Emotional Fallout

That tone of voice was something that Scarlet had never heard before, especially from Dusk. It may sound like her, but it was way more ominous and remorse-lacking… Almost as if it were someone else's.

{… "Kill"? Kill who?} Scarlet asked, surprisingly calmly.

["Must… Kill… my… enemies!"] Dusk replied in a strange telepathic voice before grasping Scarlet with Psychic.

{G'ah! Dusk! Have you… lost your mind?} She inquired, struggling to break free as the delphox only tightened her psychic grip.

Scarlet then charged up and tossed a Shadow Ball at Dusk, causing her to release the gardevoir upon getting hit. Despite being freed, Scarlet noticed that her attack didn't do much as the delphox dispersed the cloud with a small shockwave.

{Goddammit, what is going on?} Scarlet mumbled before Dusk used Flamethrower on her. Seeing that there's no way out of this predicament, she readied another Shadow Ball and got into a battle stance. {Alright, Dusk. I won't kill you, but sorry in advance if I injure you.}

~POVC~

Back in the module, the rest of the group was still sound asleep, unaware of the situation unfolding outside. However, sensing a sudden shift in the atmosphere around her, Aurora jolted awake and sat up on the bed.

{Huh? What's… What was that?} She asked herself softly, not knowing what awakened her.

She took a quick look around, trying to figure out the cause of it before noticing the absence of Dusk and Scarlet.

{Wait… Where did they go?}

She assumed that they went to the bathroom or outside for a late-night stroll, so she wanted to get back to sleep, however, she couldn't shake this bad feeling in her gut. The longer she was awake, the more intense that feeling became, forcing her to close her eyes and use her aura to focus on her surroundings. She saw many pokémon and critters as she "zoomed" past them, with a couple seemingly disturbed as they could be seen running away. After a few moments of searching, she spotted two more auras that were in more distress, as if they were in a fight of some sort. Even though she couldn't perfectly identify one's aura, especially at this distance, these two signatures felt familiar, which she immediately realized who they belonged. Opening her eyes, she leaned over Bonny, ignoring the fact that she had one of Max's shirts on and gently shook her.

{Bonny?} She whispered very lowly in her ear, which was enough to stir her, but not fully wake her up. {Bonny! Wake up!} she whispered

{*snort* Heh, wha-?Oh… Hey Aurora. What… is it?} Bonny asked, turning to face her with only one eye opened.

{Something's wrong, Dusk and Scarlet aren't here. I think something might've happened to them.} the Lucario stated in distress.

{Huh? *yawns* What makes you think that?} The lopunny replied as she rubbed her eyes, sitting up.

{I felt two active auras not far from here and… I think it might be them.}

Bonny then briefly looked at her in confusion before deciding to believe her, as she wasn't really the kind of person to make this up. Lightly slapping herself in the face to further wake herself up, she looked back at the lucario in a serious manner.

{...Alright, I'm coming with you. Should we wake up the others?} Bonny asked.

{No need to.} Aurora replied, keeping her voice to a whisper. {If things go south while we're gone, Max should be safe here with May and Sally protecting him. I might just be paranoid here, but we can never be too careful.}

{...I guess you're right.} Bonny acknowledged.

{Just the two of us should be enough, especially if we join Scarlet and Dusk in whatever's going on.}

{I don't like it, but you got a point. Plus, the sooner we take care of this, the sooner we go back to sleep.}

Aurora nodded. {Let's go, then.}

With Bonny doing the same, they two exited the module without alerting the rest of the team and took off running into the forest.

{I wonder what they could possibly be doing out here so late.} Bonny commented, looking at the pitch black sky as she ran next to Aurora.

{Hold on.} Aurora suddenly said as she and the lopunny skidded to a halt. {*sniff sniff* Do you smell that?}

{*Sniff*... Smoke.} Bonny replied after taking a whiff.

{Yep, and it's near where those two auras are.}

{...Shit.} The lopunny cursed before they rushed towards the source of the conflict. {I hope it's not them. It can't be them, can it?}

{I hope not, but I wouldn't bet against it, c'mon!} Aurora followed as she ran at a faster pace.

For the next few minutes, Aurora and Bonny ran through the woods to investigate the conflict until they spotted a nearby fire.

{A wildfire?} Bonny commented. {Please don't tell me…}

{We don't know that it's them specifically.} Aurora announced. {Maybe it's a wild fire-type gone-}

Before she could say another word, Scarlet suddenly crashed through a tree and landed in front of them, small burn marks present on her body.

{Scarlet?!} Bonny exclaimed as she kneeled down next to her.

Scarlet then raised her arm and created a psychic shield in front of them, blocking an incoming Flamethrower.

{What the hell?!} Aurora asked, kneeling behind the shield as well.

{Rha…! You two shouldn't be here!} Scarlet said.

{Like hell we should.} Bonny retorted. {What's going on? Who did you piss off this time?!}

{*Cough* I didn't do anything, it's…} Scarlet retorted before seeing Dusk approaching them menacingly, blazing wand in hand.

["Kill… must… kill…."] Dusk growled as she eyed the trio with murderous intent.

{Scarlet…? Why is Dusk looking at us like that?} Bonny inquired, completely lost.

{Because as crazy as it sounds, she's trying to kill me, and in addition, you two now.} The gardevoir answered, standing up without unlocking her gaze from Dusk.

{But… It's Dusk, she'd never do something like that to anyone.} Aurora stated as she and Bonny stood by Scarlet. {What happened to her?}

Scarlet shook her head in disbelief. {I don't know, but she's lost her mind somehow. Something must be controlling her.}

{W-What?}

{No… No! That's impossible!} Bonny said as she was getting ready to fight. {I refuse to believe that! She's still gotta be in there somewhere, I know it.}

{I think so too. But-} Scarlet replied before shielding everyone from another Flamethrower. {...Where?}

{We'll find out as soon as we restrain her.} Aurora said before coating her paws with aura and dashing towards Dusk. {Bonny, with me, let's go!}

{Wait!} Scarlet called out.

Right as Aurora charged forward, Dusk aimed another Flamethrower at her, Aurora quickly assembled a shield out of her Bone Rush to block the attack. When the delphox stopped, Aurora was already on her and tried to bash Dusk with her shield. However, the attempt failed as Dusk's eyes glowed blue and protected herself with psychic energy.

{Shit!} Aurora cursed before retreating.

{Behind you, 'Rora!}

Appearing from behind the lucario, Bonny jumped over her and used High Jump Kick with Dusk managing to block it. The impact had enough force to create a shockwave and pushed her a couple of meters away.

{I'm not done yet!} Bonny followed up by chaining with Mega Kick.

{Watch out!}

Aurora then approached Bonny at lightning speed and used Force Palm to push her away, the two of them skidding to a stop away from each other without hitting any trees. Half a second later, Dusk's Mystical Fire appeared under where Bonny was standing before being pushed, the lopunny quickly thanking Aurora for the save. Then, from the flames, a Shadow Ball appeared and flew towards Dusk, who unfortunately for her, couldn't dodge or block it and took minimal damage from how weak it was. Dusk used her stick and created a tiny gust of wind to clear the energy cloud, but got countered by Bonny and Aurora who used Mega Kick and Meteor Mash respectively. This time, Dusk blocked both attacks efficiently, holding Bonny's leg and Aurora's arm in place. As she was about to counterattack, she sensed someone behind and turned to face them, only to see Scarlet.

{Enough.} Scarlet said before tapping Dusk's forehead with one finger, causing her to immediately fall to the ground and pass out. After taking a few seconds to confirm she was down for the count, the trio slowly approached her.

{Well… Looks like we got ourselves another problem.} Bonny commented in disdain. {*sigh* Max is not gonna be happy about this.}

{What could have possibly driven her mad like that?} Aurora asked, perplexed at the situation.

{I don't know. But for now, take her to the module and watch over her.} Scarlet instructed before unleashing a modified Ice Beam to put out the fire, creating a path for them to walk out.

{Need help with uh… this?} Aurora proposed, pointing at the fire while Bonny lifted Dusk onto her shoulders.

Scarlet continued putting out the fire, not even looking at them. {Unless one of you knows an ice or water-type move, no.}

{...Alright. What about you? Are you-}

{I'm fine, just… take Dusk back to the module.} Scarlet commanded impatiently while using Ice Beam in each hand, aiming at different angles.

Aurora silently turned to Bonny and nodded at her before the two walked back to the module with Dusk in tow, leaving Scarlet behind. They reached it after a couple of minutes, where they entered the kitchen and dropped Dusk on the bench table.

{*sigh* I wonder if we'll ever catch a break one of these days.} Bonny said softly.

{Don't count on it. We seem to be cursed or something, so we better be prepared for anything at any time.}

{That doesn't make me feel better about all this.}

Aurora shrugged. {You asked, I answered.}

{*sigh* Whatever. One of us should at least keep an eye on her.}

{I'll do it. You get some rest.} Aurora offered.

