Questionable Vibes

{Come on, master. We're almost there.} May called out.

"Alright, geez. It's obvious that you're not the one carrying a 190 lbs carcass." Max muttered.

Roughly a week after the metagross incident, Max, Scarlet, and May were still on their way to Lamellion. However, the three of them were climbing a rather steep cliff. Well, two of them at least. Scarlet was just floating above it, not bothering herself with the climbing.

{Why are you complaining? This was your idea.} The red gardevoir pointed out, levitating behind him.

"Yeah, but I guess I forgot to specify that I'd like to go at my own pace."

{Why don't you want me to help you?}

"Because I can't always rely on you. I'm not crippled, you know. I can do things on my own too."

{*Sigh* That's your choice, knucklehead.}

"I just don't want to end up like a deformed bag of meat below."

{I'm guessing you don't want my help with that either?} She nagged, making Max glaring at her. {Chill out, I'm just kidding.} She said calmly, floating in a very relaxed position. {Remind me of why you wanted to do this again?}

"Because this path happens to be a shortcut and it could save us maybe a day of walking."

{And you thought it's worth risking deadly injuries? Oh, silly me, you won't as long as I'm here to catch you.}

"Aj long aj gehre to gna gna. Look at me, I'm Scarlet and I like to act like a jackass." Max mocked her.

{Not a bad impression. But mine is better. Look, I'm Scarlet and I can make my little human scared for his life by pulling him down this very cliff.}

"How about fuck you? I'm trying to focus here."

{Oh, sorry. I should have known that talking and moving hands at the same time was too much for your little human brain.} She nagged with a grin.

"Thank you for your consideration."

Above him, May was jumping from rock to rock, getting closer to the top. To her, it was almost like a game.

{Anyway, with the time you take, I wonder if it's actually gonna be a shortcut.}

"Well, sorry if I can't fly like certain others. We're not all as lucky as you."

{Pfff.}

Max spent a couple more minutes climbing until May called him out again.

{You're almost there, master. I guarantee you that you'll like the view.} She said from the summit.

"Coming."

A moment later, Max put a hand next to May and pulled himself up.

{Good job.} Scarlet said, landing to his side while he was getting to his feet.

"Thanks for your support." He replied sarcastically while dusting off his hands.

He then saw a vast plain with what seemed to be a huge city far in the distance, surrounded by very few trees. From there, he could see tall construction rejecting thick black smoke with tiny dots all around.

"Yes! We reached the promised land!" Max said, a bit too enthusiastically.

{Geez. Are you that eager to breathe in toxic waste?} Scarlet inquired.

"Yes, I am. Besides, this city is supposed to be inhabited by Galarian weezing, who are supposed to be transforming polluted air into oxygen. We should be alright."

{We can be there in a few hours, but I can get us there faster.}

"Nah, I'm good." Max declined, grabbing May to put her on his backpack. "I'm still up for more walking." He added before starting to head towards the city.

Shrugging her shoulders, Scarlet followed and got next to him. They arrived in the vicinity of Lamellion, outside the walls that were surrounding it and where they were greeted by a couple weezing, floating around.

[Oh my god. They are even funnier up close.] Max thought with a grin.

[They look absolutely ridiculous.]

[Now that's just mean.]

[Whatever. You should head in before you get molested.]

"What about you?"

[I'll stay outside like usual and come back when the time is right.]

"What about your ability, then?"

[My ability? Oh, right. The one that makes me able to 'steal' someone else's.]

{Huh?} May said, a bit lost.

{Oh, sorry.} Scarlet apologized.

"I can call Luna out so you can copy hers and change into a normal gardevoir so you don't attract much attention."

{Normal?} The gardevoir replied, looking suspiciously at him. {Are you implying that I'm not?}

"No, I…"

{That was mean, master.} May scolded before both she and Scarlet discreetly grinned at each other.

"I mean you can change into a normal-colored gardevoir."

{*sigh* I guess. Not that I really want to look like one of those, but I don't really have much of a choice here.}

"Just think about how you will be with me all day long."

{That's exactly my only drive to do so.}

"Whatever floats your boat," Max said before releasing Luna. "Hi, Luna."

{Hi, little pup. What can I do for you?}

"Could you let Scarlet copy your ability so she can change into something a little more discreet?"

{Sure thing. Anything for you.} She said more seductively than necessary while handing one paw to Scarlet.

The gardevoir then grabbed her wrist and focused for a short moment.

"Did it work?" Max asked as soon as Scarlet released Luna's wrist.

Instead of answering, she focused one more time and changed into a regular green gardevoir.

{Does this answer your question?} She replied, looking at him.

"Quite, yes," Max said while she was briefly inspecting her body.

{Herr. I look gross.}

"Don't be such a drama queen. You're just as cute as before but in a different color."

{How can you tell if you humans can't tell our species apart and all look the same to you?}

"That, Scarlet, is one of many mysteries of life."

{More like you just can't answer.}

"You're choice. Anyway, since you're out now, would you like to accompany us?" Max asked Luna.

{Of course. It would please me.} The zoroark replied with a warm smile, pulling him into a hug.

"Great. Let's go, then." Max announced, breaking the hug after briefly returning it.

With Luna, now in her human appearance, and Scarlet on the opposite side of him, they headed towards the city entrance.

[Is it me, or has Luna gotten awfully clingy since they've mated?] Scarlet asked May.

[Hard to not notice. Not a bad thing if you ask me, though. Both seem happier about it and Luna spends more time with us. She may not be the most social, but at least she's there.]

[I guess.]

When they passed the gate and got in, it was quite the change of scenery compared to what they were used to. The buildings were really compact to each other with only streets filled with cars and pedestrians between them.

"Damn!" Max exclaimed. "This city sure is busy."

{I agree. I haven't seen many cities like this.} Luna commented.

"But it's quite hard to breathe here, and I'm not talking about the air," Max said after dodging a couple of humans and a few pokemon walking around.

{I don't know if I can do this.} Scarlet said, sticking herself to Max. {I already got stained by too many humans touching me now.}

"Just bear with it for a moment. We'll go where it's less crowded. At least you don't seem to attract as much attention as before."

{I doubt people here would even mind at all.} Luna stated. {They seem so busy that no one has noticed that you're looking like you're talking to yourself while speaking with us.}

"It's not that unusual for a trainer to speak to his pokemon. Anyway, let's get moving. As always, let's go check where we can spend the night." Max instructed, moving away from the crowded place.

Fortunately, it seemed that they were just in a very busy zone and managed to get into a space that was calmer. Again, every bit of space was used for whatever reasons like a shop, an office building, a house, or even a construction site.

{How are we gonna find anything here? All the buildings look the same and have very few indications.} Scarlet questioned.

"First time in a city?" Max said, wanting to mess with her a little.

{Ha ha. Very clever.} She replied ironically.

"We'll just wander around and try our luck like always."

{Not wanting to argue, but in a place like this, it could take a while.} Luna pointed out.

{She's right, master. As far as I can tell, we could be walking towards a place that doesn't even have a hotel.} May said.

{That is, if this city has one.} Scarlet mentioned.

"It seems to be a workforce kind of city, so surely they must have something."

{What makes you say that?} Scarlet asked.

"Companies sometimes send workers to other places or overseas on some occasions for their job, and since they are far from their home…"

{Alright, I get it.}

"But May does have a point. It could take forever if we look in the wrong direction."

{So what's the plan?} The gardevoir asked.

"Hmm…" Max hummed, looking around. "Asking other people I guess."

{Do you think they will take the time to answer you?}

"They are not animals, Scarlet, and it's worth a try. It's either that or you search their minds."

{*sigh* Alright, go have fun with them then.}

"Thanks. Wait here." He said before starting to ask people around.

{You seem a bit irritable today.} Luna said to Scarlet.

{I'm not. It's just… this appearance and those humans… It's already getting on my nerves.}

{I know you love him, but what's preventing you from going away?}

{It wouldn't be fair that master is always the one that makes some compromises or sacrifices. I can do my part from time to time too.}

{How very noble of you.}

{Was that sarcasm?}

{Of course not. I always find the sense of self-giving very respectable. If it reassures you, you're still very pretty, even in that appearance.}

{Oh, shut up.}

{Come on, now. Besides the color, you're still exactly the same. But if you really don't like green, why not change into a shiny, then?}

{I… that's actually not a bad idea, to be honest, but I'll still attract too much attention.}

{Fair point. Shinies are still rare and quite exotic amongst humans.}

"...Okay, it took me a couple of tries since almost no one wanted to talk to me, but I finally managed to get an answer," Max said after getting back.

{We saw. You did it like a pro.} Scarlet ragged.

"It was a good decision since we weren't going in the right direction. To get to the closest hotel, we have to walk back and take another turn."

{After you then.} Scarlet said.

With the girls following Max, they turned around and headed towards the instructed direction. Unsurprisingly, it took them a little while due to the city's size to get on the street they were looking for.

"Ah. St-Day-Lewis. The street where the hotel should be."

{Any ways to recognize the building?} Scarlet asked.

"He told me that it was in front of a jewelry store."

{And I suppose you don't know where that jewelry store is?}

"Of course I do."

{Oh really?}

"Yeah. It's right in front of the hotel we're looking for."

Scarlet then looked at Max suspiciously.

{Why do I have this urge to spank you right now all of a sudden?} She pondered out loud.

"Because I'm too much for you to handle."

