p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"Last time on Total Pokemon Galaxy Games, our contestants competed in a balancing challenge. But in the end, Whimsicott was disqualified and Ursaring was sent home, becoming the first member of the jury. 10 are left, who will be eliminated next? Find out today./strong/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"As the moon rose over the night sky, some of the contestants were still awake. One of which was Empoleon and Meowstic, who finished their little thing a while ago and were just resting for a bit./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Felt nice didn't it?" Empoleon asked./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Meowstic smiled. "Yeah, I didn't expect to have that kind of passionate moment with you at this point in time. But it felt amazing."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Empoleon smiled back. "I'm glad to hear that. You've certainly come a long way since we first met. You barely talked to anyone on our team, but now you are not only leading an alliance but you found someone in this game that you are spending a personal moment with romantically. Did you ever imagine that would happen?"/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""No, I didn't. I thought I would be an early boot, I had doubt in myself…" He then grabbed Empoleon's hand and his smile widened. "Then I met you. You gave me that confidence I thought I didn't have, you cheered me on when no one else would, when I was scared to try new things you were there to help me along. You made me a better person Empoleon and I don't ever want to forget about you."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Empoleon gripped his hand in response. "I'm happy you were able to change because of me Meowstic. But don't sell yourself short, you made an impact on me during our time together. When I first joined this game, I thought I would just find some new people to call friends. I didn't expect to fall in love with someone who had similar interests in swimming like me, nor did I expect to get this personal with someone from the game. You may not have changed my life in the same way I did to you, but you certainly made this game more exciting for me. I don't want to forget about you Meowstic, so I won't. Because regardless of if either of us win or lose, I will still be there for you. If not physically, then over the phone back home. Even if you think this is a potential showmance, I-"/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"But before she could finish her sentence, Meowstic kissed her on the lips. "I don't want a showmance Empoleon, I want to be in a relationship with you past this game. I want to hold your hand outside of the show, I want to give you that hug when you're down, I want to try and see if our bond is strong enough to grow into something more than a boyfriend/girlfriend bond." After saying that, Meowstic's eyes widened and he turned away from her. "I. I'm sorry, I didn't mean to go that far with my wording. I'm an idiot!"/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Empoleon responded by putting her arms around him, surprising Meowstic. "You're not an idiot Meowstic, don't ever call yourself that again. You can be as honest as you want when around me, because I love you. In fact, I agree with what you want, because I too want to see if this relationship can grow further. Maybe it won't advance further and that's fine, but if it did, I wouldn't mind spending my life with you as my partner. Having a family, growing old together, but we'll never know if we don't try. Okay?"/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Meowstic nodded his head and turned around to hug Empoleon tightly. The two embracing each other until they fell asleep./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"As this went on, Zebstrika and Vaporeon were also awake. But unlike the previous couple, the two were at the nearby beach enjoying the view./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Looks like we have a lovely case of stars this evening." Zebstrika stated./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Vaporeon nodded. "Indeed, stars, the ocean, and being with someone who I love, sounds like a good recipe for a great evening to me." She smiled in response./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""I'm glad to hear that, my love." Zebstrika then proceeded to brush her tail. "Thank you sweetie." Vaporeon's smile widened./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Still though, I have this worry… After this game is over, what happens to us? I go back home to that planet filled with people who hate my guts and bullied me and you go back to your thespian family…"/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""That is true, the distance between us is big. But that also makes the challenge that much more satisfying when it's defeated. We already exchanged our numbers so it's not like we can't communicate with the other after the game is over."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Maybe so, but still, Zebstrika."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""I understand your concern Vaporeon, believe me I do. But you are also an adult, you can choose to stay on that planet or go. You can choose to deal with those people, or let them rot in their toxic ways."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Vaporeon gritted her teeth in response. "And where would I go, huh? Another planet that hates my guts?"/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"But Zebstrika was unfazed by her comment, still brushing her tail. "Well there's Earth, but if you want to try this out, maybe Saturn? Sure, the gravity is weaker than your planet but Saturn's population is pretty peaceful in comparison. Plus, it would make us closer."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Vaporeon was silent for a moment, processing what was just stated. em style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;""That is true. Plus, I never have to put up with those people again… It's worth a shot right?" /em/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Vaporeon then gave Zebstrika a smile. "Okay, I'm up for it."