Bonny tiredly raised an eyebrow at the lucario. {Are you sure? I don't mind doing it myself.}

{Your raw strength is more efficient when you're well rested, and my aura feelers will detect any sudden changes regardless of if I'm awake or not, hence how I sensed her and Scarlet earlier.} Aurora explained to convince Bonny that she wasn't tired. {That being said, if she wakes up and attacks us again, we'll need to be ready before she even moves.}

{...Alright. We can take turns.} Bonny said, getting up.

{I'll take turns with Scarlet.}

Bonny then felt like Aurora was just coming up with an excuse to get rid of her, causing her to stare at the lucario in a slightly offended manner.

{I know what you're feeling, and I promise you that it's nothing personal. As much as you wanna help, we need sensorial pokémon to watch her. And like I said, you're more efficient when well rested.} She continued as Bonny wasn't entirely convinced, causing Aurora to walk up to her and put her paws on the lopunny's shoulders. {It's no surprise that you're the strongest normal-type I know, if not ever. Your strength is more useful than you think, but, this isn't the best time. If things go bad, you'll be the first one we call.}

{...Alright.} Bonny conceded, turning away to leave slowly while still feeling defeated. She took a few more steps before looking back at Aurora. {...You promise?}

{I promise.} Aurora assured her with a smile.

Smiling a bit herself, Bonny entered the bedroom and closed the door behind her. Aurora let out an exhausted sigh as she sat on the bench, watching over her unconscious friend.

{Dusk… What happened to you?} The lucario mumbled, quickly getting lost in her thoughts before noticing Scarlet teleport into the room, next to the table.

{How's the forest?} Aurora engaged.

{Could be worse.} Scarlet replied while laying against the counter behind her and stretching her neck. {Quite a few burnt trees, bushes, and some spooked pokémon, but it'll be fine.}

{That's good… Efficient and reliable, as always.} Aurora replied, trying to lighten the mood.

{*yawn* Thanks to Dusk and the very few hours of sleep I got, I feel like shit.}

{Eh… Psychic-types are almost omnipotent, but the fewer hours of sleep you get…}

Scarlet let out a tired chuckle. {We'll, we're not exactly gods now, are we? We all have our weaknesses just like every other type, but you're right about one thing; We're just built differently.} She jested, the two of them exchanging a small laugh.

{...Do you know what happened to Dusk?}

{*sigh* No… I could peek into her mind and find out, just not right now. Too tired.} Scarlet answered while resting her head on her hand. {My first guess would be that she lost control of her psychic abilities. It makes sense given her change in behavior lately.}

{She lost control? How?}

{Well… Simply put, a psychic-type's brain is exceptionally powerful, but it's not perfect.} the gardevoir began explaining. {They're a lot more complex than any other brain and have a lot more wiring compared to the different types. However, a more complex brain usually means more brain-related problems. The risk of mental complications gets lower and lower with each generation, but we are still the type that is more likely to develop mental illnesses and have more emotional breakdowns. From what we just saw Dusk go through, having your brain and psychic abilities go haywire is one of many things that can happen.}

{Uh huh…} Aurora replied intently.

{And that's another main reason why other pokémon are so scared of us, not to mention humans. They're afraid that we'll wake up one morning wanting to kill or bend them to our will, which… they're not entirely wrong about that.} Scarlet admitted, sounding a bit upset. {We're so unpredictable and unstable, even after countless millennia of evolution…}

{...Are you scared that it might happen to you one day?} Aurora asked, feeling somewhat uneasy herself, causing Scarlet to hesitantly look at her.

{I… I can't make any promises on that, but with what I've been through, I'm surprised I haven't lost my shit and killed everyone by now. There's a chance that it might've happened sooner, but… I'm still young. I'd still be relatively young, thanks to master.}

{What's that supposed to mean?}

{A gardevoir's life span is pretty high, even by psychic-type standards, living anywhere between a hundred and fifty to five hundred years. However, we have the ability to synchronize our life force to match that of the one we love. So since a human's life span is less than a hundred, I'll live for as long as he does.}

Aurora looked down in front of her while folding her paws together. {That is true. Even if it's uncommon for a human to live past that- Wait. Why are you thanking Max for this? Wouldn't it be depressing, knowing that you won't grow old and die much sooner?}

{*scoff* Not at all. I'll gladly trade my average life span for master's love and company. So what if I die sooner than the average gardevoir? My dream is to live and die together with Max.}

{Quite the dark dream, but it's the thought that counts….} Aurora asked, understanding the honor in Scarlet's decision.

{If you knew that master would die before you because you live longer, would you be able to keep going after his death?}

{Well… I mean…}

Scarlet interrupted the lucario before she could elaborate. {Actually, don't answer that. I don't want to know.}

{...Okay then. Who knows, maybe the other way around is true.}

{About what?}

{If being with a human reduces your lifespan so you can be with them, maybe him being with a psychic-type can extend his own lifespan and balance each other out.} Aurora pointed out. {Maybe instead of living for one hundred or five hundred years, you two could live to at least two hundred before… dying together.}

Scarlet smiled at the thought, grabbing her chin with her hand. {Dying together… isn't so bad when you think about it. Together until the end? It's pretty cute in my eyes.} Scarlet let out a chuckle with a wholesome small grin, getting lost in the daydream.

Aurora waved her hand at Scarlet to grab her attention. {Uh… Scarlet?}

{Hm… Oh, sorry.} Scarlet said, coming back to earth. {I mean, It's not impossible. Our bond is so deep that it might be possible. He lives longer, I can be together with him longer… I see this as an absolute win.}

{Alright… And what about Dusk… Are you gonna tell him?}

{*sigh* I don't know.} Scarlet replied, briefly rubbing her eyes. {He's been through enough with Luna right now.}

{We haven't seen her since the farm incident.} Aurora stated, resting her head in one paw as she leaned to the side.

{Mmhmm, and Max is getting increasingly worried for her every day. If Luna wants to speak with him while he's too busy tending to Dusk, who knows what'll happen.}

{Luna's smart. If she's aware of Dusk's state, then she'll know when to approach him.} Aurora stated.

Scarlet fidgeted in her seat, already fearing the worst. {I don't know… I guess, but these things take time and careful planning to execute. If master isn't available when she's ready to open her heart, that opportunity may be lost forever. Maybe another opportunity will present itself later on, but we can't be sure about that.}

{It's a pretty sensitive subject, even more so since it's Luna we're talking about.} Aurora stated, feeling bad for her friend.

{Indeed. But on the other hand, he has to know if he wants to help Dusk properly. Our best option would be to bring her to a Pokemon Center and get her checked meticulously.}

{I thought you studied that subject thoroughly?}

{I did, but if Dusk needs medications or healing procedures that even I can't perform, human knowledge would be more efficient. It pains me to say it, but there are some humans who do care for pokémon, not to mention that they have the technology to do a better job than me.}

{Which means we'd have to inform Max about her condition so he can check her in.}

{Gha! I hate when things like that happen.} Scarlet growled, briefly balling her hand into a fist, before taking a second to get her bearings. {Whatever decision we make, someone's gonna feel it passing. My first choice would be to protect master… but…} she trailed off, growing uncomfortable as she grasped her arm.

{...You actually care about Dusk, don't you?} Aurora stated, holding her head with one paw on the table.

{What the hell do you take me for, Aurora?!} Scarlet blurted aggressively, somehow managing to keep a low volume. {Of course I care about her. She's my friend, and…} She added, now looking away while calming herself down once more. {*sigh* If past me found out I'd say those words one day…}

{Crazy where life brings us, huh?} The lucario commented with a tiny smile.

{Tsk, don't make me talk about this. Anyway, if I choose Dusk, it would be the first time I would go against master's wishes… and it hurts me already. It just doesn't feel good for me.}

Aurora placed a paw on Scarlet's shoulder in an attempt to comfort her. {You're smart, Scarlet. You know too well that Dusk risks more than Max in this case. Your choice is just mostly biased because of your love for him.}

{...Is that an insult?} Scarlet asked, glaring at her.

{Not at all, but you have to be honest with yourself. Your decision-making mostly revolves around Max, whether it be for better or for worse.}

Scarlet crossed her arms in annoyance. {So what? I'm sorry if my devotion and unconditional love for him annoy you.}

{It doesn't, Scarlet, and I'm not criticizing you for it. I'm just pointing out facts, which luckily never penalized any of us. I'm mostly speaking in the past tense, but there was a time that you would've chosen Max over literally anything without hesitation.}

{...Hmpf. That's the thing with you; Even though I can read your mind, I don't know what you truly think of me.}

{I'm trying to figure it out myself, but for now… I see you as a strong, intelligent gardevoir who knows how to make the right decisions. Mostly.} Aurora praised before smiling.

Scarlet stayed quiet before letting out a sigh, reflecting on the lucario's words. {...Okay. We'll have to tell master everything so he can help Dusk properly. It'll worry him quite a bit though…}

{He's strong. He'll survive and will definitely say that you made the right decision.} Aurora assured her.

{*sigh* You're right. He's the type to try to spare my feelings as much as possible too.} Scarlet chuckled, knowing that's exactly the kind of thing he'd do.