{Yeah. Let's go with that, for your safety and well-being.}

"Why, thank you, then." Max retorted with an arrogant smile.

Then, as they were proceeding through the street, they passed in front of a weird-looking stand that they didn't pay much attention to.

"You!" The weird old man in it called out when he saw Max.

"Me?" Max said, pointing at himself after stopping.

"Yes. You. I sense a dark path ahead of you. Be careful, as the challenge might be too difficult to overcome. You better prepare yourself, young man."

"Hem… yeah. Thanks. I gotta go then. Bye."

"You shouldn't take it lightly, no one can avoid their destiny, but you can always…" They heard as they were walking away.

{What's wrong with him?} May asked.

{Everything. He's a human, after all.} Scarlet replied.

"No, it's more than that. He was just plain crazy. Those kinds of weirdos are always rambling about catastrophes or world-ending events. I guess every city has their loose cannons."

They kept walking by the streets for quite a while until they saw the hotel they were searching for, which was indeed in front of a jewelry store.

"*Whistle* That's a big building," Max commented upon seeing the impressive building.

The hotel was quite huge and pretty fancy-looking with a neon sign above the entrance doorway.

"The Zoroark's Nest?" He read. "I didn't know you ran a hotel business." Max teased Luna.

{Oh, you know. It's just to survive until the end of the month.} Luna replied, playing along.

{Welcome to 'The Zoroark's Nest' hotel, the best theme-based hotel in the region.} Scarlet read on another sign next to the doors.

"Theme-based?" Max repeated.

{What's that, master?} May asked.

"I'm not sure, but I believe it's a hotel that has various themes set up for fantasy nights. Ah, I get the zoroark reference now. Illusion."

{What kind of themes?} Scarlet asked.

"I don't know. It could be anything."

{Why don't we go see for ourselves then?} Luna proposed.

"Sure thing. We don't have much of a choice as it was the closest one anyway." He pointed before heading inside.

The entrance hall was pretty huge with a big reception desk in front of them and two hallways on each side of it, elevators on their left, and what seems to be a modest restaurant to their right with a small waiting area nearby. There were two female receptionists, and since one was already dealing with a customer, Max went for the other.

"Good evening. What can I do for you?" She asked with a big smile.

"Yes, hem… I've never been in a hotel like this one, so I was wondering what it was all about," Max questioned.

"I'll be glad to answer. You are at The Zoroark's Nest, a hotel that offers rooms with themes. We also have regular rooms for a more modest price, but we highly recommend you to try the themed rooms."

"What kind of themes are we talking about?"

"Here's a catalog to choose from. If it's your first time, surely you're not aware of our new stuff, or our old ones for that matter." She said before handing him the catalog.

"Alright. Let's see…"

Turning the page Max got impressed by the variety of choices. He saw medieval themes, funky themes, western themes, space themes… he even got into a section where it was dedicated to pokemon types, representing their type-related habitat.

"Damn! These are very cool."

{I'm a bit disappointed by the psychic-type room. I was expecting something to be a bit more… like me, I guess.}

"Remember those are just themes for human rooms. They still have to keep it comfy and practical. Like, I hardly see them putting a real volcano inside the fire-type room."

{That could be fun, though.}

"Hm…" He hummed, still paging the catalog.

{Wait!} Scarlet stopped. {Go back.} She asked, making Max turn back the previous. {Wow. This one looks awesome.}

"The war zone? Hmm, yeah, it's nice I guess since it looks more like a medieval fantasy battlefield. Modern war zones are no fun."

{But look at the swords and axes and blood everywhere.}

"I feel you. I would have agreed, but I get the feeling that not a lot of us will like it."

{Hm.} She pouted, crossing her arms.

"...Oh. How about this one?" Max asked, pointing at a post-apocalyptic theme.

{Hmm… I guess.} She replied, not convinced.

"It's kinky while staying sober and nuclear destruction must interest you."

Even before her answer, Max felt a little sensation of excitement from her at the word destruction.

"What about you?" Max asked the other two.

{Fine by me. Anywhere with you is romantic enough.} Luna assured him.

{Works for me too. Personally, the theme thing won't matter much for what we do there.} May pointed out.

{I like how you think.} Scarlet said. {Your right. As soon as the lights are out, all we will be seeing is our master's face when he's cumming anyway.} She added with lewd eyes and a very discreet ass grab.

(No romanticism at all.) Max complained in his head, which made Scarlet grin in victory. "This one is interesting. How much for a night?"

"Our themed rooms are obviously more expensive than a regular and this one is about $750 a night."

"S-Seven hund-... Nevermind. It's a bit too expensive."

"Oh, I'm sorry to hear that. If you ever get the funds, you'll always be welcome." She assured him with a warm smile.

"Thanks." He said before immediately leaving.

A bit confused, the girls looked at each other before Scarlet quickly caught up to him.

{Wait! What are you doing?}

"I'm leaving to go look somewhere else, why?"

{But… you really seemed to want to try one of those rooms.}

"I do, but that's way too expensive. I even doubt that I have that amount on me."

Max then sighed, rubbing his head in disappointment. Scarlet looked at him but hated to see him in that state.

{...What if… we did have the money?}

"That would be great, of course, but we don't. It's no biggie, Scarlet. We'll try another day."

{I… could get us what we need.}

"How? Wait… No no no. We already talked about this a couple of times now and the answer is still the same; no stealing."

{Why?}

"Because it's not right."

{So?}

"What do you mean 'so'?"

{*sigh* Master, I think you forgot, so I'll remind you. I'm a psychic pokemon and I probably know you better than you know yourself. I know for a fact that you're not the type of human to blindly follow laws. I know that deep down, you don't mind it that much. So, what will it be, master?}

"I…"

Max wasn't sure if she was right or not. Was he really that much against some bad deeds? Deep down, he knew that she wasn't half wrong. He always pictured himself as a nice guy, but not necessarily a 'good' guy.

"It's just that if someone were to somehow steal my hard-earned money, I would be pissed to hell. How fair will it be that others should endure that but not me? Plus, I'm not sure that I want to become that type of person."

{I think that not all humans deserve what they have, even you will agree with me on that one.}

"Indeed, but…"

{Regardless, you won't have to become anything since I'll be the one that does the deeds.}

"Still…"

Seeing that he was really reticent about that to his human side, she grew impatient and wanted to accelerate things up.

{*sigh* If I go scan some humans' brains and find someone that is the worst asshole ever, will you agree?}

"You… what? You hate doing that, even with those you appreciate."

{Look, I know that you really want to try that hotel and it would make you happy, so if it means putting a smile on that stupid and stubborn face of yours, then I'll do it.} She said, oddly sounding a bit embarrassed at the end.

"I…"

Max was flabbergasted. Never would he ever imagine her proposing that to him. He couldn't do anything else but admire her over-the-top devotion.

"...Why though? Does it mean that much to you?"

{Yes.} She replied without hesitation. {Isn't taking on this hideous appearance proof enough?}

"That's not it. I…" Max expressed, rubbing his neck.

{I won't force you if you really are against it, but I highly encourage you to be a little bit more honest with yourself.}

Sighing, Max heavily considered her suggestion. The worst wasn't that she proposed that or even considered it, but the fact that she was right and that it was making him question himself a bit.

"...I'm… trusting your judgment on this one, then." He said, a bit ashamed.

Scarlet then smiled.

{You can always trust me. I'll be back in a moment.}

After she teleported away, Max walked back to the receptionist desk, where the others were wondering what was going on.

"Is there a problem?" The receptionist asked.

"No, not really. My pokemon is gonna get what we need from a friend." He lied.

The receptionist then looked at him for a short moment.

"Okay. Well, feel free to wait over there." She said with a smile, pointing at the waiting zone.

"Thanks."

A bit uncomfortably, Max headed towards it with Luna and May.

{What did you talk about with Scarlet?} May asked, jumping on the chair next to Max.

"Something I'm not really comfortable talking about right now. Maybe later."

{...Okay.} May replied, worried but not insisting.

A moment later, Scarlet reappeared in front of him.

"That was quick," Max commented, standing up.

{I got lucky. The second one I checked was quite rich but rotten to the core.}

"Let me guess; because he was human?"

{I didn't think about it, but now that you say it…}

"Of course." Max cut, rolling his eyes. "So? How much has our little misdeed gathered for us?"

{See for yourself.} Scarlet answered, showing him a little pile of cash. {And there is even a little bit more for something extra.} She added while Max grabbed it.

Rolling the bills, Max was quite impressed by the amount.

"I hope you didn't steal too much from him."

{Who cares if he was a lowlife scumbag? But no, I didn't. I tried to go with your values as much as possible.}

"Thanks, Scarlet. I really appreciate it."

{I didn't say it was easy though. If only you knew what he had done.}

"I prefer not knowing."

{Good call.}

"Well, let's go rent our post-apocalyptic room then. After all, I just sold my soul for that."

{Now who's being a drama queen?} The red gardevoir nagged playfully.

Both a bit confused, Luna and May followed Max and Scarlet to the counter. As soon as he paid with the newly 'acquired' money, they all headed towards their designated room. Unknowingly to himself, Max had a ravished feeling, which was warming up Scarlet's heart. At first glance, everything looked ordinary, but behind the doors was where the magic happens. Soon enough, they got to their room and entered.

"Holy post-apocalyptic damn!" Max exclaimed upon seeing the room.