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Zebstrika smiled back. "Excellent." He then gave Vaporeon a kiss and she kissed him back before the two gazed out at the stars together./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Sometime later, Gogoat and Tyranitar are busy finishing up a romantic movie./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Well that was nice." Tyranitar said to Gogoat. Gogoat smiled in response. "Agreed, it's nice that we are both willing to try out new genres of films together."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Tyranitar smiled back. "Oh of course. Especially with someone as sweet as you Gogoat." Gogoat blushed deeply. "Well I am glad I can watch these movies with a guy not afraid to show his sensitive side to me and have a good body to boot." Tyranitar snickered in response to that before blushing as well./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"After he snickered however, Tyranitar gave a serious look to Gogoat before continuing the conversation. "Still though, I have to ask. Is this all an act? I am asking you because I remember when you first met Growlithe, you two seemed to get along well. Are your feelings for me real is what I am basically asking."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Gogoat sighed. "When we first got here, I thought Growlithe was attractive, and I tried to get along with him to see if I stood a chance, without ever asking him if he was gay. As a result, when he left, I felt horrible about it as you can recall." He then grabbed Tyranitar's hand with his paw. "But after spending all this time with you, after all the experiences we've went through together, I started to develop a crush on you. So yes Tyranitar, my feelings for you are genuine."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Tyranitar smiled in response. "Thank you, I really appreciate that." He then let out a sigh. "Listen, when we first met, I thought it was just going to be a friendship. But as we spent more time around each other, you started to have an impact on my life and I started to develop feelings for you. For a lot of my life, I was told it was wrong to be interested in the same gender by my friends and teachers, so I was forced into believing in only loving the opposite gender and treating the same gender as friends or colleagues. But when I saw other places around the world become more accepting of same-sex relationships and even my own country giving the gay community the right to marry as well as previous rights restricted, that mindset started to fade and I became bi-curious over a period of years before eventually realising my sexuality."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"He then gripped Gogoat's paw harder. "Like you though, I didn't know if you were gay or not. So I never asked, until that night when I found out you had these feelings. After hearing that, I felt like I could come out to you and I am glad that I did."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Gogoat's smile widened as tears of happiness started to roll off his face. "Tyranitar, that is so sweet…" He then wrapped his arms around Tyranitar and Tyranitar did the same. "I love you Tyranitar."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""I love you too Gogoat." Tyranitar said before giving him a kiss./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"As the two broke off their kiss, Tyranitar carried Gogoat over to the couch and the two fell asleep in each other's arms./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"The Next Day/strong/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"As the sun rose over the horizon, Typhlosion was just waking up in her VIP bed, surrounded by a lot of party decorations and silly string that dissipated as the alarm clock went off. But as she opened her eyes, she was surprised to see Venusaur in the same bed and as a result, she fell out of the bed, waking Venusaur up./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Venusaur, what the hell?" Typhlosion said with a nervous tone in her voice./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"But Venusaur was just confused about what happened. "Umm Typhlosion, did you forget that we were both really tired last night after the party we had and you offered me to spend the night?"/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Well yeah, but still,i-"/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""It's awkward to be in the same bed as your friend?" Venusaur responded./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Well yeah, I don't want to give you the wrong idea and all."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Venusaur shrugged in response. "Typhlosion, we are both adults and are both friends. Who cares if we share a bed? It's not like we're dating or anything."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Well yes, but still, I don't want you to think that I did that because of romantic reasons."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""I didn't think that, and even if it was, who cares?" Venusaur responded. "We've seen each other at our best and at our worst, and we've been there for each other during those moments to help the other up. Plus, roommates do it too to save on space. So again I ask, why does it matter?"/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Typhlosion rubbed the back of her head in response. "I guess when you put it that way, it really isn't a big deal. Sorry."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Don't worry about it Typhlosion, it's all good." Venusaur said with a smile before the two had a laugh about it for a bit./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"After that, Typhlosion made up the bed while Venusaur cleaned up the stuff not removed from the room when the alarm clock went off. "So Venusaur."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Yeah?" Venusaur replied./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Do you and Ursaring have any prior history with each other?"/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Oh yeah. We were friends for a few years before he moved back home, we dated for a bit, didn't work out and then we came back to being friends again after that. He can be a bit of a hard-ass, but as you saw yourself on the ship, he can be a good help when you're down or hurt."Venusaur replied./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"span style="mso-spacerun: yes;" /span"That's good to hear."