem to enjoy.

{Welcome back, Max.} Aurora greeted, briefly looking at him.

"Hey everyone," Max replied as he walked next to the table, not taking a seat. He then took notice of Bonny, Sally, and May looking at him with smug grins on their faces. "What?"

{So, how did it go?} Sally asked eagerly.

{Where did you guys go?} May followed up.

{Did you two have fun together~?} The lopunny with a hint of seduction in her voice.

Max briefly sighed before pointing to Sally, May, and Bonny, giving them their respective answers. "It went pretty well, we traveled through the forest, and yes we did."

{Ha! Knew it.} Bonny said with a wider smile.

{Something special happened?} Aurora asked.

"Ehh, more or less, yeah." Max replied, trying to be discreet about it.

{Doesn't really explain a whole lot.} Dusk commented.

"I know. She didn't ask to keep it a secret, but let's say that Luna decided to… change her way of life a little bit."

{Her way of life?} Sally wondered, tilting her head.

{What do you mean?} Bonny asked.

"To be as clear as I can be, Luna's gonna leave her life as a wild pokémon behind, open her heart more, and learn to be better friends with us."

Everyone immediately looked at Max in shock, the TV even adding to the mood as the audience gave a surprised reaction to what was happening on-screen.

{Are… I-Is this for real?} The lopunny inquired, not believing him.

"Mmhmm. For real." Max confirmed.

{Yaay! Finally, some good news!} May exclaimed, getting all excited and bouncing in her seat. {She can play with us, now!}

{Heh… You finally cracked, huh Luna?} Aurora shared with a grin.

{That's wonderful!} Dusk said enthusiastically. {I was hoping this day would come.}

{That's awesome!} Sally added.

Max then gestured to the group to settle down before they start getting ideas. "Yes, yes. It's great that she's opening up to us, but please girls, act as if I didn't say anything and treat her like we always do. She's barely starting to allow herself to have feelings for me, so she needs a bit more time. Don't rush her."

{Aww! But I wanted to play with her.} May complained.

{He does have a point, May. It's best if we let her adjust at her own pace.} Aurora mentioned. {Remember how long it took me to fully embrace you guys?}

{Well, it's official; Everyone on this team has fallen under your charm.} Dusk mentioned.

{You got that right, master's just that much of a beast.} Bonny added.

"And all it took was one more incident," Max quipped.

Aurora crossed her arms as she was unamused by Max's comment. {Not sure that's something we should brag about.}

"Me neither, actually." Max conceded, a bit amused. "Where's Scarlet, by the way?"

{In the bedroom.} Sally answered.

"Already?"

{Weren't you two supposed to watch something together?} Aurora asked. {Something called a "telenovela"?}

Max smacked himself in the head as he remembered that promise. "Ah, I almost forgot. To be honest, I recommended that to her so she'd have something to watch. I didn't think she'd end up being that hooked to the series."

{Well, she did tell you that she liked it.} Bonny pointed out.

"I know, thanks for the reminder. See you girls later," Max wished his team before leaving, with half of the girls waving at him as he entered the bedroom.

{...Took you long enough.} Scarlet commented, who had been lying on the bed as Max closed the door behind him.

"Sorry, Love. Luna kinda-" Max started while starting to remove his shirt and pants before being cut by Scarlet.

{Kept you busy in more ways than one. Yeah, I already know. Nice to see that you finally break that shell of hers.}

"Yeah. It took nearly two years for her to crack, by the way."

{Yet, you never gave up on her, making it another win for you.}

"I guess so," Max conceded, now only in his underwear.

{Now come here. I have a little something to tell you.} Scarlet commanded with a finger motion.

"Heh, I don't know why, but I have the feeling that you won't use your mouth for words," Max jested before getting on the bed next to her.

{Tch, idiot.} Scarlet replied, gently slapping his shoulder. {Nice try, though.}

"In that case, I'm listening."