Excluding the quality of life comforts like the mattresses or the couch pillow, everything looked ravaged by some kind of nuclear attack, from the table to the tv and what appeared to be a fortune building up.

"That's what I called a themed experience."

{I admit that it's pretty convincing.} Scarlet commented, looking around. {Which makes me like it even more.}

{Human engineering and creativity never cease to surprise me.} Luna followed.

"Indeed."

{I don't know. Looks a bit sad to me.} May said.

"Don't take it too seriously. To me, it's just like a video game setting. Just see it as an illusion, then." Max reassured, dropping his backpack.

{Hm. Alright.}

{Remember that the decorations don't matter at night.} Scarlet reminded her.

{Ahah. True.}

"Aahhh!" Max moaned as if he was orgasming after dropping on the bed. "The sweet, sweet release of not standing anymore."

{Don't stay there for too long or you won't be able to get up.} Scarlet pointed out, sitting next to him.

"Don't worry. I just need a couple of minutes."

{Why don't you release the others while doing so?}

"I was getting to that," Max said, going over his pokeball belt.

One by one, he released them.

"Hello, prettiest girls in the world." Max greeted, laying on his elbows.

{Geez, can we at least know where we are before you try to bed us?} Aurora said, looking around.

"We arrived at Lamellion and are currently in a themed hotel."

{That's… peculiar.} Dusk commented, a bit intimidated by the decor.

"I'm sorry if you don't like it, Dusk, but it's the best I could do to please everyone."

{Don't fret it.} Scarlet intervened. {With how different we all are, it's almost impossible to choose something that everyone likes.}

"I don't know. The restaurant I choose pleases everyone most of the time."

{Hm. True, I guess.}

{And don't forget about master himself.} May pointed out.

{Also true.}

"And what about-"

{Okay. I get it.} Scarlet calmly interrupted, making Max grin.

{So what do we do then?} Aurora asked.

"Well…"

While thinking, Max's glance landed upon Bonny, who was incredibly silent lately. Despite the lopunny's refusal and arguments, the group all came to an agreement earlier to let her and Max spend more time together, even if it meant relinquishing their own special moments. Knowing that she really needed it, they agreed rather quickly, but Bonny was still very uncomfortable about it. However, she couldn't deny that she really liked spending more quality time with him.

"What we usually do, I guess. Walking and snooping around."

{Not that I don't like adventuring, but this time, I think I would prefer being much more organized.} Scarlet announced.

"More organized?"

{Getting information about what we can do here and going there right away.}

"I guess we could do that."

{It's just that most of the time, we just wander around doing nothing.}

"I got you. Well, looks like we're gonna have to do some intel gathering."

{Can't your pokedex help us with that?} Aurora said.

"Not that much. I mean, it shows some general information and the most popular attractions, but nothing else. We could pass up on some interesting things if I rely solely on that."

{Alright, how do we get information then?}

"The receptionist should be able to help us with that," Max said, not even moving.

{...Which means now or…}

"Now I suppose, but I'm so comfortable."

{I told you.} Scarlet remarked.

"It's not that I'm unable to do it, it's a choice."

{A choice? How about I choose to put a freezing hand on your dick?} She threatened while using an Ice Punch, making her hand extremely cold and foggy.

"Okay, okay." He said when he felt the cold getting closer to his belly.

Sighing, he then sat up.

{You'll have all night to enjoy the bed.} Aurora stated.

{That, if we don't use it too much.} Scarlet replied seductively, hugging one arm.

{Hehe, I pity the one that has to change the sheets.} Luna giggled.

{We're just gonna make them work for their salary.} Scarlet said.

"If I was a room maid, I would hate you all so much right now."

{Lucky for us that you're not, then.}

"Well. Let's hit the streets." Max said while standing up.

Exiting the room, the group headed towards the reception.

"Oh, hi again. Does the room suit your taste?" The same woman as earlier behind the counter asked.

"Yes. The room is great, but I was wondering what my pokemon and I could do around here."

"I figured you would ask that." The woman said, stretching an arm to get something.

"How so?"

"You're not from here, that much is obvious. It's almost always the first thing all tourists ask when they arrive here." She added, giving him a touristic guide.

"It's understandable. It's not very evident to see what a heavily industrialized city like this one can offer." Max replied, taking it.

"Indeed."

"Well, thank you."

"Your welcome. Have a nice day."

"Thanks."

{Before going, shouldn't we ask for something about the you-know-what?} Scarlet said.

"Hem, not sure I follow."

[May's mega stone.] She said in his mind.

"Ah, true. Thanks for reminding me. However…" Max replied, looking at Bonny.

{What?} The lopunny asked, not understanding.

"I don't know if I should say it here. I mean, you're still a bit…"

For a short moment, Bonny was rather confused, but quickly suspected what he meant.

{*Sigh* Come on, master. I'm not a baby. You don't have to spare me, so speak up.} She demanded with crossed arms.

"I know, but you already don't feel so well about it, so…"

Bonny then glared at him, unamused.

"Okay. Scarlet and I guessed that maybe a city like this one could help us with refining May's mega stone."

Even though she asked for it and wasn't showing it, Scarlet felt a little sting in Bonny's heart. A little bit less than she expected though.

{That's it? So much for the tease.} She told him.

"Yeah," Max replied, a bit uncomfortable.

"You seem to understand your pokemon perfectly." The receptionist pointed out.

"I do. Their pokemon speech is basically like a second language to me. Anyway, I was wondering if you know about a place around here that can refine a mega stone?"

"Refining a mega stone? Hm…"

Max had got her thinking for a moment.

"There used to be a few small enterprises doing so here, but with the decline of pokemon training, they converted their businesses into something else."

"I see. Fewer trainers mean less mega stone demands."

"Exactly."

"We're not in luck then."

"Actually, maybe you are."

"How so?"

"Those companies didn't change their businesses not too long ago. I'm sure you could find some retired folk who can still do that."

"That would be awesome. Where can we find one?"

"I'm sorry, but I don't personally know someone as such, so I can't really tell."

{That's great. All we have to do is to go knock on every door of this city.} Scarlet commented arrogantly.

"No lead then," Max added.

"However, I guess you could ask one of the enterprises that did it before. Surely they keep a list of their previous and present workers in their database."

"That's a good idea. Any idea of where to look?"

"The most popular is the OakFeet company, a furniture store."

"Going from refining mega stones to selling furniture? That's quite the switch."

"Indeed, but everyone has to adapt to modern times."

"True."

"Here's the address." The receptionist said before writing down on a paper and giving it to Max. "Good luck."

"Thanks," Max replied before heading outside.

{I believe that you want to go drop it off first.} Scarlet guessed.

"Yeah. I don't know how much time refining takes, so the sooner we drop it off, the sooner we have it."

{Where do we go?} Aurora questioned.

"To Pennywise Street. According to my pokedex map, it isn't very far from here. Maybe fifty minutes of walking."

{And you call that not very far?}

"In a city like this one, it's relatively close by. We could always take a bus or a taxi, but I don't really feel like it."

{I wish I could suggest teleporting us there, but…} Scarlet mentioned.

"I figured as much since it's a place you never saw before. Wouldn't teleporting all of us be quite tiresome for you by the way?"

{The mass and volume of all of us don't quite outweigh that of a steelix, which I already did teleport over a long distance, remember?}

"I'd rather not. Walking it is then."

At that, the group then left in the direction of OakFeet. With Luna in her human form, the group was less noticeable as they were looking like two trainers with a few of their pokemon out. They arrived a little over an hour and a half without a hitch. They proceeded inside and went over to a vendor to ask to see the one in charge and was sent to his office.

"You wanted to see me?" The man behind a desk said.

"Yes. I heard that this place was a mega stone refiner in its early days."

"It was, but that was a couple of decades ago."

"I know, but I'm in need of someone who can help me with this," Max announced before showing him the raw mawilite.

"...Okay." The man said, not sure of what he wanted.

"Do you perhaps know where I could find someone who can help?"

"I can check. Since then, the management has changed." The man stated while typing on his computer. "But you could be in luck."

After a moment of waiting, the man found something.

"Ah. I have a list of those who accepted a carrier redirection."

"Accepted?" Max repeated.

"Some didn't accept the change of enterprise that happened here, so they left. However, most accepted to convert themselves into furniture management to keep working."

"I see."

"Here's the one that was considered the best refiner. He's now retired, but I'm sure he wouldn't mind helping you." The man said before writing on a piece of paper and gave it to Max.

"Alright. I'll go check this out. Thanks." Max said before leaving.

{Not wanting to put pressure, but this is starting to get annoying.} Scarlet commented.

"Be patient. It will be our last stop and then we'll do whatever we want."

{Where is it?} She asked, making Max take out his pokedex.

"Ah shit. It's on the other side of the city."

{No way I'm walking that distance.} Aurora mentioned.

{Me neither.} Bonny followed. {These paws aren't made to walk on hard surfaces indefinitely.}

"I know…" Max said, looking around.

His gaze then landed on a metro entrance.

"How about we use the fastest way to get there?" He suggested.

{That would be great.}

"Follow me, then," Max instructed, leading them to the metro station.

{It looks and smells weird here.} Aurora commented after getting underground.

"I admit that for a city like this, I was somehow expecting something cleaner. Don't know, though."

{What are we doing here exactly anyway?} Bonny asked.

"Taking the metro. With that, we're gonna cross the city in no time."

{Where is it?} Dusk asked.