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Indeed. span style="mso-spacerun: yes;" /spanBut I don't think he'd be romantically interested in a girl who may be pitching for the same team." Venusaur chuckled./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Typhlosion rolled her eyes in response. "Oh come on Typhlosion, it's all in good fun. I really don't care if you view me as a friend or more than that. I am fine either way with it best buddy. " Venusaur said with a style="mso-spacerun: yes;" /span/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Typhlosion smiled back. "Same here Venusaur." Typhlosion then extended her hand and the two shook each other's hands/paws. After breaking it off, the two finished up the cleaning job. "Also, it's batting for the same team, Venusaur." Typhlosion said with a snicker at the end./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Venusaur's smile widened. "We can save the batting terms for after the season is over Typhlosion, until then, we got a game to play."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Indeed."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"Later/strong/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"After they finish up their talk, Venusaur and Typhlosion go over to Pangoro and Gogoat's alliances to discuss their plan of attack at the next elimination./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""I think we should target Meowstic." Typhlosion said./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Pangoro shook his head in response. "Empoleon was talking to Munna at elimination the previous night, so she might have an idol to play on Meowstic as well."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"As this conversation is going on, Gogoat whispers into Tyranitar's ear a potential strategy and he nods his head before Venusaur asks their opinion on the matter./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Why don't we put our votes on Empoleon?" Tyranitar asked. "Team Galaxy might be thinking we'll target Munna or Meowstic next, so why don't we target the least likely one?"/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"The others thought about this for a moment before nodding their heads in agreement. But as the alliance meeting ended, Gogoat and Tyranitar walked out of the room and Pangoro motioned Typhlosion and Venusaur to stick around for a moment./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Listen girls, I don't think we can trust them. But on the other hand, they might play an idol, so why don't we have a backup strategy to flush out a potential idol by voting for Meowstic?" Pangoro stated./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"The two nodded their heads in agreement and Pangoro smiled. "Thank you. We will avenge Ursaring."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Over with Team Galaxy's alliance, Meowstic and Munna were observing Empoleon's idol, which was the Golden Cresselia idol and Meowstic was beginning to have his doubts./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Something wrong Meowstic?" Munna asked./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""A part of me feels like this might be fake. First Munna finds one with ease and then Empoleon finds one not too long after? Anyone else notice how odd that sounds?"/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Munna nods her head. "It is odd, but if it is fake, then the votes will count, which for us, means nothing because we currently have 5 votes and the other alliance thinks we have an idol anyways, so they'll likely try to flush it out."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""That is true." Empoleon replied. "All we need is one more elimination from their side and we can have a clean sweep to the Final 5."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""I know that, but what if they also have an idol and play it at elimination this time? What if they use it on the person we're voting for? What if they have the Darkrai idol? There are so many variables to consider!" Meowstic shouted before he begins to panic./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"But as Empoleon tries to help him calm down, Munna does the same. "Listen Meowstic, we're all friends right? So why don't we do something that will alleviate the stress right away? They likely saw Empoleon talking to me and they are going to attempt an idol flush at some point. So why don't we get Vaporeon to vote for someone else and place our votes on Pangoro or someone smaller like Venusaur?"/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Meowstic started to slow down his breathing, returning to normal after some time has passed and began to consider that situation for a moment. He gave Munna a smile. "That can work, yeah. Thanks Munna, that's a good idea."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Yeah, thanks Munna." Empoleon replied./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Munna rubbed the back of her head and gave an awkward laugh. "That's what I am here for."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"After some time has passed, they bring Vaporeon in and discuss the plan for her to vote for Gogoat tonight. She is hesitant at first, but does agree to the plan afterwards. On the other end of the door however, Zebstrika heard the conversation and was a little hesitant about what just happened. "So that's the plan? Why are they keeping me out of the loop? Is this a trap? No, there must be a reason for it." Zebstrika said aloud./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"After Vaporeon left the room, Zebstrika went inside and was told to vote for his target, which matched up with who the Meowstic alliance was targeting./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Some time passed, and the contestants went to the challenge./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;""Good morning contestants, this is normally where you'd expect a challenge. But due to it involving the colosseum, we will move past the challenge portion today and instead declare no one safe tonight. So, see you then." /strong/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"The contestants were surprised about this but ultimately went along with it as they left the challenge area./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"But as they went back to their areas, Gogoat pulled Typhlosion and Venusaur aside to talk. "I have a feeling Pangoro said that he doesn't trust me. But we are still an alliance at the end of the day and I think we might have a chance to blindside Team Galaxy tonight if at least one of you votes for either Empoleon or Munna."