{Same goes for everyone else. We should wake him up so he can put Dusk back in her pokéball.} Aurora announced as she stood up.

Scarlet put her hand up to stop her. {That won't be necessary. I used Hypnosis on her so she'd sleep for a while. I'll keep an eye on her just in case, so you can go rest.}

{Thanks, but no thanks.}

{...What?}

Aurora grabbed Scarlet's hand and pushed it aside. {You need more sleep than me, Scarlet. I've told Bonny this as well, we need you at your best if things go south. Besides, you don't have a pokéball, so I can ask Max to let me sleep in mine if I get too tired.}

{...*sigh* I hate when people other than me are right.} Scarlet admitted in annoyance, making Aurora chuckle. {Alright, you win, but if anything happens, I'm the first one you call. Got it?}

{Will do.}

{See you tomorrow morning, then.} Scarlet wished before leaving the counter to head towards the bedroom.

{Oh, and if Max wakes before you, do you want me to tell him?}

{...Sure, whatever. Just wait for me to get up before deciding anything, please.}

{I'll see what I can do.}

{Just use your feminine charm if he gets too antsy. That's his weakness.} Scarlet suggested before getting inside the bedroom.

{...Hmpf. As if there's a lucario more charming than me.} Aurora muttered to herself.

The next morning, Bonny was the first to wake back up and exit the bedroom. While yawning, she walked toward the table and took a seat next to Aurora, who was lying against the wall watching TV.

{You stayed up all night?} The lopunny engaged.

{Good morning to you too.} Aurora greeted with a tired grin.

Turning to look at her, Aurora noticed that Bonny was still wearing one of Max's shirts from last night. The hole of the head was slightly too large with the base of the shirt stopping at her upper thighs.

{How did that shirt not get burned?}

{Shh, don't worry about it. Besides, I'd steal his shirts almost every morning in the winter, so… I guess that habit somewhat stuck with me?} Bonny explained to the exhausted lucario. {Plus, wearing his clothes calms me down.}

{...It kinda makes you look cuter, especially without your scarf. The color wouldn't go well with that.} Aurora complimented.

Bonny tugged at the collar of the shirt. {Yeah, I like taking it off from time to time to let my neck breathe a little. However, the one who likes it the most is master, since it's basically like watching me strip naked for him. You can imagine the effect it has on him.}

{I have a pretty good idea, yes.} Aurora nodded with a smirk, with Bonny doing the same as she looked at the still-unconscious delphox.

{At least she seems calm.}

{Yeah… She didn't move a muscle last night.} the lucario stated before yawning.

{I don't know if that's good or bad.}

{We have to trust Scarlet on this. Things might seem bleak now, but I'm sure she has everything under control.}

Bonny sighed in an attempt to stay optimistic. {You're right, I'm just a bit too worried I guess.}

A little while later, Sally was the next to awaken as she entered the kitchen.

{Good morning.} Bonny greeted.

{Mornin'.} The cinderace replied while drowsily heading towards the bathroom.

Upon exiting the bathroom, she returned to the kitchen to make herself a glass of water. Not even looking at them, Sally made her glass and joined the girls before turning to look at Dusk.

{Morning Dusk.} The cinderace said as she took a sip, before suddenly stopping right as she realized she was out like a light, almost dropping her glass. {Why is Dusk sleeping on the kitchen bench?}

{She didn't feel very well last night. We'll go over the detail as soon as everyone's up.}

{...Alright.} Sally conceded before resuming her drinking.

Over time, May and Max eventually woke up and joined them, where Bonny and Aurora finally took the time to explain what happened last night.

{That's terrible.} Sally commented, slightly horrified.

{Poor Dusk. She really didn't need this.} May added.

"No kidding. How did I not notice anything sooner?" Max said, lying against the counter.

{None of us really did.} Aurora reassured him. {And according to Scarlet, it's something that can happen spontaneously. It's just one of those things.}

Max briefly groaned while rubbing his face. "Spontaneous or not, I should've known about it. Her safety is my priority, and if I can't keep her safe and healthy, then-"

{Master, relax.} Bonny intervened. {She's alive, she's healthy, and she's probably back to normal by now. No need to panic.}

"I'm not panicking, I'm… Look, as if the thing with Luna wasn't bad enough, it's like I'm starting to lose control."

{You're not, Max.} Aurora encouraged him. {What we should do right now is to take her to a pokémon center right away.}

"*sigh* You're right." Max agreed while rubbing his face. "I wonder which one is the closest, back in the previous town or in the one ahead?" He asked before hearing the bedroom door open, revealing Scarlet rubbing her eyes exhaustingly.

{The previous town.} She answered while resting a hand on the door frame.

"Then we'll have to go back."

{I can teleport us there. It's a place we've already been to and we're not that far away from it. At worst, there's a bit of walking to do.} She explained while joining them.

"Alright. Let's put her in her pokeball and—"

{Maybe…} Sally started, getting everyone's attention. {Shouldn't we… tell her something before?}

{She's right.} May agreed as everyone looked at each other. {Dusk has the right to know what she's about to go through.}

{And become aware of what she did.} Aurora added.

{And finally, to know how she is now.} Scarlet completed.

"...You're right. Can you bring her to the bedroom?" Max requested Scarlet before heading there.

{Sure.}

Touching him and the delphox, Scarlet teleported them to the bedroom, with Dusk lying on the bed. The door then closed behind Max while getting next to Scarlet.

"Do you mind if I do this alone?" Max requested.

{Not at all. She'll probably be shocked by the news, so the less of us there are around her, the better. I'll stay ready in case she doesn't react well.}

"Thank you."

Scarlet approached the sleeping delphox. {I'll wake her up.}

Leaning above her, Scarlet touched Dusk's forehead like she did last night before getting next to Max.

{It may be risky, so be careful.} She said, briefly rubbing his closest shoulder before leaving.

Taking a deep breath, Max sat on the bed right next to Dusk before placing a hand on her shoulder and shaking her gently.

"Good morning, sunshine."

{Hmn…} Dusk muttered as she opened her eyes. {Mas…ter?}

"Yeah, that's me." He said with a smile, carefully helping Dusk sit up next to him.

{Good… *yawn* Morning.} She said back, softly rubbing her face.

"How do you feel?" Max asked softly.

Dusk placed her hand on her head, lightly rubbing it. {Not… great. Aside from the small headache, I feel pretty weird. Other than that, I feel fine.}

"That's good. Do you remember anything?"

{Huh? About what?}

"About last night." Max asked nervously.

{Last night?} the delphox pondered. {Well, the last thing I remember was me getting into bed. I'm not sure if I woke up in the middle of the night… Maybe I sleep-walked on my way to the bathroom.}

"Nothing else besides that?"

{...Not… really.} Dusk answered after briefly thinking.

"...Okay then."

{Why are you asking me that? Did something happen last night?}

Max's smile began to falter. "Well… Kinda."

{...What happened?} The delphox asked, staring at Max worryingly by his change in tone.

"You… might want to get comfortable for this," Max said, moving toward the base of the bed, Dusk being a bit confused as she did the same and sat next to him.

"Dusk… This isn't easy for me to say, and you're gonna find this hard to believe, but…"

For the next few minutes, Max took the time to narrate what Scarlet shared with him a moment ago. He made sure not to leave out any details, from the moment where Scarlet followed her in the woods to the moment where she put Dusk to sleep. That entire story was hard for Dusk to hear, especially considering that it made it seem like 'something' was controlling her at the time.

{...N-No…} Dusk said while looking at the ground with wide eyes. {That's… I don't…}

"It's okay, Dusk. Everyone's okay and no one is angry at you, not even Scarlet."

{...What… have I done?} Dusk almost mumbled, looking at her hands which were starting to shake out of fear. {I hurt… my friends. I'm… I'm a monster.}

"No, Dusk," Max reassured her while putting a hand on her thigh. "You just—"

{S-Stay away from me!} She blurted before standing up and retreating to the corner of the bedroom. {I don't want to hurt you too!}

"Please, Dusk. Calm down." Max requested calmly, standing up as well to slowly walk towards her.

{I said stay away!} Dusk demanded again, pressing her back against the wall and swiping her hand at him.

"Dusk, please listen to me," Max said, slowing his pace without stopping. "No one risks anything right now. We just need to talk this through calmly."

Suddenly, Dusk drew out her stick and pointed it at Max, forcing him to a halt.

{Please, Max! Stay away…!} She requested, her entire body shaking with tears in her eyes. {I… don't want to hurt you.}

"Dusk…" Max whispered sympathetically.

At this instant, Scarlet teleported inside the room next to Max. Dusk pointed her stick at the gardevoir on instinct but was immediately disarmed, to which Scarlet restrained her with her powers and moved in front of the delphox. There, she could see how sad, scared and desperate she looked as she stared into her eyes.

{Sorry, my friend…} Scarlet muttered as she used Hypnosis on her once more.

This time, she put Dusk in an emotionless trance rather than deep sleep, causing the firefox to drop to her knees upon release.

{Why is this… happening to me?} Dusk inquired coldly, sounding half present.