"There should be one coming soon. I believe one passes every ten or fifteen minutes."

{Mind if I get back in my pokeball? It's getting quite boring.} Bonny commented.

{I think I will too.} Aurora approved.

"Sure thing." Max agreed, recalling them to their pokeballs. "Anyone else?"

{I'm fine here.} May commented on Max's backpack.

"Let's wait, then." He said, lying his back against a nearby wall. "I hope it doesn't cost too much to refine a mega stone."

{Money isn't much of a problem right now with what I got us.} Scarlet said, lying next to him.

"I don't know. It probably costs a fortune."

{I doubt it. Otherwise, not many would have ever obtained a mega evolved pokemon.} Luna stated.

"I can't say I've seen a lot of them in my life, though."

{Well, it does require an exceptional trainer to mega evolve a pokemon, so it could be because of that.} Scarlet pointed out.

"Perhaps."

They then waited roughly seven minutes before a train could be heard. Getting near the rail path, the vehicle appeared from the tunnel.

"Oh. They finally made it." Max expressed upon seeing the impressive machinery.

{What do you mean?} Scarlet asked as the metro was slowing down.

"A couple of years ago, I heard about a train project that was designed to travel at extreme speeds. I didn't know they actually did it."

{Extreme speeds?} May repeated.

"I don't remember the details, but I think it was about electromagnetism that was reducing friction, allowing it to go faster. Something like that."

{It's human-made, so it's surely something very simple.} Scarlet commented haughtily.

"Don't underestimate us, humans. We're all not that stupid. After all, we designed things like pokeball and such."

{And yet, they still don't realize that they aren't the center of the universe.}

"Whatever helps you sleep at night, Love." Max conceded before entering the now accessible transport.

With his companions following, they sat on nearby seats. The inside was rather fancy for a metro. Not as fancy as a filthy rich vehicle, but like a first-class train.

{It's cozier than I remember.} Luna remarked.

"You've been in a metro before?"

{Only once. I don't remember the circumstances, however, as it was a long time ago.}

"I see."

{But I'm sure I'll remember this one for a very long time.} She said with a touch of seduction.

"Is that so?" Max replied, clumsily returning the grin.

Even though the sexual tension was broken between both of them, things tend to be awkward on rare occasions, mainly because of Max, who still had a bit of trouble on how to handle her.

After a moment, the door closed and the train departed. Just like he expected, no motion was felt besides the tiny tug at the start. Beside them, the wagon was empty besides a few old people at the end and a male trainer with two lopunnies next to him.

{Why don't you want me to sit on you?} One of them complained to his trainer.

"Not here, Molly. That would be very inappropriate." The trainer justified.

{But, I want to be so close to you. I want both of us to feel each other.}

Turning his head, Max saw the trainer with his two lopunnies on each side of him, with one being awfully clingy to the human. The other one, however, looked more discouraged than anything.

{I'm sorry about that.} The second lopunny apologized upon noticing Max.

"No problem," Max replied softly. "I have a lopunny too, so I know how affectionate they can be.

{My sister is quite special, though. She hardly knows what personal space or inhibition means.}

"You two are related?"

{Yeah. We are not completely identical twins since we have different genders. She's the girl that does stupid stuff and I'm the guy that fixes things for her.}

"Wow. You must have it hard."

{It's not that bad. Our master doesn't mind having two lopunnies since he has other pokemon to keep her under control. It gets pretty hard though when you have a crazy nymphomaniacal pokemon like my sister.}

"Does she…"

{No, and I doubt it will ever happen. Actually, no. Scratch that. Master isn't that much into pokemon, but I can feel his resistance weakening lately. At this rate, she might just manage to convert him.}

"I see."

{Please master. Just a little kiss. No one will notice.} The female lopunny coaxed lowly, unaware that she could be heard.

{Alright, Molly, that's enough.} The male intervened.

{What? Don't be jealous of our love.} She protested.

{Can't you see you're just making a fool of yourself?}

{Who cares?}

Max then let them be and faced the door in front of him with a chuckle. Then, he began to think about his own lopunny. About how she has been feeling down lately, remembering the metagross incident.

[I too hope she will get better.] Scarlet said.

(She always has been one of the most positive of the group. It pains me to see her like that.) Max mentioned.

[I know, and she still is. She just has to get past those difficult memories.]

(If only I could do more for her.)

[You're already doing the best you can. But I admit there is always room for improvement.]

(Yeah. We should all do something for her.)

[Like what?]

(I don't know. Something that could help boost her morale.)

[Maybe we can check for something as soon as we leave the city.]

(That could work.)

After a couple of minutes of trivial talk, they arrived at their destination. Exiting the subway, they walked for approximately fifteen minutes before they reached the address they were looking for; an old and modest house.

"Here we are," Max announced. "I wonder if he still has the necessities to help us."

{Let's knock and we'll see.}

With Max knocking on the door, an old and short man opened the door.

"If you're here to talk about our so-called savior, I already have been bothered by one of your colleagues, so you can save yourself the trouble and go bug someone else." The old man immediately reprimanded.

"What? No, no. I'm not here to talk about divinity." Max corrected.

"Why am I being bothered then?"

"I… I've heard that you were once a mega stone refiner, so I was wondering if you could help us."

The old man then inspected Max for a brief instant.

"Sorry about that. When it's not about insurance, it's those religious witnesses or whatever coming to harass me. Come in." He said before walking away.

Entering, Max closed the door behind.

"The kitchen is this way." He called out from another room.

Taking off his shoes, he followed the voice with his companions and saw the old man preparing something.

"Does everyone like tea?" He asked.

"I don't mind, but I don't know about the girls," Max replied, looking at his companions, with what they all answered in gestures that they didn't mind either. "Sure thing."

"Alright. You can sit down in the meantime."

With the old man busy, Max and the others sat around a kitchen table, which seemed to be a bit too big for a single person. Scarlet, however, was the only one that remained standing behind Max.

"I hope we're not bothering you," Max started.

"I'm retired, so what could you possibly interrupt?" The man replied before chuckling.

"I don't know. I doubt I'm the only one that came here for your refining skills."

"Believe it or not, you are. I remember when I was younger. Those were great times. Mega stone demands were always through the roof."

"I believe it was a flowering industry since mega stones were discovered not a very long time ago."

"Indeed, but a lot fewer people care about that nowadays. Pokemon today are mostly just household companions."

"That's a shame. I mean, I never have been a huge fan of pokemon battles, but some pokemon do like it."

"They do, but they aren't really the problem. Pokemon battles are still a big form of entertainment. It's just that fewer people get to do it themselves and prefer watching it."

"Staying at home or battling, it doesn't matter much to me. As long as we live together, that's important." Max said, petting May on his lap.

As he was waiting for the water, the old man looked at Max, who was lovingly looking at his mawile, who did the same.

"Seeing you with your pokemon reminds me of my time with one of my own."

"You were a trainer?"

"No. I prefer to be within the safety of a stable job, but it didn't prevent me from experiencing life with a pokemon."

"Which pokemon did you have?"

"A female blaziken named Roosy."

"Where is she now?"

"She passed away a few years ago."

"Oh. I'm sorry."

"She always has been the energetic type, but unfortunately, no one is safe from the ravages of time. She got awfully sick until she couldn't fight anymore."

Max then got speechless in front of a rather sad story like this.

"But that's in the past now. No need to bring back painful memories." He said while serving everyone a cup of tea. "So? What brings you here exactly?" He asked, sitting on his own chair.

"I recently found a mawilite…" Max started before going over his backpack he dropped it next to him. "But it's very impractical in its current state, to say the least." He continued before placing the raw mega stone on the table.

"I see. Haven't seen a mawilite in a very long time." The old man commented, grabbing the stone to inspect it.

"Think you can help?"

"Of course I can. I have my own workshop in the basement."

"You do?"

"I haven't invested years of my life into mega stone refining just to forget it later on. I loved doing that, and I still do."

"How much time do you think it will take?"

"From how long I've been doing this, I could have it ready by tomorrow morning."

"That's great! How much will it cost? I'm not broke but I'm not rolling in gold."

"Since you're giving me the opportunity to work on a mega stone once more, it will be free of charge."

"Wow. That's very generous of you."

"Well, gotta do things with my free time."

"I suppose."

After a few more minutes of interaction, Max didn't want to bother him furthermore.

"Well, if everything is settled, we're gonna get going then," Max announced, standing up.

"Alright. I'll wait for your return tomorrow morning."

"Understood. See ya, then," Max wished before leaving.

{Finally.} Scarlet exclaimed, glad to be out.

"Were we that annoying?" Max jested

{Not you, him.}

"Give him a chance. He's old."

{If you ask me, the whole "doing that thing for free" is a bit sketchy.} She suspected.

"That's just your Scarletonoia speaking."

{Her what now?} Luna questioned.

"A little made-up term for Scarlet's paranoia."

{I'm being used as a made-up word now?} The gardevoir said with a raised eyebrow.

"From how many times it happens…"

{Whatever. So, what now? What do we do until tomorrow?}

"Good question," Max replied, thoughtful.

{We could always go for human activity.} Dusk proposed.

"Hm… That could be a good idea, but I'm not sure pokemon could be allowed everywhere."

{We won't know if we don't try.} Scarlet stated.

"I suppose."

{Any idea?}

"Let me check," Max said, searching in the tour guide he received earlier. "Hm. As I expected, there are not many Pokemon-friendly places in this city."