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Oh yeah, don't worry about it Gogoat. We ignored what Pangoro said when he called us aside, it's all good." Typhlosion replied./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Gogoat smiled. "Okay, thank you."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"As they went their separate ways, Typhlosion and Venusaur continued the conversation. "Think he's telling the truth?" Typhlosion whispered./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""No, he's talking out of his butt in order to try and survive the game." Venusaur replied./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""But what if he isn't?"/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""You can put your faith in him if you want, but remember that him and Tyranitar were enemy alliances with Pangoro's alliance. He could be saying this to split up the alliance."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Typhlosion shrugged her shoulders. "Yeah, you're right. He's probably wrong."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"At elimination/strong/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;""Welcome everyone to your next elimination ceremony, we will now bring in our first jury member."/strong/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Ursaring is then teleported to the other side of the elimination area, a long set of bleachers./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;""Ursaring, voted out at the last elimination."/strong/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;""Now then, if anyone has an idol and would like to play it, now would be the time to do so."/strong/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"The cast was silent, with Pangoro looking at Munna and Gogoat looking at Empoleon, while Munna looked at Gogoat to see if either of them had an idol up their sleeve. Empoleon looked at the situation and was about to reach for her idol, but Munna telepathically told her. em style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;""No Empoleon, they are trying to make us flush it. They clearly split it."/em After hearing that, she moved her hand away from the idol and no idol was played tonight./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;""I'll read the votes."/strong/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"1supst/sup Vote:/strongPangoro/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"2supnd/sup Vote:/strongMunna/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"3suprd/sup Vote:/strongEmpoleon/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"4supth/sup Vote:/strongMeowstic/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"5supth/sup Vote:/strongGogoat/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"6supth/sup Vote:/strongMunna/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"7supth/sup Vote:/strongPangoro/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"8supth/sup Vote: /strongPangoro/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"9supth/sup Vote:/strongMunna/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"Final Vote: /strongMunna/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"When the last vote was read, Munna, Meowstic and Empoleon were shocked, as was Venusaur and Pangoro. Even Ursaring was surprised about this, even though he wasn't allowed to say anything. But after a few moments of silence, Munna hugged Meowstic and Empoleon, as well as Vaporeon and Zebstrika./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""It's going to be okay guys. I made a bad move and it cost me, I know the four of you will bounce back past this. Don't let this spell the end of Team Galaxy, be strong guys." Munna said with a smile./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Thanks Munna." Meowstic replied./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""We're going to miss you Munna." Empoleon replied back./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Yeah, despite what happened, you were a pretty good person to be around." Vaporeon said./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""This may be the end of your road, but it's not the end of ours. Good luck flower ghost." Zebstrika replied./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Munna gave her team a smile and waved goodbye to her remaining contestants as she left the area./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Meowstic and Empoleon grabbed each other's hands in response and Zebstrika/Vaporeon joined in, signifying their unity in the wake of what happened./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"Confessional/strong/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"span style="text-decoration: underline;"Zebstrika:/spanI admit to voting off Munna for what she did, but I am willing to give Meowstic and Empoleon another chance. They brought us into the alliance for a reason./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"span style="text-decoration: underline;"Meowstic/span: Despite what happened, I am not angry at Vaporeon or Zebstrika. With Munna's elimination, I am willing to give them another chance./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"span style="text-decoration: underline;"Typhlosion:/spanI probably just made Pangoro upset with me, but at the very least, Munna is out of the equation thanks to trusting Gogoat. I doubt Zebstrika and Vaporeon will stick by Meowstic's side forever and when they split, so does Galaxy. So yeah, I think I made the right decision. span style="mso-spacerun: yes;" /span/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"span style="text-decoration: underline;"Gogoat/span: Looks like my plan worked. And yes, I was being honest with the two when I said that. While I am not the biggest fan of Pangoro, Tyranitar and I also agree that its best to be on good terms with him and Venusaur/Typhlosion. But only time will tell if they feel the same way about me./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"End Confessional/strong/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;""And with that, Munna becomes the 2supnd/sup member of the Jury. So with only 9 left, will Team Galaxy's alliance recover? Will Pangoro and his alliance ditch Gogoat and Tyranitar? Find out next time on Total Pokemon Galaxy Games!" /strong/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"As the moon rose over the night sky, some of the contestants were still awake. One of which was Empoleon and Meowstic, who finished their little thing a while ago and were just resting for a bit./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Felt nice didn't it?" Empoleon asked./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Meowstic smiled. "Yeah, I didn't expect to have that kind of passionate moment with you at this point in time. But it felt amazing."