{You know, ever since you started your journey, we haven't had a proper chance to relax and unwind for more than a day, especially since we seem to attract trouble everywhere we go.} Scarlet explained, Max nervously rubbing his neck since it was all true. {So I was thinking the other day; Do you know what we desperately need?}

"What?"

Before answering, Scarlet teleported a pamphlet into the room and handed it to him.

{...A proper vacation.} She answered, with Max grabbing the pamphlet and curiously reading through it.

"A local pokémon tournament… That's your idea of a vacation? I mean, I don't mind it, but-"

{Not that, genius. Look at the prizes.} Scarlet said with playful sarcasm.

"Alright… Third place, ten thousand dollars. Second place, a special pokeball prize, a cherish ball, and first place…" Max's eyes nearly popped out of their sockets as he saw the last prize. No… fucking way! A ticket for any sized party to the Ullos National Amusement Park?!" he exclaimed.

{Isn't that great? I did some research with the tablet, and that place seems fun.}

Max's head snapped as he looked at Scarlet, which startled the gardevoir given his reaction. "'Fun'? 'Fun'?! You don't understand Scarlet, this is not just any amusement park, this is the amusement park. Oh my god! I've dreamed of going there my entire life! My parents never took me there since the tickets are so expensive."

{Well, now's your chance.} Scarlet said, very happy to see Max all excited.

"Yeah. And with the team I have, we've got this tournament in the bag! Ahh… Finally, after all these years, I'll get to go to Ullos…" Max went on with stars in his eyes.

{Hehe. I knew you would like it, but I was not expecting this.} Scarlet said, surprised by Max acting like a kid again.

"Since it's so amazing but expensive, it's almost every human kid's dream to go to Ullos park at least once. If we get there, you'll see why it's the best amusement park in the world."

{When we get there, master.} she corrected.

"R-Right, sorry. Poor choice of words."

Scarlet waved her hand dismissively. {It's okay. We'll say that's your excitement talking.}

"I wonder where the tournament will be at," Max wondered, reading the pamphlet some more. "MallowVille… Where the fuck is that?"

{Look it up.} Scarlet suggested, making the tablet appear on his groin.

Grabbing it, Max entered MallowVille and compared its destination to their present one, Max's excitement turning to disappointment.

"...Shit."

{What?}

"If we want to participate, then we'll have to change course. MallowVille is on the western side of the region, and the next gym leader is to the north."

{So? We'll just make a small detour on the way to the gym.}

Max scoffed. "Heh, yeah right. It's gonna take us at least three weeks to get to MallowVille at our current pace."

{Ooh, that is a problem…} Scarlet replied as she went into thought. {Maybe there's another gym leader who's closer to MallowVille than the first one.}

"...Good point. I didn't think of that. You need ten badges to participate in the regional championship, but there are gym leaders scattered across the region. Last I checked, you never had to obtain them in a certain order."

{There we go… We'll take part in the tournament, win it, challenge the gym leader afterward, have fun at Ullos, and then go from there.} Scarlet explained confidently, placing her hand on Max's shoulder.

"I guess so. I wonder when it will happen… Oh no. We've got another problem."

{What?}

"It will take us three weeks to get there, but the tournament is in ten days. We won't make it time."

Scarlet growled as Max pointed out their predicament. {Shit, that is a problem. Unless…}

"...We take a bus or a train to get there faster," Max said, guessing Scarlet's idea with the gardevoir not completely on board with it.

{*sigh* I won't enjoy being around a bunch of humans, but since it's our only option…}

"Maybe we can pick out a time where very few are traveling, like at night, or something like that," Max proposed.

{Hehe. Thanks for your consideration…} Scarlet said, caressing Max's closest cheek. {But anytime will do. I don't want you to wake up at two in the morning just for my sake.}

"You know-"

{Yes, I know, but don't, okay?}

"...*sigh* Alright, whatever you say," Max complied quickly, making Scarlet smile.