{Despite being surrounded by a lot of them.} Scarlet said, pushing a passing weezing away.

"The restaurants aren't any better. Practically none accepts pokemon."

{What kind of place is this, then?} Scarlet inquired.

"A human-favored city, I'd say. Oh, what about that?" Max said after something caught his interest. "An arcade."

{What's that?}

"A very, very fun place. It has a lot of activities, but mainly about slot machines and video games."

{Sounds interesting.}

{It sounds awesome you mean!} May exclaimed.

"Yes. That could be a lot of fun. Everyone's game for that? Pun intended."

{I've always been curious about why humans are so into that kind of thing, so why not?} Scarlet agreed.

{I've heard of these arcades, but I have never tried one for myself.} Luna shared.

"I guess we should talk this over with the others too," Max said before releasing the rest of his team. "Hi girls. The mega stone will be ready by tomorrow, so we thought about going somewhere in the meantime."

{And where is that somewhere?} Aurora asked.

"An arcade. A place solely made for having fun."

{Sure. Why not? I like having fun like everyone else.}

"Cool. What about you, Bonny?" He asked the half-listening lopunny, gently petting her. "Interested?"

{Yeah. Sure. Whatever you guys want.} The lopunny answered, not sounding that enthusiastic.

"You're also considered in this, but I'm almost a hundred percent sure you'll like it too."

{I'll take your word for it, then.} She agreed with a small smile.

"You all pretty much love board games, so there is no reason you wouldn't like it."

{We're with you.} Scarlet said.

{I hope they will accept us.} Dusk expressed.

"Well… it doesn't say they are allowed, but it doesn't say they are not either, so it's worth a try. If not, we could always have Scarlet tweak their brains a little."

{Ah. First time I heard you suggest something so evil.} Scarlet commented with a grin.

"I was mostly joking, but I really wish we could all get in without any trouble."

{I'll see what our options will be when there.}

"Cool. It seems to be quite far away, so we'll have to take the metro again, so onward then." Max announced before he and his companions headed to a metro station again.

When underground, they waited a little bit longer than last time before a train arrived. Getting in, they noticed that it was more filled than last time. They attracted a bit of attention, but this time, not because of Scarlet, but because he was traveling with his entire team out. When they sat, they were already forgotten.

[I know, you don't like that appearance, but don't you like it? Being almost invisible to them?] He said into Scarlet's mind.

[Well… If I'm being completely honest, I do, but since I was more or less used to that, it's as if they were thinking that they are better than me.]

[Now that's just your Scarletonoia talking again.]

[Maybe. I guess now I'll have to get used to feeling good.]

[Oh. I thought I was already doing a good job at that.]

[You do. Don't worry.] Scarlet reassured him, discreetly rubbing his closest thigh. [Besides, was that new term really necessary?]

[When it has your name on it, everything is.]

[Shit. I can't tell if it was cheesy as fuck or just belittling.]

[I meant no disrespect, so the former I'd say.]

[Uh huh. Watch where you put your feet. Been a while since I punished you the old fashion way.]

[You mean that thing you liked to do at the beginning of our relationship? It has indeed been a while since last time. I think my charm managed to get the best of you.]

[Or you just have been a really good and disciplined boy lately.] She said lewdly.

[If you say so.] He replied with a grin.

Roughly ten minutes later and after three stops, they arrived at their destination. Exiting the metro and the station, they ended at a similar part of the city.

{That's weird. I have this strange sense of déjà vu.} Scarlet commented sarcastically.

"Yeah, that's weird. I wonder why." He replied, playing along. "Okay girls, we're looking for a black building with a huge neon outline of a porygon's head on it."

{You mean that one?} Bonny pointed to their right.

Narrowing his eyes, Max looked at where she was pointing. With a lot of focus, he saw something that might be just like that.

"Damn. Impressive eyesight." Max complimented.

{Well, I basically have the same survival traits as prey animals, so my senses are quite decent.}

{Compared to humans, we all have good senses.} Scarlet mentioned.

"True, but I bet lopunnies have one of the best eyes." He said to her, looking at her in a way only she would understand.

{It might just be. But their ears though…}

{Okay, now you're just being kiss-ups.} Bonny replied, paws on hips.

"What? But I really mean it…" Max protested, making her look at him with a raised eyebrow. "Anyway, thanks for spotting it."

With Bonny rolling her eyes, the group headed towards the arcade building.

[She's barely feeling any better.] Scarlet said.

[At least she's improving, but I think some good entertainment is what she really needs. She will have so much fun that she will eventually forget about her worries.] Max affirmed.

[For an evening.] She mentioned.

[Your optimism sure helps a lot.]

[I'm sorry. It's just…]

[You're worried about her too, I know. We all are. It hurts to say this, but there's not much we can do. The rest is mostly up to her. The best we can do is to be the most supportive as possible without harassing her. She has to keep in mind that we're here for her and we love her the way she is.]

[Let's hope, even though she's like the third most stubborn member of the team.]

[With you being the first?]

[Second. Aurora beats me pretty easily.]

[Haha. Personally, I think it's a very close second.]

[If you say so.] Scarlet concluded in disinterest. [Anyway. Bonny is strong in many ways, so I'm convinced she will get through this somehow.]

[Let's hope so.]

Soon enough, they arrived at the arcade building and proceeded inside. Immediately, Max was astonished by the place, as the smell of popcorn and other snacks invaded their nostrils. Arcade cabinets of various forms were overflowing the place. The design was also something to be impressed about. The room was singular with a high roof and was mostly in a round shape with TVs, consoles, and the cabinets all around with a giant planet hologram showing in the middle, being projected by a rather large device.

"Here we are, girls. The arcade. One of the best places on earth." Max announced, looking around.

{It's quite noisy.} Aurora commented.

{I agree.} Bonny followed.

"Yes, it is. Don't worry, you will get used to it pretty quickly."

{If we don't go deaf, that is.} Aurora added.

"Don't exaggerate. Alright, the place is yours. You can go and explore what could amuse you."

{Before doing so, I believe we have to get a pass.} Luna said, pointing at Max's left.

"Good point." He said, heading towards the entrance counter. "I figured we have to pay to enter." He said to the male teen working behind.

"You figured well." He replied, quite disinterested.

Surely it was someone tired of his job, but Max didn't mind much. He was here to have fun.

"Do I have to pay for my g… pokemon?"

"Yeah, but they get a discount. If you ask me, it should be the other way around."

["Well, the thing is, nobody did ask you."] Scarlet said out loud telepathically, surprising the group.

The teen then glared at her a moment, but quickly revised himself when she glared back, but more menacingly.

"*Sigh* Two adults and six pokemon then?"

"Actually, one adult and seven pokemon."

"You don't say." The teen said, not believing him.

"Luna's actually a zoroark," Max informed, looking at his dark-type pokemon in human form.

"And so am I."

Looking at him with a raised eyebrow, Max looked at Luna again, who just exhaled a very weak Flamethrower for showing off.

"...Alright. One adult and seven pokemon, then." The teen said, tapping on his machine. "$135 please."

"Quite expensive," Max commented, going for the money.

"You have access to everything until closing time, so it's not that bad."

"True, I guess." Max conceded, giving the amount.

"Thanks." He coldly said, taking it.

He then gave them eight wrist tapes with a code on them.

"Just show the code to the attraction camera and you'll be good to go."

"Thanks. Great service, by the way, eleven out of ten," Max sarcastically said before going away, with the teen grimacing at his back. "Have fun, girls."

At those words, the group split into the usual two groups. Dusk, Jade, and May in one way, and Aurora, Luna, and Bonny into another. However, Max stopped Bonny by the shoulder.

"Would you want to play games with me?"

{I…}

{That's a good idea.} Scarlet said. {You two have fun together. I'll take your place in the meantime.} She added, joining the other two.

{But…} Bonny protested, but too late as they were already on their way.

She then sighed quietly.

"If you really don't want to-"

{It's not that. It's just that I feel like… I don't know… like a little baby that needs to be watched over.}

"I understand how you feel," Max assured, getting on his knees and turning her to face him. "But that's not the case."

Remaining silent, Bonny looked down.

"You're not feeling okay, Bonny. You can try to deny all you want, but we all see it. When someone feels sad or sick, what do you think the ones that care about him or her do?"

{They… take care of them.}

"Well, that's exactly what I'm doing. You're sad, so yes, I'll spend more time with you so you can get better. And I know what you're thinking; No. Feeling bad from time to time isn't a sign of weakness. For you, it's the opposite. You become more aware of your limits. It's painful, I get it, but acknowledging that is already a sign of progress. You know what they say, a problem is halfway resolved when it has been identified."

{I know, master. I know all of that. I just thought I was stronger than that.}

"You are strong, Bonny. Maybe not as much as you'd like, I don't know, I'm not in your head, but you are strong nonetheless. And you know what?"

{What?}

"You're simply the cutest pokemon ever. It may be wrong to say it, but even with that face you're sexy as fuck." He assured, rubbing one of her cheeks. "And those eyes! Black eyeballs with reddish-pink iris. They are driving me crazy all the time."

Faintly smiling, Bonny looked away with a very faint blush.

"You wanted friends Bonny, so deal with the fact that we care for you. No one thinks less of you. They just want to see you smile and be flirty like before. Even Dusk said she missed your lewd side."

{That's barely believable.} Bonny replied, skeptical.

"Do you want to go ask her? She shouldn't be far," Max said, looking around.