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Empoleon smiled back. "I'm glad to hear that. You've certainly come a long way since we first met. You barely talked to anyone on our team, but now you are not only leading an alliance but you found someone in this game that you are spending a personal moment with romantically. Did you ever imagine that would happen?"/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""No, I didn't. I thought I would be an early boot, I had doubt in myself…" He then grabbed Empoleon's hand and his smile widened. "Then I met you. You gave me that confidence I thought I didn't have, you cheered me on when no one else would, when I was scared to try new things you were there to help me along. You made me a better person Empoleon and I don't ever want to forget about you."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Empoleon gripped his hand in response. "I'm happy you were able to change because of me Meowstic. But don't sell yourself short, you made an impact on me during our time together. When I first joined this game, I thought I would just find some new people to call friends. I didn't expect to fall in love with someone who had similar interests in swimming like me, nor did I expect to get this personal with someone from the game. You may not have changed my life in the same way I did to you, but you certainly made this game more exciting for me. I don't want to forget about you Meowstic, so I won't. Because regardless of if either of us win or lose, I will still be there for you. If not physically, then over the phone back home. Even if you think this is a potential showmance, I-"/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"But before she could finish her sentence, Meowstic kissed her on the lips. "I don't want a showmance Empoleon, I want to be in a relationship with you past this game. I want to hold your hand outside of the show, I want to give you that hug when you're down, I want to try and see if our bond is strong enough to grow into something more than a boyfriend/girlfriend bond." After saying that, Meowstic's eyes widened and he turned away from her. "I. I'm sorry, I didn't mean to go that far with my wording. I'm an idiot!"/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Empoleon responded by putting her arms around him, surprising Meowstic. "You're not an idiot Meowstic, don't ever call yourself that again. You can be as honest as you want when around me, because I love you. In fact, I agree with what you want, because I too want to see if this relationship can grow further. Maybe it won't advance further and that's fine, but if it did, I wouldn't mind spending my life with you as my partner. Having a family, growing old together, but we'll never know if we don't try. Okay?"/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Meowstic nodded his head and turned around to hug Empoleon tightly. The two embracing each other until they fell asleep./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"As this went on, Zebstrika and Vaporeon were also awake. But unlike the previous couple, the two were at the nearby beach enjoying the view./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Looks like we have a lovely case of stars this evening." Zebstrika stated./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Vaporeon nodded. "Indeed, stars, the ocean, and being with someone who I love, sounds like a good recipe for a great evening to me." She smiled in response./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""I'm glad to hear that, my love." Zebstrika then proceeded to brush her tail. "Thank you sweetie." Vaporeon's smile widened./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Still though, I have this worry… After this game is over, what happens to us? I go back home to that planet filled with people who hate my guts and bullied me and you go back to your thespian family…"/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""That is true, the distance between us is big. But that also makes the challenge that much more satisfying when it's defeated. We already exchanged our numbers so it's not like we can't communicate with the other after the game is over."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Maybe so, but still, Zebstrika."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""I understand your concern Vaporeon, believe me I do. But you are also an adult, you can choose to stay on that planet or go. You can choose to deal with those people, or let them rot in their toxic ways."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Vaporeon gritted her teeth in response. "And where would I go, huh? Another planet that hates my guts?"/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"But Zebstrika was unfazed by her comment, still brushing her tail. "Well there's Earth, but if you want to try this out, maybe Saturn? Sure, the gravity is weaker than your planet but Saturn's population is pretty peaceful in comparison. Plus, it would make us closer."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Vaporeon was silent for a moment, processing what was just stated. em style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;""That is true. Plus, I never have to put up with those people again… It's worth a shot right?" /em/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Vaporeon then gave Zebstrika a smile. "Okay, I'm up for it."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Zebstrika smiled back. "Excellent." He then gave Vaporeon a kiss and she kissed him back before the two gazed out at the stars together./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Sometime later, Gogoat and Tyranitar are busy finishing up a romantic movie./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Well that was nice." Tyranitar said to Gogoat. Gogoat smiled in response. "Agreed, it's nice that we are both willing to try out new genres of films together."