"We don't know Dusk, that's why we're gonna get you to a pokemon center. That way, we can know what the problem is and how to treat, or more preferably, cure your condition. Are you okay with that?"

{Of course, mister.} The delphox, looking at nothing in particular.

With Max briefly nodding at Scarlet, the gardevoir materialized Dusk's pokéball in hand before giving it to Max. The human then kneeled in front of Dusk and placed a hand on her cheek, softly caressing it.

"Dusk, remember that this wasn't your fault and that I'll always love you, no matter what. We're gonna figure this out together, I promise you."

{...Okay.} Dusk replied, sounding slightly disinterested.

"We'll get you in a pokemon center."

After placing a kiss on her forehead, Max put her in a pokéball and stood back up.

"It will be okay, Dusk." Max said before minimizing the pokeball to put it in his belt.

{I'll get us there as soon as you're ready.} Scarlet informed.

"Alright. Let's pack everything and we're good to go."

After both left the bedroom, they saw the girls already carrying the stuff to the locker room.

{That was the last thing.} Bonny said while passing by them with the last item.

"Great. Thanks."

{...It didn't go well, did it?} Sally asked, who just came out.

"Not much," Max replied. "But everything will be okay. She will be checked and healed at the pokemon center."

{I hope.} The cinderace said, sounding very worried.

"She will, you'll see." Max reassured her before briefly petting her.

As soon as everyone was out, Max put the module into its portable mode and put it on his back. With none of the team wanting to be in their pokeballs due to being too worried, the group gathered together before Scarlet teleported everyone to the previous city; BoonTown. Even though Scarlet aimed directly at the pokemon center, they reappeared at the edge of the city, surprising a few citizens due to their sudden appearance. Not caring, the group immediately quickly walked towards the pokemon center, which they reached a few minutes later. Unfortunately, the two nurses were already busy with two other trainers, who weren't looking much in a hurry.

{Crap! Of course, we have to wait.} Bonny complained.

Having not even stopped, Max and Scarlet went for the closest nurse. When next to the trainer, Max put Dusk's pokeball on the counter.

"Sorry to interrupt, but it's an emergency," Max said directly to the nurse.

"Hey, dude. There's already—"

The trainer barely had the time to pronounce those before Scarlet glared menacingly at him, shutting him up instantly.'

"Something happened to my delphox and she may be a danger." Max explained to the nurse.

"Danger? What happened?" The nurse replied, quickly grabbing the pokeball.

"A mental breakdown, or something like that. Her personality changed and she suddenly attacked us." Max added quickly.

"Alright. Sorry, I'll be back." The nurse apologized to the other trainer before leaving in a hurry.

Sighing in relief, Max left the counter to join the other girls, who were waiting near the entrance.

"Pfft. Who does he think he is?" The trainer complained softly.

Scarlet balled a hand into a fist in anger, but Max stopped her by grabbing her by the wrist before she could do anything.

{And now we wait?} Aurora said.

"Now we wait." Max confirmed.

With that, all headed to the waiting area, where they waited while sitting or walking around in circles. They waited for around forty minutes until a third nurse came to engage them.

"How is she doing?" Max asked, jumping up from his chair.

"Well… Not really fine. She isn't in a life-threatening state, but…"

"...But what?"

"We are not sure for now, but something is definitely wrong with her cerebral activities. Unfortunately, we'll have to keep her under observation here for at least twenty-four hours for a more complete diagnosis."

"Damnit!" Max growled, not happy with the news.

"You can come back a little bit before noon tomorrow. We should have a better idea of what is really happening."

"Alright. Can we at least see her?"

"I'm afraid not. For a better understanding of her brain activities, we have to put her into an artificial comatose state for the tests."

"...I see." Max said, briefly looking at the ground. "We'll come back tomorrow. Thanks for your help." He added before leaving for the outside.

When under the sky, Max went to sit on the few steps of rocky stairs leading to the pokemon center from the road. Instantly, he dropped his head on his hands and sighed loudly.

"...Well, shit."

{Indeed.} Scarlet agreed, sitting next to him.

{Another day, another bundle of problems coming with it.} Bonny said, sitting on the other side of him. {It's like Arceus is messing with us for entertainment.}

{I doubt that's what Max needs to hear right now.} Aurora pointed out, standing behind him with Sally and May.

{Sorry.} The lopunny apologized.

{I hope she will be okay.} Sally expressed with a saddened face.

{Me too.} May approved.

"We all do, but we can't do much besides waiting for confirmation. From how she announced it, it doesn't look good."

{Try to put those pessimistic thoughts aside, master.} Scarlet requested, dropping one hand on one of his, gently rubbing it. {In moments like this, you need positive reinforcement.}

"I wish I could, but how? What positivity can I have at this very moment? Everyone is going to shit right now."

{No one is about to die, master. That nurse just said that she wasn't in a life-threatening state. No matter what happens, she will still be alive.}

"Depends on 'alive how'? There are a few fates worse than death in this world."

{I'm sure she will get none.}

"...*sigh* And Luna… I'm starting to wonder if she's starting to consider leaving for real. She seemed more distant than usual yesterday when I gave her food."

{I…} Scarlet started, not sure what to answer.

{It's Luna. It probably doesn't mean a thing.} Bonny reassured him.

"...Yeah. I'll give you this one. *sigh* Anyway, if we stay around for twenty-four hours, we'll have to get a hotel room for us. Might as well go check in. It will be over already." Max said before standing up.

Max and the group then headed towards the hotel they stayed in the last time they were here. While doing so, Max noticed that Scarlet was walking instead of floating.

"Are you holding up there?" Max inquired.

{Yeah. Teleporting everyone over that distance was a bit tiring. A couple of minutes of not using my powers and I'll be fine, though.}

"Alright. Thanks again."

{Don't mention it. Dusk is my friend, so of course, I would help.}

"Yeah. It's great having people or pokemon you can trust and rely on these days."

{You tell me.}

Later, they reached the hotel and rented a room before getting in to drop off Max's stuff.

{Where are you going?} Scarlet asked when she saw Max opening the door to leave.

"For a walk. I need to vent and relax on my own a little."

{Oh, on your own… Be careful, then.} The gardevoir replied, obviously sounding a bit disappointed.

"I will, thanks. I'm sorry." Max finished before closing the door behind.

{...I think I'll do the same.} Aurora announced, heading towards the door as well. {I'm really not feeling like staying within four walls at the moment.} She added before leaving as well.

Sighing, Scarlet at the edge of one of the two windows, where she looked outside and stared at Max walking away from the building.

{...What do we do, now?} Sally asked.

{We wait. There's not much we can do at the moment.} Scarlet answered.

Scarlet then used her powers to materialize all the board games they possess and the tablet on the bed.

{This should keep you guys busy in the meantime.}

{What about you?} Bonny asked.

{What I want to do at the moment is either illegal or against master's values, so… I'm just gonna stay here and curse the world until I get bored.}

{...Okay.}

With Bonny taking the tablet and laying on the bed, Sally and May got on the ground with one board game and assembled it there.

~POVC~

Outside, Max was roaming the streets, mumbling swears and complaints while not knowing where he was going. He went like that for a while until he came across the park in the town. It's moments like that that he was happy that as soon as a town or city reaches a certain amount of citizens, they are obligated to have a park within it. Passing along a couple of humans and pokemon, he spotted a wooden bench and sat on it, not far from a big kids' playground, where he got lost in his thoughts, mostly thinking about Dusk. What does she have? Is it dangerous? Is it curable? Why now? Those questions and many more were shouting in his head like a broken record. After a while, he tried to lay off those thoughts for a few minutes by looking up. Instantly, Max got scared when he noticed that a female indeedee had sat next to him.

"Holy…" Max exclaimed in a stupor.

{Oh… Did I scare you?} The pokemon asked with a soulless kind-of type of voice, not even looking at him.

Besides being slightly taller than the average indeedee, her fur was very dark, almost black.

"Well… a little."

{...I'm sorry, then.}

"It's okay. I was just not expecting someone to appear next to me out of nowhere." Max said, without receiving any answer. "But…" He continued, briefly looking around. "Of all places, why sit next to me? There are a few other empty benches nearby."

{If my presence really disturbs you, I'll just leave and sit alone somewhere else.}

"No no. It's okay. I was just wondering. Better you than a human, you know. Hehe." Max laughed nervously, with the indeedee not reacting at all.

{...I've always been attracted to depressed-looking individuals, so I guess I unconsciously get near for that reason.}

"Ah. I see. I look like shit, don't I?"

{You seem like you saw better days, that's for sure.}

"Yeah. Let's say that it's not a good day, indeed."

{Hmpf. At least you didn't do the stupid pun.}

"The pun? Which one?"

{Saying indeedeed instead of indeed.}

"...*chuckle* That's not a bad one."

{I've heard it too many times now. It's getting really tiresome.}

"I bet. Anyway, you don't seem surprised that I can understand you."

{You're not the first one I met that can do that. You're rare, but not unique.}

"Yeah. The more I travel, the more I meet pokemon that are used to that." Max shared before a short silence settled. "Anyway, are you a wild pokemon that seeks company, or…"

{Not really. I'm just accompanying my owner and her daughter here.}

"Your owner?"