{Thank you. It won't be that bad since I can borrow Luna's ability and change into a green gardevoir.}

"Indeed. Now all the attention we're attracting is a male trainer with a gardevoir on some occasion."

{I can always fry their brain into thinking otherwise.}

"Hehe. Like those two hunters or poachers or whatever at Togetheart?"

Instantly, Scarlet crossed her arms and pouted.

{It was an accident.}

"Haha! I know, I'm just messing with you." Max reassured her, briefly nuzzling her before kissing her on the cheek. "But in all and all, you're right; We definitely need some real vacation. At Helene's, we didn't exactly relax back there."

{We didn't, indeed. It was hell.}

"I can't wait to see the faces of the girls when I tell them."

{This can wait until tomorrow. We have our series to watch at the moment.}

"Yeah, you're right." Max conceded, dropping the pamphlet to the closest nightstand. "We have a lot of episodes to catch up on."

{At least it's done, so we won't get anger issues due to cliffhangers.}

"Uh-huh. You like bringing that up don't you?"

{Anything to say I love you in the worst possible way.} Scarlet affirmed with a proud smug.

"Pff. You're lucky to have a pretty face, otherwise, there would be retaliation."

{Welp. You're powerless against my beauty.} Scarlet added before lying against him while hugging one of his arms.

"I'll find a way someday. Just watch." Max retorted while grabbing the remote to start their series."

{I hope you will.} Scarlet finished before they started their romantic evening.

~The next morning~

{YEEESSSS!}

Not long after waking up, Max waited until everyone else was up to announce their new destination. Upon hearing this news, everybody took it very well, to say the least.

{Oh yeah…! Hell yeah!} Bonny exclaimed. {Sign. Me. Up!}

{Me too! I've been wanting to go to an amusement park since forever!} May added.

{Best idea I've heard in a long time.} Aurora stated. {I can't remember when we last took a real break.}

{I'll tell you when; never.} Scarlet elaborated.

{I've never been in a human amusement park. Is it as fun as it sounds?} Sally pondered out loud.

"Trust me, Sally, you'd have to be a complete loser in life to not like this. There's so much to offer at that park that I'm one hundred percent positive that there's at least one thing you'll like."

{If there aren't any games that don't involve violence, then I'm not interested.} Scarlet said.

Max put a finger to his chin as he tried to appeal to Scarlet. "Well, I don't know about that, but I heard that there's a paintball field they added. Would that soothe your violent tastes?"

{…Not really, but I guess I'll go with what I got and try to adapt.} Scarlet replied with a fake disappointed tone.

{Thanks, master.} Dusk said. {We could really use this right now.}

"I think so too. This place has everything for both humans and Pokémon to enjoy."

{You weren't kidding when you said they have a lot to offer.} Luna pointed out, looking at the pamphlet. {I don't understand every word, but from what I can read, I wonder if we'll have time to try everything.}

"We'll see when we get there. Who knows, maybe that ticket will allow us to get in for more than one day."

{We still have to win the tourney, first.} Aurora mentioned. {No use making plans if we don't get first prize.}

{Come on Aurora, that's not how a champion should act.} Scarlet commented. {And here I thought you were our backbone.}

"Well… She's not wrong," Max intervened, defending his lucario before anyone else could speak. "But I have faith in you girls, all of you. We trained so hard and you've gotten incredibly strong. There's no doubt that a lot of strong trainers will be there too, but so long as we keep our heads in the game and we don't get upset, we'll win. 'Cus you girls are the best."

{He's right!} Bonny exclaimed, standing up. {We're the strongest team in the region and I won't let anyone stand between master and our prize. In fact, I'm gonna train right away.} She added before dashing outside.

{Me too!} Sally said, following her outside.

{Wait for me!} May exclaimed, doing the same.

"*sigh* They really got into it. I hope they won't overdo it."

{Let them be. It's their way to express their excitement.} Luna mentioned.

"Yeah. If I had less control, I could just follow them as well."

{What's preventing you from doing so?} Aurora asked with a tiny smile.