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Tyranitar smiled back. "Oh of course. Especially with someone as sweet as you Gogoat." Gogoat blushed deeply. "Well I am glad I can watch these movies with a guy not afraid to show his sensitive side to me and have a good body to boot." Tyranitar snickered in response to that before blushing as well./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"After he snickered however, Tyranitar gave a serious look to Gogoat before continuing the conversation. "Still though, I have to ask. Is this all an act? I am asking you because I remember when you first met Growlithe, you two seemed to get along well. Are your feelings for me real is what I am basically asking."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Gogoat sighed. "When we first got here, I thought Growlithe was attractive, and I tried to get along with him to see if I stood a chance, without ever asking him if he was gay. As a result, when he left, I felt horrible about it as you can recall." He then grabbed Tyranitar's hand with his paw. "But after spending all this time with you, after all the experiences we've went through together, I started to develop a crush on you. So yes Tyranitar, my feelings for you are genuine."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Tyranitar smiled in response. "Thank you, I really appreciate that." He then let out a sigh. "Listen, when we first met, I thought it was just going to be a friendship. But as we spent more time around each other, you started to have an impact on my life and I started to develop feelings for you. For a lot of my life, I was told it was wrong to be interested in the same gender by my friends and teachers, so I was forced into believing in only loving the opposite gender and treating the same gender as friends or colleagues. But when I saw other places around the world become more accepting of same-sex relationships and even my own country giving the gay community the right to marry as well as previous rights restricted, that mindset started to fade and I became bi-curious over a period of years before eventually realising my sexuality."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"He then gripped Gogoat's paw harder. "Like you though, I didn't know if you were gay or not. So I never asked, until that night when I found out you had these feelings. After hearing that, I felt like I could come out to you and I am glad that I did."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Gogoat's smile widened as tears of happiness started to roll off his face. "Tyranitar, that is so sweet…" He then wrapped his arms around Tyranitar and Tyranitar did the same. "I love you Tyranitar."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""I love you too Gogoat." Tyranitar said before giving him a kiss./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"As the two broke off their kiss, Tyranitar carried Gogoat over to the couch and the two fell asleep in each other's arms./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"The Next Day/strong/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"As the sun rose over the horizon, Typhlosion was just waking up in her VIP bed, surrounded by a lot of party decorations and silly string that dissipated as the alarm clock went off. But as she opened her eyes, she was surprised to see Venusaur in the same bed and as a result, she fell out of the bed, waking Venusaur up./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Venusaur, what the hell?" Typhlosion said with a nervous tone in her voice./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"But Venusaur was just confused about what happened. "Umm Typhlosion, did you forget that we were both really tired last night after the party we had and you offered me to spend the night?"/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Well yeah, but still,i-"/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""It's awkward to be in the same bed as your friend?" Venusaur responded./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Well yeah, I don't want to give you the wrong idea and all."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Venusaur shrugged in response. "Typhlosion, we are both adults and are both friends. Who cares if we share a bed? It's not like we're dating or anything."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Well yes, but still, I don't want you to think that I did that because of romantic reasons."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""I didn't think that, and even if it was, who cares?" Venusaur responded. "We've seen each other at our best and at our worst, and we've been there for each other during those moments to help the other up. Plus, roommates do it too to save on space. So again I ask, why does it matter?"/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Typhlosion rubbed the back of her head in response. "I guess when you put it that way, it really isn't a big deal. Sorry."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Don't worry about it Typhlosion, it's all good." Venusaur said with a smile before the two had a laugh about it for a bit./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"After that, Typhlosion made up the bed while Venusaur cleaned up the stuff not removed from the room when the alarm clock went off. "So Venusaur."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Yeah?" Venusaur replied./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Do you and Ursaring have any prior history with each other?"/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Oh yeah. We were friends for a few years before he moved back home, we dated for a bit, didn't work out and then we came back to being friends again after that. He can be a bit of a hard-ass, but as you saw yourself on the ship, he can be a good help when you're down or hurt."Venusaur replied./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"span style="mso-spacerun: yes;" /span"That's good to hear."