{Okay, okay. Let's say I believe you then.}

"Good call."

{*sigh* I guess that having you all for myself has its benefits.}

"That's the spirit," Max said before strongly hugging her.

{Thanks. I would be nothing without you.} She said, returning it.

"I'm sure you could manage somehow, but thanks. You also bring a lot into my life."

{I'm sorry for worrying all of you.}

"It's okay. You have the right to have emotions as well."

{Hehe, you're probably the only one who knows that we have some too.} Bonny said, breaking the hug.

"Every trainer that spends a little bit of time with their pokemon knows that. What I do afterward, though, I'm not in the majority, indeed."

{Hehe. Yeah. Such a dirty and naughty master.} The lopunny giggled, bopping his nose with one claw.

"Can't say that I am not. After all, I have a group of seven beautiful girls that accept me the way I am."

{We should move on before anyone begins to suspect something.}

"I wish I could say I don't care, but I have you, girls, to think about, so yeah," Max conceded, standing up. "How about I show you what a fighting game is like?"

{That could be interesting. I know a few things about fighting games.}

"Really? Can't wait to see that," Max replied, taking her by the paw.

After they found a cabinet with a fighting game called "Battle along the Road", Max taught her the basics. Even though she got used to it quickly, she was no match for Max. She almost won one game, however. Eventually, she got tired of having her ass kicked and wanted to try something else. She then tried a few more games here and there, with some that were single-player. Not having the 'hands' for those, she had trouble with some controllers, making the game nearly impossible for her to play. With her paws, she could manage, and even though Max was next to her and trying to help her, she had to shut him up a couple of times since he was stressing her out more than anything. A little while later, as they were looking around after buying and consuming a snack, they came across a dancing game where Aurora was destroying everyone, humans as well as a few pokemon.

"Wow. I didn't know you could dance," Max praised after another win.

{Fushiu was very strict with my feet movement... so I had no choice but to… get good.} She said, slightly panting. {The competition is weak, though. No one can even get close to my level.}

"Naturally. What about you, Bonny?" Max questioned, looking at his lopunny, who seemed to be intrigued. "Do you want to try your luck against her?"

{...It could be fun.} She accepted before heading next to Aurora.

"You can do it, Bonny." He encouraged her.

After Aurora quickly explained how it works, they immediately began to compete and Aurora instantly understood that she would have to go up a notch against her as Bonny also knew how to dance. Unfortunately, it wasn't enough to beat the lucario, but it got close. After a rematch, Max got quite surprised that no one was minding them playing in rows as they were more interested in the dance battle between these two. Eventually, their matches almost always resulted in a tie.

{Phew! This is more exhausting than I thought.} Bonny shared while they both went for a break.

{Isn't it? In combat, you can have seconds to take a break from time to time, but not here.} Aurora pointed out.

"I couldn't be more proud of you two. You really know how to use your bodies."

{Watch out, Max. An erection here could be quite inappropriate.} Aurora teased.

"Indeed, so I shouldn't look anymore."

{What about you? Do you want to try?} Bonny asked.

"It's nice of you to ask, but no thanks. I'm not really into dancing games."

{Oh. Okay.} She replied, sounding slightly disappointed.

{Shame though. I would have liked to see how you could dance yourself.} Aurora shared.

"Sorry."

{Well, you don't have to stay here, then. You should go play on your own. You're gonna get bored by just looking at us.} Bonny suggested.

{Even though I'm sure he's enjoying the view.} Aurora commented with a grin.

"What about you? I don't really-"

{Relax. I'm with her. I'll take good care of her.} The lucario added, putting an arm around one of the lopunny's shoulders. {Besides, I suppose you want to play more, right?}

{Yeah. I've yet to beat you.}

Max then looked at Bonny a bit worryingly.

{We have been together almost non-stop for the past week. I think I'll survive a moment without you.} The lopunny stated.

"Well… if you really say so…"

{Don't worry, master. I'm fine, really.}

Max then rubbed his neck in reluctance.

"...Okay. Have fun then I guess. Come back to me whenever you feel the need to." Max said to Bonny.

{Promise.}

"Later." He wished, leaving them.

Before wandering around something interesting, he did a small detour to the bathroom. A few minutes of searching later, he got in, chose a cabin, and did his business.

(Feels good.)

When done, he flushed and exited the cabin. Then, a weird but handsome-looking man was standing there, lying against the wall and staring at him. With a raised eyebrow, Max was about to pass next to him but blocked his way.

"Can I help you?" Max asked calmly.

Without answering, the man gave him some honeyed eyes and brushed a finger across his chin.

"Calm down there," Max warned before smacking his hand away before finishing. "I'm flattered, but I don't swim in those waters."

{Ooh! The little pup showing his teeth. I like that.}

"...Luna?" Max said upon hearing the zoroark's pokespeech.

{Do you know how it makes me feel when my prey resists?}

"Hem… happy?" Max guessed.

With a mischievous grin, Luna pushed Max all the way to the last cabin until he fell on the toilet. When both were in, Luna closed and locked the door behind her. Immediately after, Luna morphed into her normal appearance. She then sat on Max's lap and coiled her arms around his neck.

"It's quite odd seeing you be that straightforward," Max stated with a pounding heartbeat.

{Well, seeing you getting trapped in a place where you can't easily escape triggered something in me. You know how I am. The more defenseless you look, the more… instinctive I get, to say it elegantly.}

"Yeah. That soft aggressive side of you I know a little bit about."

{You're harsh.} She said with a smile. {Anyway, it's not like I would try to hide it, but mostly only you would know.}

"Of course. So? You're really up to that?"

{I don't mind if you say no.}

"I won't, but here? In the men's restroom?"

{Why not? It's not much different from any other place.}

"Well, other people could hear us."

{Then you better not make a sound.} Luna advised before gently shoving her tongue inside Max's mouth.

Max never minded dominant females, liked it even, especially with Bonny in her mega form and Scarlet from time to time. However, Luna was going up a notch a little, as if it was her specialty. He loved it and guessed that she knew it too.

{Will it be my lucky day? Will you be able to make me orgasm?} She coaxed with predatory eyes.

"I don't know. I've already tried a couple of times now."

{Three times isn't that many, but you're learning. You're getting closer and closer with each session.}

"I wonder who you got that from."

{You think I'm doing that on purpose?}

"No. I-"

While speaking, Luna put a claw over Max's mouth. As he was wondering why, the restroom door opened a few seconds later. As they were waiting for him to be done, Luna kept eating Max with her eyes, as if she was planning something. After a short moment, the dude was done and gone.

{Better get started before we get caught.} She suggested.

"Y-You don't say. But it will be hard with my pants on."

{Relax, little pup. We're not in that much of a rush. Though, I'm still impressed as to how much of an effect I have on you.} She pointed out, barely moving her hips as to tell him what she was pressing against. {Who could have known that our proud and strong little pup was into female dominance. That's quite cute, actually.}

"Come on, don't exaggerate. You know that I don't take shit from no one." Max argued, very embarrassed.

{But of course. Our little pup is courageous and independent. But…} She started with a small grin while lightly grinding against his shaft. {I don't have any memories of seeing you getting hard that fast. Besides when you see Bonny's mega form, I mean. You really like that body of hers when she mega evolves, don't you?}

"I… can hardly prove you wrong."

{Hihi. There's also Scarlet, but she mostly cheats, so it doesn't count that much.}

"What do you mean?"

{She directly controls your desired feelings with her power. But I guess it's the result that matters most. Now, you know how I enjoy silent mating. Just like the other times, be quiet and focus on those feelings.}

With her paws pressing against the wall and her arms on each side of Max's head, Luna leaned a bit forward, opened her maw, and locked it onto Max's neck. Even if he knew she wouldn't hurt him, the action made his heart skip a beat nonetheless. Then, instead of tearing the flesh apart, she delicately ran her tongue across his skin, making him grasp her hips strongly.

"Damn, Luna…" Max softly said.

She kept doing that for a moment before freeing him. By how the human was looking at her, she understood that he couldn't wait anymore.

{Both you and Scarlet are such impatient beings.} She stated with a grin. {Very well, then.}

Standing up, Luna pulled Max's pants down without him even needing to stand up as well, proving how easily she could lift him. With his erection now free, Luna sat back on him while pressing her hot entrance against it.

{But unfortunately for you, I love playing with and torturing my prey from time to time.}

For a moment, Max wondered if it was really the case or she was just roleplaying. Something he could never be certain of with her. He then theorized that if she has a small sadistic side, that was probably why she was refraining her desires most of the time. It would make sense, but Max didn't want to think as such of her and went with the roleplaying thing, which was turning him on more than he could have thought. Gently and slowly rubbing her wet slit against him, Luna went for more tongue play in his mouth.

(Godamnit! She's such a man-eater.) He thought while trying to fight her tongue with his.

She kept savagely assaulting his mouth for a moment before stopping to look at him with lust.

{You'll be happy, I too can't wait any longer.}

(Finally!) Max thought while she was positioning herself.

However, she took more than her time to align it properly, making sure to tease him as much as she could before eventually putting the head in. She then looked at Max with a grin before dropping all the way down.

"Fuck…" Max lowly growled in pleasure after he felt her bump locking into his tip.