{The one with the white sweater and tight black jeans.}

Looking forward, Max scanned the playground and spotted said woman, who was giving instructions to a kid.

"I see. You're living with them."

{She's all alone to raise that child, so yeah, I'm lending a hand.}

"That's sweet of you."

{She saved me from certain death, so it's the least I can do.}

"Really? What happened?"

{A few years ago, we discovered a tumor in my brain. If it wasn't for Wanda, I would be dead by now. It was an expensive operation, but I survived and she didn't hesitate to pay the price.}

"Whoa! That was very nice and noble of her."

{Yes. I owe her my life, even though I'm not as useful as I used to be.}

"How so?"

{Despite being curable, the tumor had spread extensively in my brain, affecting a lot of tissue. I'm alive, but I can't use psychic abilities anymore.}

"...No way. For real?!"

{That was the price to survive. Since then, I'm trying to help as much as I can despite my handicap.}

"... Damn… I hope Dusk…" Max said before stopping.

{...Who's Dusk?}

"...One of my companions. Dusk is my delphox and… she's sick and it's kind of why I'm having that long face. Recently, she lost control over her psychic powers and attacked us. The nurse said there was something wrong with her brain, but after hearing your story, I'm even more worried."

The indeedee wasn't sure what to say at the moment and looked at Max dropping his head on his hands.

{...You know, it's very unlikely to be a problem like mine. A tumor is a silent killer and from what you've said, her problem isn't. To me, it seems to be a simple mutation that went a bit wrong.}

"A bit wrong? Is it… bad?"

{Depends on the intensity, but mostly, if taken care of quickly, it shouldn't.}

"Really?"

{Well, I'm not an expert, but from what I've learned here and there…}

"*sigh* I'm a little bit reassured. Thanks."

{Don't mention it. I wish good fortune for your companions.}

"Thanks. I also hope that she gets better soon. She's already so scared to be a burden all the time, so if she doesn't, I can't even start to imagine how worse it's gonna be."

{A little life lesson I learned throughout these past years is to try to push the pessimistic thoughts aside as much as possible. It's not good for your mental health.}

"I know. I'm being told that all the time. It's just… not that easy to change strong patterns like those."

{Working on yourself can take years or your entire life. You just have to try to not give up. Well, I say that, but I'm not sure I can really lecture someone else about that. I still find losing my psychic powers unfair. I mean, what's a psychic-type pokemon without its abilities?}

Max then pondered for a short moment.

"Eh. I don't know, since I'm not a pokemon. However, what I do know is that pokemon are incredible and amazing. Unlike us, humans, you have pretty much infinite potential. Sure, losing psychic abilities must suck, but knowing how freaking resourceful a pokemon can be, I'm convinced that there's a way for you to pull it through somehow."

{...Hm. You seem to hold pokemon in very high esteem. Some could say that you overestimate us.}

"So far, none managed to prove me wrong. I've been with my girls for almost two years now and they never cease to surprise me, whether it's for combat or not."

The indeedee then looked at Max.

{...Your companions seem to be exceptional.}

"They are. They always manage to… pull through stuff. Always."

{Should it not be the same for Dusk?}

"...Of course. She's…"

For a moment, Max was about to get emotional but managed to contain it.

"She's strong. There's no doubt about it."

Suddenly, Max stood up.

"Thanks. It was nice speaking with you. Eh. It's crazy how randomly you can find answers."

{...Yeah…}

"...You have the chance to be a pokemon." Max started while walking away. "Surely not being able to use psychic abilities won't stop you from being a strong and accomplished pokemon. You just have to believe in yourself a little more. You guys are unstoppable."

Concluding with that, Max resumed his walk through the park. He made a couple of steps before going off-road and went further in the bushes and trees of the park to be at peace. There, he released his zoroark.

"Sorry, Luna. I almost forgot about you."

{It's okay. You seemed pretty preoccupied, so I understand.}

"Eh. Quick to notice things, as usual."

{From what I can see, it must be quite bad.}

"You can say that. It's Dusk. She's… sick."

{Oh no. What's the problem?}

"We don't know yet, but her psychic powers went wild yesterday, and lost control. We brought her to a pokemon center for examination. No need to say that I'm very worried about her."

{I see. No need to apologize, then. Dusk is strong. She will recover and be back on her feet in no time. You'll see.}

"Yeah. I really hope so. Anyway, are you hungry? We're back in BoonTown, so maybe I can get you something. What would you like?"

{Hm… I'm not sure. Anything would do, I guess.}

"Alright. I know you want to be alone and we're in a city, but I figured you needed some fresh air, so I tried to get us as isolated as possible."

{...I shouldn't be surprised that you know that.}

"You shouldn't, indeed." Max confirmed with a smile. "Gonna look around. Behave in the meantime." He wished before turning to leave.

{...Hem… L-Little pup?}

"Hm?" Max hummed, stopping to look at Luna.

{Actually… I… don't mind… some… company.} She shared, oddly shyer than usual.

"...You don't?"

Looking away, Luna scratched the back of her head in slight nervousness.

"I don't mind at all. Quite the surprising request, though."

{It must be, but… you know, I've been thinking a lot lately, and… there are things I need to know or be sure about. I… need to pull out some tests, to say it simply.}

"I see. I'm not sure which kind, but I'll do my best to be up for those."

{You don't have anything to do. Just… be yourself, please.}

"It shouldn't be that hard." Max chuckled.

Smiling herself, Luna changed into her human appearance and joined Max to his side.

"Was it really necessary?" Max asked as both began to walk down the brick road of the park.

{No, but you never know. We have a better chance of being left alone if I don't show up as a monstrously big zoroark.}

"Fair enough. And you're not monstrous, just a big girl. Just saying."

{Hehe. I tend to forget that you don't see much of a difference between the two.}

"I'm sorry, but I do. One being..."

For a while, both walked side-by-side. After leaving the park, they wandered in the city while chit-chatting about everything and nothing in particular. Luna was a bit more talkative than usual, and since they met, it was the first time that Max heard Luna sharing her opinions on some subjects. However, a certain distance was still palpable as they were discussing.

"Hehe. That's a side of you I didn't expect."

{Well, you know, I'm not the kind to share too much about myself with anyone, so…}

"I feel you. I just hope I'm not a mere 'anyone' to you now."

{If it was the case, would we be talking like we are at the moment?}

"Hehe. I guess not." Max replied before a short pause. "But you know, Luna, I really enjoy our time together and our discussion. With you, I feel like I could say anything about anything and you wouldn't judge me. I know what you're gonna say, and yes, it's the same with the others. It's just… more meaningful with you."

{Very nice to hear, thanks. But that's not what I was about to say.}

"Oh. What was it, then?"

{That your zipper is down.}

"Shit! Really!?" Max exclaimed in fear, looking down his pants.

To his discontentment, he saw that everything was fine.

"Luna…" Max scolded, looking at the zoroark, who had already trouble containing a laugh.

{Hihi! Gotcha.} The dark-type pokemon said, amused.

"I hate you." Max retorted, going slightly red.

{Hihi. You're a bad liar. I know you love me.}

"True. You're way too endearing. In your own way."

{In my own way? What is that supposed to mean?}

"That only I can endure your personality."

{...Is that so?}

"Of course not! Haha. Gotcha." Max said, nudging her sides.

{Hihi. A bit impish, aren't you?} Luna said, briefly tickling his neck with her hidden claws.

"You fished for it."

{I admit that I did.}

Then, Max noticed that they were passing in front of a rather fancy restaurant a moment later and stopped.

{Something wrong?} Luna asked, stopping as well not far from him.

"You know, it's been a while since we went on a 'date', you and I. Now could be a good moment to remedy that."

{...Are you sure? It doesn't seem very pokemon friendly.}

"As long as you keep your appearance and talk softly, we should be fine. Unless some humans scare you."

At that, Luna raised an eyebrow.

"Not very effective, ain't it?"

{Not at all.} Luna confirmed with hands on hips.

"Hehe. It was a good try. Someday, I'll be scarier than you."

{Hihi. Keep dreaming, little one.}

"You bet I will." Max finished before both entered the building.

Luckily, they quickly got assigned to their table.

"Wow. That's quite the snobbish restaurant. I can already hear some boasting about their success and money that no one gives a fuck about."

{Why choose this one, then?}

"Because no matter how haughty this place, the food is sure to be lavish. And like the others, you simply deserve the best."

{Really?} Luna replied while smiling, elegantly resting her head on one of her hands. {I'm honored.}

"You better be." Max jested with a smile of his.

At that moment, a waiter came by to give them the menu.

"Welcome." The waiter greeted them. "A glass of water?"

"No thanks. I'm fine." Max answered.

To not talk, Luna just shook her head.

"Alright. I'll be back when you're ready."

"Thanks." Max said before the waiter left. "Okay. Let's see what we have here."

Since she only knows the basics but can't read properly, Luna just looked at Max looking at the menu. Normally, Max didn't love being stared at without any reason, but it was Luna, so it was tolerable. Also, he could never have enough of her scary but bewitching eyes.