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Indeed. span style="mso-spacerun: yes;" /spanBut I don't think he'd be romantically interested in a girl who may be pitching for the same team." Venusaur chuckled./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Typhlosion rolled her eyes in response. "Oh come on Typhlosion, it's all in good fun. I really don't care if you view me as a friend or more than that. I am fine either way with it best buddy. " Venusaur said with a style="mso-spacerun: yes;" /span/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Typhlosion smiled back. "Same here Venusaur." Typhlosion then extended her hand and the two shook each other's hands/paws. After breaking it off, the two finished up the cleaning job. "Also, it's batting for the same team, Venusaur." Typhlosion said with a snicker at the end./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Venusaur's smile widened. "We can save the batting terms for after the season is over Typhlosion, until then, we got a game to play."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Indeed."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"Later/strong/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"After they finish up their talk, Venusaur and Typhlosion go over to Pangoro and Gogoat's alliances to discuss their plan of attack at the next elimination./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""I think we should target Meowstic." Typhlosion said./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Pangoro shook his head in response. "Empoleon was talking to Munna at elimination the previous night, so she might have an idol to play on Meowstic as well."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"As this conversation is going on, Gogoat whispers into Tyranitar's ear a potential strategy and he nods his head before Venusaur asks their opinion on the matter./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Why don't we put our votes on Empoleon?" Tyranitar asked. "Team Galaxy might be thinking we'll target Munna or Meowstic next, so why don't we target the least likely one?"/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"The others thought about this for a moment before nodding their heads in agreement. But as the alliance meeting ended, Gogoat and Tyranitar walked out of the room and Pangoro motioned Typhlosion and Venusaur to stick around for a moment./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Listen girls, I don't think we can trust them. But on the other hand, they might play an idol, so why don't we have a backup strategy to flush out a potential idol by voting for Meowstic?" Pangoro stated./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"The two nodded their heads in agreement and Pangoro smiled. "Thank you. We will avenge Ursaring."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Over with Team Galaxy's alliance, Meowstic and Munna were observing Empoleon's idol, which was the Golden Cresselia idol and Meowstic was beginning to have his doubts./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Something wrong Meowstic?" Munna asked./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""A part of me feels like this might be fake. First Munna finds one with ease and then Empoleon finds one not too long after? Anyone else notice how odd that sounds?"/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Munna nods her head. "It is odd, but if it is fake, then the votes will count, which for us, means nothing because we currently have 5 votes and the other alliance thinks we have an idol anyways, so they'll likely try to flush it out."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""That is true." Empoleon replied. "All we need is one more elimination from their side and we can have a clean sweep to the Final 5."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""I know that, but what if they also have an idol and play it at elimination this time? What if they use it on the person we're voting for? What if they have the Darkrai idol? There are so many variables to consider!" Meowstic shouted before he begins to panic./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"But as Empoleon tries to help him calm down, Munna does the same. "Listen Meowstic, we're all friends right? So why don't we do something that will alleviate the stress right away? They likely saw Empoleon talking to me and they are going to attempt an idol flush at some point. So why don't we get Vaporeon to vote for someone else and place our votes on Pangoro or someone smaller like Venusaur?"/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Meowstic started to slow down his breathing, returning to normal after some time has passed and began to consider that situation for a moment. He gave Munna a smile. "That can work, yeah. Thanks Munna, that's a good idea."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Yeah, thanks Munna." Empoleon replied./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Munna rubbed the back of her head and gave an awkward laugh. "That's what I am here for."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"After some time has passed, they bring Vaporeon in and discuss the plan for her to vote for Gogoat tonight. She is hesitant at first, but does agree to the plan afterwards. On the other end of the door however, Zebstrika heard the conversation and was a little hesitant about what just happened. "So that's the plan? Why are they keeping me out of the loop? Is this a trap? No, there must be a reason for it." Zebstrika said aloud./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"After Vaporeon left the room, Zebstrika went inside and was told to vote for his target, which matched up with who the Meowstic alliance was targeting./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Some time passed, and the contestants went to the challenge./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;""Good morning contestants, this is normally where you'd expect a challenge. But due to it involving the colosseum, we will move past the challenge portion today and instead declare no one safe tonight. So, see you then." /strong/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"The contestants were surprised about this but ultimately went along with it as they left the challenge area./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"But as they went back to their areas, Gogoat pulled Typhlosion and Venusaur aside to talk. "I have a feeling Pangoro said that he doesn't trust me. But we are still an alliance at the end of the day and I think we might have a chance to blindside Team Galaxy tonight if at least one of you votes for either Empoleon or Munna."