"How would physically training myself would help any of you win the battle? I'm just the coach while you guys are the real star players who do the actual battling. I think I'm just gonna start coming up with multiple strategies. We won a lot of gym matches, sure, but this will be our first time at a proper tournament. We'll probably have to face strong trainers who have probably trained their teams longer than us and use pokémon we've never faced before. Not to mention that the formats will be different as well… *sigh* We'll need to double down."

{And yet, I have trouble taking this as seriously as you do.} Scarlet said, dropping her elbows on the table. {I mean, just look at us. We're all solid fighters and we trained like crazy. Our victory is assured.}

"I want to think as you do, Scarlet, but never underestimate your opponents. We've been caught with our pants down way too often."

{...*sigh* True, but still.} The gardevoir admitted, though slightly disappointed.

"I'm also convinced that we'll get the first prize, but you gotta understand that dark horse dominance and underdog power are real things in tournaments. This means that if we don't try way harder than our opponents, chances are that we might just get upset," Max explained, looking over the pamphlet once more. "I mean, we could just buy a ticket without taking pa-"

{No way!} Scarlet refused categorically. {Now you just sound like a loser who wants to call it quits.}

Max was a bit hurt by that but didn't show it. "It was just a suggestion, Scarlet."

{Well, shove it down where the sun doesn't shine. We're gonna earn that ticket by fighting for it.} Scarlet proclaimed with a huff, Max looking at her suspiciously.

"Is it me, or does it sound like you want to take part in this tournament?"

{...I… W-Well, uh…} Scarlet hesitated, looking down as she leaned against the wall, crossing her arms. {… If we really want to win, then we'll have to hold nothing back, put all our cards on the table.} She explained as everyone stared at her. {I-It's not that I don't trust any of you to win, I… wanted to do something for our master.} Scarlet admitted shyly.

{...Hihi. It's understandable. Who wouldn't want to do something for him?} Luna approved, looking at Max with seductive eyes.

Scarlet pointed at the zoroark to say that she agreed with her. {Exactly, and it's been a while since I actually did something for him that mattered. I want to win it for you, master.}

Max then smiled as Scarlet looked at him with a shy but hopeful gaze. "Hehe, you're so cute, Scarlet. Sometimes, you're just able to make me love you even more."

{Oh, come on, now.} Scarlet replied, looking away while going red. {It's not-}

"Up up up. Remember what you need to work on."

{...Hnmm!} Scarlet groaned.

"Say it."

{...I'll… take the comp… compli… ment.} She said with difficulty.

"Good job. I'm proud of you."

{Don't push it, now.}

"Hehe, alright. Anyway, I'm glad that you want to participate, but I don't really know how it's gonna work. Most of the time, pokemon battles are three on three. But sometimes, in tournaments like this, the finales can be a six on six. If it does, there's one who won't participate, but everyone else will have to. Thankfully, if Scarlet proposed herself to fight, it only leaves that dilemma to you two." Max said, looking at Luna and Dusk. "If a six on six really happens, one of you will have to participate."

Both Dusk and Luna then looked at each other.

{We're not there yet, so we'll think about it in time. Things can still change until then.} Luna said.

"True. We'll see if a six on six even happens."

For a while, Max and his present companions talked about eventual strategies, talking about the best course of action in any given situation. At some point, Max noticed that Luna was having more and more trouble staying focused.

"You should go to sleep, Luna." Max suggested, noticing her drowsiness.

{I should, but we still have a couple of topics we haven't discussed yet.}

"It can wait. Your wellbeing first. Come on." Max said while standing up and presenting her one hand.

A bit unsure of what he had in mind, Luna took it and got pulled up by Max. She was then led to the bedroom, where Max closed the door behind him.

{Why did you bring me here?}

"It's your first day as a non-wild zoroark, so I figured that I needed to tuck you into a new place."

{New place? I'm... gonna sleep here?} Luna asked, slightly confused.

"Why yes. Like everyone else. Why? You think we haven't reached that step in our relationship yet?" Max joked.