"Still nothing in mind?"

{Not really. I'm trusting you in choosing something I like.}

"Alright."

It took a short moment for Max to choose what to take and drop the menu.

{So? What will it be?}

"Hehe. How about we play the surprise game?"

{Oh. You're really bringing the big games. Are you trying to seduce me?} Luna asked playfully.

"I don't know. I may or may not try to. Juuust being myself here."

{Hihi. You surely do.}

For a moment, both then looked at each other in the eyes.

"...You know, Luna. I really like this kind of date with you."

{Is that so? Am I that pleasant to be with?}

"Well, yeah, but not only. Can this… stay between us?"

{Sure. If you think it's not a bad thing to hide it from the others.}

"No. Not really. You know, if it wasn't for her disdain to look human, it could be the same with Scarlet, but I like going out with you in your human appearance. Don't get me wrong, I absolutely love my life with you girls and what we do, but sometimes, I wonder how it would be to be… normal. To blend in. Being together like this is the closest it can be for me."

{Why would you want that? There's no shame in being different.}

"It depends, but yeah, I mostly agree. It's just… sometimes I wish I could be myself in the open. Being what I am… very few understand that. And if I want a minimum of quality of life, I have to keep some information to myself, you know."

{...I think I understand. I'm no human, but I try to get in your shoes.}

"But it doesn't happen often, rest assured."

{...Well, I-}

"Have you made your choice?" The waiter asked, now back.

"Ah, yes." Max said, grabbing back the menu.

He opened it and pointed at a meal with a finger while showing it to him.

"I would like that twice, but I want to surprise the lady."

"...Good choice." The waiter replied with a tiny smile, taking back both the menu on the table before leaving.

{...The least we can say is that you have no 'normal' relationship with envy. From the time I passed amongst humans, I saw many kinds of relationships. Some were good, but a lot weren't that enviable. Mutual respect and care weren't always present. Some were fighting over who was wearing the pants, and others were just unhealthy relationships because one didn't want to be alone. You may be a pokephile, but it goes beyond that. You care and take time for the ones you love. Your polygamy wouldn't please a lot of people, yet, you manage to be present for everyone. At the expense of yourself a little sometimes, but still.}

"That's a sacrifice that I'm willing to make. Since I can't be everywhere at the same time, I have to take a bit of my own time to be there for everyone. That's the only downside, but I don't care. I don't regret my choices."

{Good point. Anyway, no matter who or what you love, the most important thing is how you love. Humans, pokemon… Who cares about that if you love them all the same? And that, it's something that most humans can't even rival with you. Don't envy those who are worse than you.}

"...I don't know. It makes sense, but it all comes back to having a quality of life. I could be refused many services if my orientation was known. I don't even know if I would be allowed to be a pokemon trainer. And honestly, I'm not sure I want to know anyway. Heck, maybe we wouldn't be allowed to be here."

Luna then stared at Max for a few seconds.

{...I understand how you feel, but is it really that important? I'm not that materialistic, so it's not me that it would bother.}

"I'm sorry, Luna, but it would bother me. I want to be able to pamper you girls from time to time."

{There are many ways of doing that without the need for others' approval.}

"If there is, I don't know them, so I stick to what I'm used to."

{...*sigh* I shouldn't forget that humans are more materialistic than pokemon.}

"I hope it's not a criticism, because, unlike pokemon, humans had to resort to that to survive. We don't have superpowers or immortality or whatever. Tools, shelters, clothing, weapons, technology… Without all of that and more, our race would probably be extinct right now. So yeah, it's something that we have trouble giving up on easily."

{I… I'm sorry.} Luna apologized, feeling bad. {I didn't want to mock or belittle anything.}

"*sigh* No, it's me. You're trying to help and I got upset a little. I'm sorry. I don't want to ruin that crucial moment."

{Hihi.} Luna giggled. {It's gonna take a little bit more than that to ruin our date. Aggressively debating isn't something I get angry over that easily.}

"Hehe. Is there something that bothers you in life?"

{Actually, more than you think, but somehow, you manage to never bring any of them. If you did, I probably forgot about it.}

"I hope," Max said with a tiny smile. "But understand me, Luna. The faces the girls make when I bake them puffins, bring them to the spa, or buy them things they really enjoy. Making them happy is what drives me now, and that's the only way I know how."

{...}

"Unfortunately, we live in a world where if you want to be happy, even a little, there are things you must keep to yourself."

{...I guess.}

"I'm very sorry. I know it may clash a little with your beliefs, but… I just can't. I can't deny the girls a happy and fulfilled life. You included."

{I understand, don't worry.}

"Look me in the eyes and tell me you don't like being pampered like now? I dare you." Max challenged playfully.

{...Hmpf. You got me.} Luna admitted, putting her second hand under her chin with a smile. {Anyway, there's no way I'll be able to change your mind.}

"You bet you can't."

{Hehe. That authenticity of yours… That's the thing I love about you.} She shared with seductive eyes.

"Well, that's the thing I love about you, girls; I don't have to be fake. Anyway, where would be the trust if we were to lie to each other?"

{Indeed.}

Shortly after, their meal arrived.

"There you go. Have a good meal." The waiter wished while giving them their plates.

"Thanks." Max said before looking at Luna. "There it is. Duck and pork stew, with the duck being your favorite meat. Well, your second since you don't eat your true favorite one much anymore."

Luna then looked at Max a bit suspiciously.

"Don't look at me like that. I know that your favorite meat is rabbit, but because of Bonny and Sally, you unconsciously become more reluctant to eat rabbits."

{...How… do you know that? I never said anything about that.} Luna asked, a bit surprised.

"You taught me to be observant. Looks like it paid off a little."

A bit embarrassed, Luna looked away.

"That's really cute to see that despite your appearance or attitude, you're a softie."

{...Quit it.} The zoroark commanded, looking quite flustered.

"Hehe. What are you ashamed of? It makes me love you even more."

{...It's not something I want others to know about. Not for the reasons you may think, but… more about my inability to dissociate Bonny and Sally from an actual rabbit. The last time I tried to eat one, I couldn't remove the image of both of them.}

"It's normal if you really like them. I too have trouble eating rabbit and fox meat. If nothing else, I'll eat it, but I try to avoid it now. Even though Dusk assured me that she doesn't feel bad when I enjoy fox meat. But, you know…"

{Yeah…}

"Anyway, what are we waiting for? Let's dig in before it gets cold."

With another smile, Luna started to eat her meal as well as Max. Since they were talking almost non-stop, the meal and date lasted for quite a while. When they noticed that they had finished their plate a moment ago, Max paid the bill and both headed outside.

"Damn. That was good." Max commented.

{You were right. Fancy restaurants often mean nice food.}

"I know, right? That stew was divine. But for a moment, I thought you didn't like it. You really took your time to eat your plate."

{When I eat something tasty, I like to make it last for as long as possible.}

"I don't know how you do it. When I do eat something nice, I can't control myself and stuff myself as fast as possible."

{Hehe. A male with a ferocious appetite isn't that bad of a thing. I know a few girls that like it, actually.} Luna shared with a tiny smirk.

"You don't say. They are so eager to make me eat their 'meat'. But hey, one can't simply resist their seductive games."

{Within two years, they had plenty of time to know how to exploit your flaws.}

"Haha. Yeah. They know too well what I like and not."

{Hihi.}

"So? What now?"

Luna then looked at Max with a slightly concerned face.

{...I really enjoyed our date, but… I think I'm gonna stay alone for a moment.}

"I see. I should consider myself lucky with how long you stayed until now."

{I'm sorry if you had other plans.}

"Nah, it's okay. I didn't have any at all, so no biggie. I know how important Luna's time is."

{Hihi. I guess I was worried for nothing.}

"But… I hope you enjoyed that moment with me. And… I hope I had a good score on those tests of yours."

Sighing, Luna smiled rather widely before slightly leaning forward, close to Max's face, and gently grabbing his chin.

{I don't know yet if you have a score high enough to pass, but right now, I can already tell that you have a good one.} She told him with seductive eyes.

After kissing Max on the cheek, Luna straightened her back.

{See you later, handsome.} Luna said with a warm smile, waving at him before walking away.

Until she was out of sight, Max looked at her and enjoyed her human form a little before starting to walk in the opposite direction.

(Well, I believe it went well.) Max thought. (Who knows, maybe she will get very affectionate like the others. Haha. Keep dreaming, me. That would be cute, but her aloof side has its own charm.)

For a while, Max kept walking through the city until he began to miss his girls.

"Maybe I should get back to them." He mumbled.

Since he wasn't in a rush, he kept walking in a specific direction until he recognized a place he walked before to situate himself better to get back to the hotel. Strangely, the more Max was walking, the more he was thinking about Scarlet and wanted to see her. After a while, he stopped in front of a workout gym.

"Huh? Is she in there? Why would she?"

Sensing her presence inside, Max proceeded through the glass doors. Like any other workout gym, some machines could be seen being used in the background with an employee behind a counter.