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Oh yeah, don't worry about it Gogoat. We ignored what Pangoro said when he called us aside, it's all good." Typhlosion replied./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Gogoat smiled. "Okay, thank you."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"As they went their separate ways, Typhlosion and Venusaur continued the conversation. "Think he's telling the truth?" Typhlosion whispered./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""No, he's talking out of his butt in order to try and survive the game." Venusaur replied./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""But what if he isn't?"/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""You can put your faith in him if you want, but remember that him and Tyranitar were enemy alliances with Pangoro's alliance. He could be saying this to split up the alliance."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Typhlosion shrugged her shoulders. "Yeah, you're right. He's probably wrong."/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"At elimination/strong/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;""Welcome everyone to your next elimination ceremony, we will now bring in our first jury member."/strong/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Ursaring is then teleported to the other side of the elimination area, a long set of bleachers./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;""Ursaring, voted out at the last elimination."/strong/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;""Now then, if anyone has an idol and would like to play it, now would be the time to do so."/strong/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"The cast was silent, with Pangoro looking at Munna and Gogoat looking at Empoleon, while Munna looked at Gogoat to see if either of them had an idol up their sleeve. Empoleon looked at the situation and was about to reach for her idol, but Munna telepathically told her. em style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;""No Empoleon, they are trying to make us flush it. They clearly split it."/em After hearing that, she moved her hand away from the idol and no idol was played tonight./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;""I'll read the votes."/strong/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"1supst/sup Vote:/strongPangoro/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"2supnd/sup Vote:/strongMunna/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"3suprd/sup Vote:/strongEmpoleon/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"4supth/sup Vote:/strongMeowstic/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"5supth/sup Vote:/strongGogoat/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"6supth/sup Vote:/strongMunna/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"7supth/sup Vote:/strongPangoro/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"8supth/sup Vote: /strongPangoro/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"9supth/sup Vote:/strongMunna/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"Final Vote: /strongMunna/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"When the last vote was read, Munna, Meowstic and Empoleon were shocked, as was Venusaur and Pangoro. Even Ursaring was surprised about this, even though he wasn't allowed to say anything. But after a few moments of silence, Munna hugged Meowstic and Empoleon, as well as Vaporeon and Zebstrika./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""It's going to be okay guys. I made a bad move and it cost me, I know the four of you will bounce back past this. Don't let this spell the end of Team Galaxy, be strong guys." Munna said with a smile./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Thanks Munna." Meowstic replied./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""We're going to miss you Munna." Empoleon replied back./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""Yeah, despite what happened, you were a pretty good person to be around." Vaporeon said./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;""This may be the end of your road, but it's not the end of ours. Good luck flower ghost." Zebstrika replied./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Munna gave her team a smile and waved goodbye to her remaining contestants as she left the area./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"Meowstic and Empoleon grabbed each other's hands in response and Zebstrika/Vaporeon joined in, signifying their unity in the wake of what happened./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"Confessional/strong/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"span style="text-decoration: underline;"Zebstrika:/spanI admit to voting off Munna for what she did, but I am willing to give Meowstic and Empoleon another chance. They brought us into the alliance for a reason./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"span style="text-decoration: underline;"Meowstic/span: Despite what happened, I am not angry at Vaporeon or Zebstrika. With Munna's elimination, I am willing to give them another chance./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"span style="text-decoration: underline;"Typhlosion:/spanI probably just made Pangoro upset with me, but at the very least, Munna is out of the equation thanks to trusting Gogoat. I doubt Zebstrika and Vaporeon will stick by Meowstic's side forever and when they split, so does Galaxy. So yeah, I think I made the right decision. span style="mso-spacerun: yes;" /span/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"span style="text-decoration: underline;"Gogoat/span: Looks like my plan worked. And yes, I was being honest with the two when I said that. While I am not the biggest fan of Pangoro, Tyranitar and I also agree that its best to be on good terms with him and Venusaur/Typhlosion. But only time will tell if they feel the same way about me./p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"End Confessional/strong/p
p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;"strong style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;""And with that, Munna becomes the 2supnd/sup member of the Jury. So with only 9 left, will Team Galaxy's alliance recover? Will Pangoro and his alliance ditch Gogoat and Tyranitar? Find out next time on Total Pokemon Galaxy Games!" /strong/p