Luna then looked at the bed.

{...I just didn't expect that.}

"You didn't expect to sleep in a bed?"

{Look, I'm trying here, but everything is so sudden and new and…} Luna retorted, losing her temper a little. {...I'm sorry.} She apologized a short moment later, realizing it. {I shouldn't have lost patience.}

"It's okay, Luna. We all have a period of adaptation to a new environment. Consider ourselves even for when I did the same to you a year ago."

{...Yeah. Let's go with that. Though…} Luna said while looking at the bed again. {I doubt I'll sleep well for the first few days.}

"Why?"

{I've never slept here, so instinctively, I'm not that reassured.}

"Ah, I see. But how's it different from when you sleep in the woods? You sleep well there, right?"

{Who said I was?}

Max then looked at Luna, a bit confused.

{As far I can remember, I always slept with an open eye.}

"What? Wait, are you saying you never slept well in your entire life?"

{I did, but the last time was… before everything happened.}

"Oh. Well, shit." Max commented, rubbing the back of his head. "...How about I stay until you fall asleep, then?"

{I'll manage somehow, so it won't be necessary.}

"I insist. You know I can't just turn my back on any of you if I can help in some way."

{...}

"I don't mind. Really."

{...*sigh* Okay.} Luna complied, a bit despite herself.

"Don't make that face. I thought you would like that idea of us snuggling." Max said with a tiny grin.

{Well, it goes further than that, but… I admit that presented like this, it doesn't sound so bad after all.}

"I knew it would work. It does for everyone." Max added before getting on the bed and motioning at Luna to join him.

Delicately, Luna got on the bed also and laid next to Max, where the human went for a warm hug.

"So?" Max engaged after a short moment. "How does it feel to be treated as a princess for once?"

{It's… a bit weird. I'm usually the one that gets leaned on, not the contrary. I feel… out of place.}

"Just give it time, Luna." Max reassured her, petting her.

Suddenly, Luna let out a loud and emotion-filled sigh.

{...If someone would have told me that I would end up like this ever again before meeting you…}

"You would have called them crazy?"

{No. I'm not that mean. I would have said that it's very unlikely.}

"Hehe. Good thing. Not only do you have the mean look, but if you have the mean attitude as well…"

{...Do I really look that evil?} Luna asked, a bit anxious.

"Of course not. I'm just messing with you. You're a bad girl. In the sense that you look tough and mean, but are a real softy on the inside."

{I see. Sorry, I don't always get jokes and sarcasm.}

"It's okay. If you stick with us more and more, you'll learn to differentiate between them."

{That would be nice.} Luna said before closing her eyes.

To Max's surprise, the zoroark fell asleep rather quickly, hearing snoring lightly after a few minutes.

"Sweet dreams," Max whispered before kissing the top of her head.

With slight difficulty, Max moved away from Luna, who was now lying on her belly and a bit curled up.

{...Don't… go too far away, please.} Luna asked as Max was heading towards the bedroom's door, sounding half asleep.

"Sure thing. We'll try to not be noisy while inside as well."

{Thank you.}

"You're welcome, and Luna?" he called out to her, grabbing the zoroark's attention. "I love you."

Luna let out a soft gasp as a warm feeling began to arise within her, causing a blush to form on her face. Despite saying that she would commit to their relationship, those three words made her tense up and get stuck with her words. She thought it was a bit too soon for her to say them back to him, but she also didn't want to make him sad or offended by not saying it. Luna battled with herself for a moment and right when Max was about to leave, she reached out to him and asked him to wait a bit. He looked back at the slightly flustered zoroark with her claws shaking against the bed.

{I… I-I…} she stuttered before taking a deep breath and looking at Max with a nervous and somewhat vulnerable expression. {I love you too…}

Max could do nothing but smile as he left the room and joined the others at the table, but not before taking a minute to reflect on what just happened.

"*sigh* So, where were we?" Max asked after sitting down.