Like every time, the sensation was such that he sank his fingers into her buttcheeks. With a pleased smile, Luna got a good grip on the ground and the wall behind the toilet and started to gently move up and down, locking and unlocking Max's tip every time. Barely able to endure it, he was firmly grasping her hips with his head dropped against her chest, trying his best to not cum too quickly. Being the fourth time with her, he was slowly but surely getting used to her bump, hardly gaining a second or two of pleasure. Then, as they barely got started, Max felt his first orgasm coming up.

"S-Slow down, Luna." He asked.

Not listening, Luna kept a steady pace until the human couldn't resist anymore, painting her insides in white.

"I told you to-" Max started before being interrupted by Luna's claw again.

{I'll say it once more: I don't mind. If you can go for another round, we'll go. If not, just too bad, then.} She assured him with a warm smile.

"...Yeah, but…"

{*Sigh* I now know what the others meant when they say that you're a piece of work sometimes.}

"How nice of them," Max replied sarcastically.

{So? What will it be?}

Max then looked at Luna, who was patiently waiting for his response.

"Tsk. You're way too enticing to go just one time."

{Hihi.} Luna giggled heartfully. {My my. What a charmer. I'm flattered. However…} She said with an almost unhealthy grin. {You just signed your death sentence.}

With a mix of fear and excitement, Max braced himself for whatever was coming or at least tried to. Before she kept going at it relentlessly, she tightened her vagina, squeezing his shaft firmly through her movements. Even though she was the type to take it slowly, Max noticed a faint acceleration in her speed, probably wanting to torment him while still enjoying it her way. Luckily, his first orgasm made him able to withstand her 'attack' more efficiently and last a bit longer. Then, as he was feeling an orgasm coming up, they heard the restroom door again, but this time, two seemed to have entered as they were talking while getting in.

"It's crazy how much she can piss me off, sometimes." One of them said.

"That's why we're here, no? To see if you could spot another girl." The other replied.

Upon hearing them, Luna stopped. Then, while being sure to stare at him, Luna very slowly resumed, making Max motion no with his head. Obviously, Luna wasn't one to comply, especially when she decided to play with her food. Fortunately, Luna was skilled enough to make zero noises, but Max had to gather a bit of willpower to not make any himself. It took them a little while for them to be done as they were mostly talking.

"I can't… hold it anymore."

Almost at the same time as the others were gone, Max came inside the zoroark one more time, grabbing her hips while he was pushing further on his own.

{Aw. What a shame. I was getting there.}

"Very encouraging," Max replied sarcastically, lightheaded.

{Hihi. It is.} Luna assured, brushing his hair. {It means that you're getting close to where not many others have managed to achieve.}

"Tss. I guess if you were easy to please, you would lose a bit of that inaccessible aura you have."

{Would I now? I'm rather satisfied with what I have, but I don't see myself as an easy lady, though.}

"I have no choice but to believe you."

{Why would I lie to you?}

"Well, virtually, there are plenty of reasons why one can lie, but you, I… don't know. It wouldn't profit you in any way I guess."

{I wouldn't rape you in a public restroom if I didn't like our… interactions.}

"True. Or maybe you just like to torment me."

{Who knows. Maybe I do. Maybe I don't. Anyway, I believe you had enough for the moment.}

"I wish I could keep going, but…"

{But we're gonna try again another time. Try to recover until then.}

With a boop on Max's nose, she unplugged herself from him and changed into the same guy as earlier before leaving.

(Damn! There's something about her that makes me go insane.)

After a brief moment of coming back to his senses, Max left the restroom as well. Then, as he was walking to find anyone or something really interesting, he met Jade, who was looking at the planet hologram, all alone.

"Beautiful, isn't it?" Max engaged, now next to her while looking at the hologram as well.

{...Yeah. I guess so.} She said after briefly looking at him.

"Despite the ugliness within it."

{...}

"Why are you alone? Where are the others?"

{I don't know. I just wanted to be alone for a moment.}

"Oh. I'm sorry, I should have guessed."

{No, that's okay. Your presence doesn't bother me much.}

"That's flattering from someone who wanted to be alone."

Jade blushed slightly, then gently played with her necklace.

{How's Bonny doing?}

"Better. She's currently playing with Aurora. She really seems to be having a great time here."

{That's nice. It's quite a relief, then.}

"Yeah. That metagross incident really got to her. What about you? Having fun yet?"

{I… Y-Yeah, of course.} She lied.

"Funny, I have the feeling that you could enjoy your time here a bit more."

{I… don't know.}

"Come on, Jade. Now is the time to let yourself go a little. Come on." Max said, grabbing one wrist and pulled her away.

{But…}

Forcingly following Max, Jade got dragged towards some games, where he encouraged her to join him. At first, she declined, giving the excuse of not being good and not wanting to make him lose, with what he replied that he didn't care and they were here for fun. He first started with a side-scrolling co-op game. Surprisingly, she got the handle of the game very quickly and was almost carrying Max on harder levels. Unfortunately, they couldn't reach the end due to the lack of extra lives. Next, he dragged her over for more games and was now playing a monster shooting game with gun controllers.

{Help! They're all focusing on me!} Jade asked, harassed by a lot of enemies.

"Trying to… the last one just keep's fucking moving around too quickly. I can't get it."

Overwhelmed, Jade got killed and Max quickly after.

{No! We were so close!}

"Dammit. My fault. I got too greedy and did nothing in the end."

{It's okay. You did your best.} She praised.

"Yeah, but do you know how many points that little fucker was worth? I'm kind of mad right now."

{Hihi. We can always go for another one.}

"Good idea, and since you seem to understand mechanics fast, I got the perfect game for us."

With Jade following, Max led her to another fighting game. However, this one was known to be a hard one to master. Combos were hard to input and special attacks were almost always situational. Not understanding the game one hundred percent himself, Max explained to her what he could. Again, Jade learned quickly and could beat Max after a couple of rounds.

"I'm gonna beat you this time." Max confidently said while on their last round of a match.

{Not a chance.} Jade replied, both very focused.

Seeing himself losing, Max went for a dirty maneuver and briefly messed with Jade's buttons and joystick.

{Hey! You're cheating!}

"That's not cheating. I'm balancing things over your OP character."

{How can she be OP? You told me she was one of the weakest.}

"I say a lot of things, so I don't remember everything. Damnit!" Max cursed after being KO'd again. "Even when I try to distract you, you still beat me. How humiliating." He added, dramatically feeling demolished.

{I can teach you some of my tricks.}

"Eh, that's even worse."

{Haha.} Jade laughed.

Then, the bitterness of his defeat was quickly replaced with joy when he saw Jade heartfully laugh for maybe the first time in her life.

{What do you want to try next?}

"Well, maybe another shooting game, but you versus me this time."

{Are you sure?}

"Getting cocky, aren't you?"

{Not really, but I… suppose I acquired a taste for beating you.} She said with a shy smile.

"And evil at that. Alright, let's say it's a special favor for you then."

{Thanks, Max.} She replied with a wider smile.

{Aw, and me who wanted to have a shot against you.} Luna said behind them.

"Oh, Luna. Didn't notice you there, as usual."

{Most of the time, I don't really do it on purpose.}

"And yet, you like doing it nonetheless."

{Hmm… perhaps.} Luna said, with a fake innocent face.

"Anyway, I wish I could say yes, but Jade and I kinda-"

{Oh, no no. Don't mind me. You can play with Miss, hem… Luna. I'll watch.}

"Won't you get bored?"

{Not really. I could use a break, anyway. My fingers are a bit sore.}

"Alright. Get ready for a beating, big girl." Max assured her confidently.

{Oh. I've also received my own love name, now.} The hidden zoroark said with a grin, moving next to him after Jade stepped aside.

"Sorry. It kind of slipped out on its own."

{It isn't half bad. So, how do we play?}

"Easy…" Max said before starting to explain the rules to her.

As she was spectating, Jade got a weak psychic signal sent to her brain, as if she had been called via telepathy. She turned around, floated away, and followed where she had the feeling to go. Further and a bit away from sight, Scarlet was waiting for her.

{Oh. Hi Scarlet. How are you doing?}

{Tsk. Getting too comfortable I see. Not sure if I like it.} Scarlet said with unamused eyes.

{Oh. S-Sorry. I didn't mean any disrespect.} Jade apologized, her smile fading away.

{Nevermind that, but it's pretty much why I wanted to talk to you.}

{...}

{You see, master is a really nice human. Always there for those in need and is very caring with those he loves. However, he has a bit of a hard time knowing where to draw the line. You and he are getting too close to that line for my taste.}

{I'm sorry. I promise you that we-}

{I have no need for your promises. What I need is that you keep your distance from him. I don't mind you being nice to him or of mutual service to him, but the feelings you are starting to have towards him are a big no-no.}

Feeling guilty, Jade grabbed one of her arms and looked away.

{After all, you're not gonna stay with us for much longer, so what's the point of even creating bonds in the first place?}

Jade then looked back at her in confusion.

{I… what?} She asked.

{You didn't… Godamnit, master. Someone didn't do his job properly.} Scarlet growled. {*sigh* Then I'm sorry to be the one to announce it to you, but you're not welcomed here enough to stay indefinitely.}

Widening her eyes, Jade was a bit in shock.

{I… but… you took me and…}

{At first, that was master's decision. I wanted to leave you where we found you, but master insisted on taking you with us. I agreed with the only condition that he gives you to another competent trainer. Speaking of which, I'll have to give him a little reminder. This story has gone on long enough.}

{That… can't be true.} Jade said, destabilized.