"Hi." Max greeted the man after getting to the counter. "Is it possible that a certain gardevoir came in here?"

"A gardevoir? Wait, are you her trainer?"

"You can say that, yes."

"...Okay." The man replied, looking at Max a bit funnily. "She's in the boxing section."

"Okay. Thanks for your professionalism." Max said sarcastically before turning to get further.

"Not so fast. You have to pay your entrance fee."

"Why? I'm just getting in to get her and leave right after."

"Not the first time I heard that. No money, no get-in."

"Are you serious?"

"...Well, actually, no. I was just messing with you. You're free to go."

"...Ookay." Max expressed, really confused by the dude.

As he was wondering what he could have been smoking, Max followed his instinct and arrived at the boxing section, away from the entrance. When there, he saw Scarlet in a corner, still in her green appearance, as usual, aggressively and loudly beating up a punching bag. Around her were a couple of humans, some doing their businesses while most were staring at the gardevoir.

"What's wrong guys? Never seen a strong girl beating a bag senselessly before?" Max expressed while going towards the gardevoir, briefly catching everyone's attention.

As he was getting closer to Scarlet, some began to whisper between themselves.

"Wow." Max engaged the gardevoir, impressed at how the bag was flying around. "What did that bag ever do to you?" He jested.

Suddenly, Scarlet stopped and immobilized the bag, panting a little.

{It exists.} Scarlet replied.

"Oh, proceed then."

{In a minute.} She replied, materializing a small towel to wipe the sweat off of her body. {I've been punching that thing for almost half an hour non-stop now, so I'll take a breather.}

"I see. Something that you want to talk about?"

{Not really, actually. I just needed to vent a little. Physically attacking something is a better cool-off than any special attack.}

"Yeah. Anger has a close relationship with the physical muscles."

{More or less, yes.} Scarlet said, making the towel disappear when she was done.

"Did it belong to someone here?"

{Maybe. Who cares? There will be just one lucky bastard here that will have female pheromones all over his shit.}

"Hehe. Since when did you become that generous?"

{Since never. I was just sweaty and it was gross.}

Since he arrived, Max tried to be goofy a little to amuse her. However, it didn't seem very effective, with Scarlet even sounding a bit mad. Quickly, Scarlet became aware that he noticed.

{Sorry if I sound grumpy, but there's just a bit too much on my mind at the moment.}

"I know. Now that I'm here, we can talk this out."

{*sigh* I suppose so.} Scarlet conceded, resting her back against the punching bag, facing the other humans, who were still whispering. {Tsk. I'm really about to rip everyone's tongue here.}

"Don't. That would just be a complete waste of time and energy."

{Hmpf. If you knew what they were mumbling about like little bitches. Yeah, that's right. Keep your eyes low, assholes.}

"Come on, now. None even deserve that you spit on them. They are not worthy of the holy Scarlet's saliva."

{...Hehe. Damn right, they don't.}

Scarlet then looked at Max with loving eyes.

{I love you, Master.}

"Oh, and why is that? Because I say stupid shit?"

{Yes, and also that you almost always manage to make me laugh when I don't feel well. It's worth more than any treasure in this world.}

"Well, in that case, glad to be of help, then." Max replied, making Scarlet smile widely. "So? What gave you the need to get inside a human place just to punch a bag?"

{*sigh*...I can't help but feel a bit responsible for Dusk's state. Not only did I make her pass her limit too often, but I also didn't notice anything about her condition. As a friend, it should have been obvious. Eh, what a friend…}

"Typical from a living being; Always trying to find a culprit to explain or justify what is happening. None is responsible, and neither are you. We could also blame me for not doing my job properly as a trainer, but it happened so suddenly… who could have guessed anything?"

{...}

"Who could have known what would've happened if you made Dusk work just like everyone else? Who knows, maybe making her lose control made whatever her problem happen faster, thus, making us able to diagnose and heal faster."

{Tss. You're trying too hard, now.} Scarlet mocked playfully.

"Can anyone blame me for that?"

{Hehe. Probably not.} Scarlet laughed lightly. {...Still…} She added before going a bit absentminded.

Not sure what to add, Max looked around, with a few looking away when he did so.

"You know what? How about we both vent off for real?"

{What do you have in mind?} The gardevoir asked, curious.

"We have the place and materials, so why don't we do some boxing sparring?"

{...Seriously? You want to get into a fistfight with me?}

"Haha. Don't overestimate yourself too much. I could kick your ass if I really wanted to."

Scarlet then looked at Max with a raised eyebrow.

{...So that's how it's gonna be, huh? Alright, if you think you can withstand a beating, then so be it.} Scarlet said, answering to his provocation.

"Great. Let's put on some gloves and get into that ring." Max said, heading towards the ring in the middle of the room, shortly followed by Scarlet.

When both were there, they chose some gloves that were laying around. After choosing a pair, which was a little smaller than Scarlet's, Max felt something poking his shoulder and looked. He then saw Scarlet handing him head protection.

"...Why?" Max asked while putting on one glove.

{For your safety. I don't want you to risk a concussion.}

"Oh, nice of you. What about you?"

{I don't need it.}

Max then looked at Scarlet with a slightly annoyed face.

"...I don't need it either, then."

{Tsk. Don't be such a baby and put it on.}

Ignoring her, Max kept putting on his gloves.

{...*sigh* Fine. I'll put one on as well.}

"...You can be quite insensitive, sometimes," Max said before taking the head protection.

{I'm sorry. Geez.} Scarlet complained with rolling eyes.

After Scarlet helped Max put on his last glove, both went inside the ring. While doing so, they attracted more attention.

{Remember, it was your idea.}

"Sure thing. That way, you won't regret anything once I defeat you."

{Ah. You may be sexy as fuck, but still too skinny to stand against me in terms of raw power.}

"If you have fun believing that. By the way, that thing on your head looks actually nice. You just look very slightly ridiculous."

With a smirk, Scarlet's eyes briefly glowed blue and a ring could be heard, meaning the round har started.

"Good luck." Max wished, raising a fist in the air.

{Yeah. Good luck. You're gonna need it.} Scarlet replied, fist bumping him.

As soon as the glove stopped making contact, Max went for a sucker punch and tried to hook Scarlet on the head at amazing speed. But before he could touch, Scarlet was already raising an arm and blocking him.

{Eh. So predictable.} Scarlet said with a proud smile.

Instantly, the gardevoir tried to counter-attack with an uppercut. Seeing it coming, Max moved his head backward, dodging the hit.

"And so are you." Max retorted, almost as proudly as Scarlet.

Then, both did a single backjump to create some distance. Staring at each other, they dashed forward at the same time and began one of the most intense fights this gym has probably ever seen. Right off the bat, strong and fast punches were raining, but all were either blocked or dodged. The aggressiveness of the fight attracted even more attention, with some now next to the ring, looking at them. Some were impressed by the intensity, while some, not so much.

"Pfft. Rookies. They're gonna exhaust themselves by going all out at the very start." One of them mumbled.

"That's something, though." One next to him said. "I never saw a gardevoir strike that hard and a guy move that fast. He's very reactive."

"Not for long at that pace."

For almost three minutes, Scarlet and Max tried to hit the other non-stop, with no one succeeding so far. Then, after the third minute, Max was the first one to touch, even though it was Scarlet's chest.

"Haha. First blood." Max jested, both stopping momentarily.

{Don't get over-excited. It wasn't even a vital point.}

"Who cares? I'm not trying to kill you."

{Well, you better change your strategy, because I do.} The gardevoir told him before quickly launching herself at Max, going for a powerful hook to the side.

Even though he blocked, the hit was quite impactful, with Max feeling the strength behind it. Scarlet then went for another hook to the head, but changed trajectory at the last second and went for his liver. Not having seen it coming, Max took the hit, cutting his breath and making him retreat whole holding his side.

{That's how it's done.} Scarlet taunted, slightly dancing on her legs.

"Fuck… you…" Max said hardly.

{Come on. Get up. I know it takes more than that to put you down.}

"...Alright…" Max replied, straightening his back with slight difficulty. "Don't you come crying after I break something."

{Come and get me, you pansy.} Scarlet taunted some more.

After a few more breaths, Max rushed at Scarlet and exchanged a few hits again. After more blocks and dodges, Max managed to dodge and deviate one of Scarlet's punches, allowing him to face her side and throwing a cross on her jaw. The hit made her back away and stunned her a little, having to grab the ring ropes to not fall. She then glared at Max.

"You were saying?" Max provoked.

{...Hehe. Now it's getting interesting.} She said after licking her lips with an unhealthy grin.

Using the rope's momentum, Scarlet charged at Max and turned on the machine. The hits were violent and swift, most being blocked and dodged while a few were landing here and there. The more the fight was going on, the more attention they were attracting. After a while, more than half of the people present were around the ring. None were believing it. For more than half an hour now, they were fighting like enraged dogs without taking any breaks, only allowing themselves to breathe for a few seconds every now and then. They were now at their fortieth minute when both noticed their tiredness getting over and messing with their gameplay rhythm. Sensing the end of the fight getting near, both went for their ultimate punch, putting everything left on their fist.