{That's the sad reality of it. I can be magnanimous towards a gardevoir like you on master's demand, but I have my limits. Just be sure you don't cross them while you're still here.}

At that, Scarlet floated away and left, leaving Jade alone with her thoughts, still processing what she just heard. Hardly believing it, she got back to Max, wanting to confirm Scarlet's saying, where he was in the middle of a fight with Luna.

{Is it true?} Jade asked Max rather loudly so he could hear her clearly.

"Jade? Are you talking to me?" Max asked, turning his head.

{Yes! Tell me the truth!} She asked rather aggressively.

Taken off-guard by her sudden behavior, Max was a bit lost at words.

"I'm… not sure I understand."

{Scarlet told me that you wanted to get rid of me.}

Stopping his game, Max turned around with a low sigh with Luna backing up a little.

"So she told you."

{Yes. So that was your plan? Kidnapping me and tossing me away like garbage later on?!} She angrily accused.

"No! Not at all. That's not what I 'planned'." Max assured her.

{I thought that you… and I...}

Uncontrollably, tears began to escape from her eyes before running away.

"Jade! Wait! At least let me explain!"

Max wanted to pursue her, but Luna stopped him.

{Don't. It will only make things worse.}

"I can't just let her go in that state without a proper explanation."

{She won't listen even if you do. What's worse, she might even attack you so as to be left alone. And then, things won't be pretty.}

Heavily sighing, Max rubbed his face.

"I should have guessed. Things can't go well for long." He complained, lying against the machine.

{It was bound to happen sooner or later. But I think it would have been wise to tell her before she gets too close to you.}

"Thanks, Luna. It really helps to tell me that now," Max replied, upset, at which the zoroark responded with a displeased glare. "*sigh* Sorry. I didn't mean to say that. Maybe I should have told her earlier, but what's done is done. There's not much we can do now. I'm such an idiot." He said, sighing.

{...You can still try to talk this out after she calms down.}

"I don't know. I don't really feel like staying here anymore. Dammit. I just wanted the girls to have a good time, but I guess I'll be the one to ruin the evening."

{You can always ask Scarlet to take you back to the hotel until the others have had enough.}

"Knowing how I feel, they'll want to come as well. And honestly, I don't feel like asking Scarlet for anything right now."

{...You're angry with her?}

"Let's just say yes for now. You know, she could have waited until after the night had ended before opening that mouth of hers."

{Be careful on that path. I doubt it will be healthy for your relationship if both of you start getting on each other's back.}

"Tsk. Whatever. I'll wait outside. Please don't tell the others for now." Max concluded, walking outside the building.

When outside, he sat on the sidewalk. After rubbing his face one more time, he felt Scarlet's presence a bit further behind him.

"I didn't expect you to actually show up, especially when you know why."

{I'm not a cowardly hypocrite. I figured that I owe you at least an explanation.}

"Not really sure I want one, though."

{...Suit yourself then.}

"Seriously, what's your problem with her? Why are you so inclined to break or destroy everyone around you?"

{Those are some big accusations for a small human.}

"You say that, yet I'm one hundred pounds heavier than you and a couple of inches taller."

{So? You think you can overpower me?}

"See? I think that's one of your major problems. Why is it always about being stronger, better, or more dominant over everyone?"

{Because that's how you survive.}

"On your own in the wild, maybe," Max argued, standing up to face her. "But that's not the case for you anymore. Can't you just get over your damn vendetta already, even for a little bit?" He added, making Scarlet look at him with slightly narrowed eyes.

{That's not how it works.}

"With poor willpower like that, I bet it doesn't."

{So that's how it's gonna be? Insulting me in order to make yourself feel better?} She said with arms crossed.

"Why did you have to ruin the moment for her? She was having fun, probably for the first time in her life, but now she probably won't be able to ever again. She admires you and respects you, but I now see that the feeling's not mutual."

{It never was. Do I need to remind you that she's a-}

"A gardevoir, yes. The same species as you. Are you ever gonna get over it eventually?! God!" Max expressed angrily.

For a moment, both glared at each other.

"You know what, forget it. Don't change, because I love you just the way you are, apparently." He said sarcastically.

{Is it me or did you also start to have feelings for her?} She accused with daring eyes.

"What? I... *sigh* I thought jealousy wasn't your thing since it's human-related."

{It's not about jealousy, it's about the agreement we had that you don't seem to respect much.}

"I do respect it. When was the last time you caught me trying to hug, kiss, or have sex with her?"

{I was talking more about the fact that you tried to find a way to persuade me to keep her with us.}

Max then looked at her confused.

{Oh, don't give me that look. You know full well what I'm talking about. I know for a fact that she was growing onto you and that you were slowly giving up on the idea of you giving her away.}

Max looked at her once more.

{You know that I'm not stupid. Even without my psychic abilities, I could see that from a mile away.}

"Even if it was the case, what did she ever do to you? Besides being a gardevoir by nature, of course."

{Don't you get all haughty with me! I never wanted her with us in the first place, but I conceded and shut up, just for you! I'm starting to notice that one of us is doing that a lot more than the other!}

"I'm not talking about going back on my words-"

{You are!} Scarlet cut. {I know that you want her to stay.}

"It's beyond that, Scarlet. We're talking about a sentient living creature, not a piece of chewing gum that got stuck under your shoes."

[Depends on your point of view, I guess.]

"Tsk. You know what, just forget it, alright? As long as you have that shitty way of thinking, arguing with you is a complete waste of time." He said before walking away from the building.

{And where do you think you're going?}

"Away from here." He retorted, not even looking back.

{You, ungrateful little… Ghra!} She muttered before growling and teleporting away somewhere else.

Inside, Luna was leaning against the entrance door, making sure that things weren't getting out of control. When she heard them separating, she sighed.

{Here we go again.} She mumbled with crossed arms.

At the same moment, May and Dusk were passing by.

{Are you okay?} Dusk asked, wondering what she could be doing all alone here.

{Yes, of course. Don't worry about me.} The zoroark answered.

{Have you seen master?} May asked. {We've been looking for him to play a game with us.}

{I…}

Luna wasn't one to lie, even if it was the blunt truth. However, in moments like this, she sometimes considered doing so, if it meant she could spare some useless stress. Unfortunately, she could never resort to that.

{I'm afraid our little pup is taking a walk outside.}

{Why?} Dusk questioned.

{He and Scarlet were bickering pretty hard.}

{Oh no, not again.} May said, discouraged. {I guess that means the party is over.}

Upon seeing the disappointed mawile, Luna couldn't let that happen, however.

{Of course not. We all can still have fun, even if he's not here.}

{It's not the same without him.}

{And I'm worried about him.} Dusk stated.

(Oh boy. How would he handle this?) Luna thought. {He's fine. You know him. It's not the first time this happens and it probably won't be the last time either. He brought us here so we can have fun, and wouldn't it be disrespectful to him if we weren't?} She tried to reassure them.

{...Yeah, but…} May started.

{It's not very fair. How can we have fun here when we know he's outside not having fun?}

For a moment, they made her think as she was scratching her head, not sure of what to say.

{I'm sure he wouldn't have wanted you to prevent yourself from enjoying this night.}

{...}

{I'm also sure that he will come back later. All we can do is to wait for him here.}

{...True.} May agreed. {Master would never leave us behind, even when he's angry.}

{See? No reason to worry too much.}

{I guess.}

{So, how about you show me that game while we wait?}

{Sure thing, Luna.} Dusk said, smiling again. {But I'm not sure you'll like it.}

{Let's take a look before jumping to conclusions.}

{Okay then.} Dusk conceded before both she and May turned to get back to the gaming.

(To think he has to deal with that on a daily basis.) Luna thought while following.

~POVC~

"Seriously, who does she think she is?" Max mumbled as he was wandering the streets. "Having no respect for life. Jade is such a nice gardevoir, why does she want to hurt her that badly? I thought that maybe she would at least see that not all gardevoir aren't heartless like those she knew, but no, she has to be too stubborn and chooses not to evolve her mindset. Anyway, it only concerns her for that part. If she wants to keep hating her species and even humans, that's her choice, but I won't let her bash on those who are nice just because she wants to."

While grumbling some more, Max wasn't really paying attention to where he was going. He was mostly walking straight forward until he had cooled off. Then, he spotted Jade further in, in front of a back alley.

"Jade? Is that you?" He called out while walking towards her.

She hesitated a moment before answering.

{Y-Yes.} She replied.

"For a moment, I thought I had lost you." He said while getting closer.

Unsure, Jade turned to face him and stayed still while holding one of her arms.

"I'm very sorry, Jade. I know I should have told you sooner, but… I never got the chance to, I guess."

{It's… okay. I'm used to it.} She replied with her gaze avoiding him.

"I don't want you to see it that way. I'm not throwing you away or anything of the sort. Scarlet was the one that wanted to get rid of you, whereas I wanted you to stay. You have progressed so much in battles lately, not to mention that you finally began to smile and laugh. All I want is to offer you a place where you can feel safe and at home. I wanted you to have a real family."

Briefly looking at him, her eyes went everywhere but at Max, unable to keep eye contact with him.

{Can we… talk this out somewhere else?} She proposed.

"Yeah. The walls have ears sometimes. Our business is no one else's business. Do you mind going back to the arcade?"

{No. Let's go.} She said before passing by Max.

With a desperate sigh, Max followed next to her.

章 76: Questionable Vibes

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章 76: Questionable Vibes

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