*Klam*

Both went for a cross finisher with both attacks landing on each other's faces. While Scarlet had more power left, Max had a better reach, balancing the power of both hits equally. Both got dizzy and fell on their back side-by-side, with Max momentarily losing track of where he was while everything was spinning for Scarlet.

"...I… win." Max said after a moment with the crowd slowly dissipating.

{What are you talking about? I won an hour ago.}

"What? We just dropped down a few seconds ago."

{...Really?}

"Yeah."

Then, both exchanged a light laugh for a short moment.

{It's incredible. To knock a pokemon down… You became very strong.} Scarlet praised, looking at the ceiling.

"You're not a physical specialist pokemon, so does it count?"

{Yes, it does.} Scarlet affirmed.

"..."

{You may be on the ground, but today, it's your win, Max.}

"Eh. So you're giving it to me?"

{Why not? You deserve it.}

"Hehe. Thanks, I guess." Max said, sitting up. "How do you feel?"

Sighing lightly, Scarlet sat up as well. {Well… Oh no.} She said upon seeing Max's face. {Your nose's bleeding.}

"Really?" Max replied, touching under his nose and feeling something wet. "Oh. I am bleeding." He added, seeing red on his finger. "But it mustn't be worse than your left eye. It's a bit inflated."

{I know.} The gardevoir answered, briefly touching her black eye. {But it's not important. Let's check that you're okay first.} She continued before standing up, helping Max do the same right after.

As soon as they were up, Scarlet's hands glowed in blue energy and moved them all around his body.

{Hm… Beside your nose and… a few displaced ribs, you're fine. Great. You really took my punches like a champ.} She praised before starting to use Healing Pulse.

"If you were going full power, that is."

While healing him, Scarlet looked at Max funnily.

{I was over ninety percent, for sure. Maybe ninety-five.}

"You're kidding, right?"

{Is it really that surprising? Personally, nothing astonishing here.}

"Come on, now. I know you're a gardevoir, but you're a physically strong one. No way you used ninety percent and that I'm still in one piece. You can shatter boulders with your strength."

{No I can't. Maybe you're confusing me with Bonny or the others, but I'm not that strong.}

"Bullshit. I already saw you do that."

{...Hihi. Alright, I've been found out. I was just trying to encourage you a little.} Scarlet admitted, done healing Max completely.

"With lies?"

{Yes.}

"Haha. Fuck you, love."

{Hihi. To say the truth, you made me go near fifty percent, which is something you can be proud of regardless, master.}

"That's more realistic." Max said, with Scarlet replying with a warm smile. "You should heal too, now."

{In a moment. First, I want to know how you feel now. Did hitting a girl in the face help you vent your anger off a little?}

"Haha. A girl, no, but you, yes." Max joked.

{Glad to hear.}

"I'm still worried and a bit scared about not knowing what to expect, but our little fight helped me evacuate a bit of that stress."

{Yeah. Same here. It reminded us that the best way to deal with stress is to have a little bit of fun.}

"No matter the kind, huh?" Max pointed out, briefly looking at one of his gloves."

{Yes, as long as it's not very life-threatening.}

"Very? So a little life-threatening is okay?"

{Where will the fun be, then?}

"Haha! You crazy bitch. I love you so much." Max replied, standing up. "As soon as I got those off and made a little detour to the bathroom, we should get back to the others."

After Max removed his helmet, Scarlet helped him get rid of his gloves before removing her own apparel.

"Hey, you." A man from behind called, catching both's attention. "I heard about your fight. Ever thought about being a professional boxer? You could be a beast."

The man was rather buff and was seemingly working here.

"A few times, in my youth, but I didn't have the power and energy I have today. However, I moved on a long time ago and chose a different path. My goal now is to become the best pokemon trainer."

"The best pokemon trainer, huh… I haven't heard such words in a long time."

"I had many interests in my life, but the only one that always stayed is my passion for pokemon." Max explained, looking at Scarlet.

"I see. It's a shame, but I respect that. Good luck with that, then." The man said before leaving.

{...Wow. You didn't just impress me it seems.} Scarlet teased with a smirk.

"Whatever."

Max was about to take a step, but stopped and looked at Scarlet.

{What?}

"Are you healing?"

Sighing with rolling eyes, Scarlet used Recover, healing any bruises or injuries she may have.

{Happy?} The Gardevoir asked, hands on hips.

"Very."

After leaving the ring, Max went towards the shower rooms, where the toilets were.

"Wait here. I won't be long." Max told Scarlet before entering.

Besides seemingly having someone under a running shower, the room was empty. After taking a cabin, he closed the door and did what he had to do. When done, he flushed and turned, but got scared by Scarlet, who was standing behind him.

"Sc-"

To stop him from making any sound, Scarlet quickly placed a hand over his mouth and pushed him on the toilet seat before sitting on him.

[Keep it down, master. You wouldn't want anyone finding out that you have the hots for a pokemon, do you?] She said telepathically with lustful eyes.

[Seriously? Here?]

[Sorry, but I can't wait anymore. And besides, this place is as good as anywhere else.] She explained while gently rubbing her womanhood against him.

[Well, a few details seemed to have-]

[Who cares?!] Scarlet cut before going for a passionate kiss.

[...You and your unfair arguments.] Max complained after she broke the kiss.

[Gonna cry?] She nagged playfully before kissing him some more, quickly changing into making out.

As things were heating up, Max failed to notice that Scarlet used her powers to free his hard manhood and only got aware of that when it touched her warm pelvis. Breaking the kiss, Scarlet then looked at him with a mischievous grin before slightly getting higher and inserting Max's rod inside herself.

{Ghnn!} Scarlet vocalized softly with clenched teeth, containing a pleasured moan.

"Ho-"

Again, to shut him up, Scarlet pressed her hand against his mouth.

{Shh…} She hushed softly with a finger on her lips.

Immediately, Scarlet initiated the intercourse and began by slowly riding Max. Luckily, the gardevoir was able to keep her voice down, making even her breathing more silent. With her eyes half closed, she kept an eye on Max, for both entertainment, and to make sure that he was staying quiet. With tiny mischievous grins, she was also trying to make things harder for him by contracting as much as she could. She was about to speed things up but did the opposite when they heard a few dudes entering the room, speaking and laughing loudly. At this moment, Scarlet pressed her hand even harder a little, now a few kilopascals away from hurting him. Even so, she didn't stop her riding and contractions.

"...Anyway, that dude, though." One of them said as they were in front of the lockers.

"Which one?" Another one asked.

"The dude with the gardevoir."

"Ah. Yeah. For a wimp, he sure pulls his own weight."

"Please. He just punched a gardevoir, one of those pokemon that a human can easily outpower physically. He had energy and cardio, I'll give him that, but still."

"I don't know, man. That gardevoir was quite muscular. Well, not really, but for a species that is excessively skinny, she was."

"Tss. How much do you bet that he makes his pokemon train like hell just so she could look more 'human' and fuck her."

"Okay, now you're just being a bit paranoid… and gross."

"Are you sure? Think about it; Why would a guy want a pokemon that looks so human and feminine in the first place? Besides, the gardevoir is a female-only species, so just do the math, dude."

"Not necessarily. I have a friend that had a gardevoir once, and they never did it."

"Can you provide proof that he wasn't lying?"

"Well… not physically, but he always has been against pokephilia, so why would he do that?"

"It might have been just a cover, man. Anyway, if you guys had noticed how they looked at each other, you would probably think the same. Pretty sure they are going at it right now. Eurk! Just thinking about it gives me stomach aches."

"Then just don't think about it. You're just hurting yourself."

"Yeah, I should. It just annoys me, man. When you're too much of a loser to get real women that you have to resort to gross stuff… This society is out of control, I tell you."

As Max and Scarlet were smiling in amusement, the gardevoir had to resist the urge to burst the door open just to annoy those idiots. Quickly, their mind got fully back to the job at hand. Scarlet kept a steady pace until the other humans were done and out. When so, she sped up things a bit and even increased Max's sensitivity. She liked the moment but didn't want to necessarily stay there for too long. She gauged her lover's sensitivity to synchronize their orgasm, which arrived a couple of minutes later. As both were getting all stiff, they did their best to make no sound, as the guy under the shower was done, rendering the room silent.

[Phew! That was good. I needed that, especially after someone turned me on so much.] Scarlet mentioned while panting slightly.

[What did I do? We just punched each other.]

[You know the answer too well; You being you is enough to make me go crazy.]

[*sigh* There's not much I can do, then.]

[Hihi. Nope.] Scarlet inquired while hugging Max. [Well, besides kneeling before me and worshipping my beauty and forbearance, that is.]

[Yeah, keep dreaming, your highness.]

[Ooh!] Scarlet expressed, slightly shaking. [Hearing that word always makes me have goosebumps.] She said while breaking the hug.

[Let's just go before your superiority complex gets us in trouble.] Max said after rolling his eyes.

[Hehe. Alright.] Scarlet conceded before kissing him.

บท 109: Emotional Fallout

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บท 109: Emotional Fallout

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