And, we're back! Thank you so much for your patience, readers! We needed a break from writing this story, but we're back on board. We hope to update regularly again, though, please forgive us if it occasionally takes a bit longer than usual. The show will go on!

Please, if you have any thoughts or comments, leave us a review!


"So, if we keep going from here, we'll get to Vermillion, right?" Dawn queried, barely dodging a pedestrian that rudely shoved passed her. Some bitter utterance was mumbled under her breath. Some nerve he had!

"Right," Brock affirmed, taking the lead. Just to be sure, he peered down at a miniature map that could fit snugly inside a pocket. We'll cut through Celadon City and cut through Saffron, then head south to Vermillion. It should only take a day or two."

"Yeah, but couldn't we've just cut through the woods? That's what we did, last time." Ash cocked a brow, opting to scan the skyline. Countless skyscrapers towered over them, once again. Celadon always tended to make him feel a little dizzy.

"Do you really wanna get lost out there?" Misty folded her arms behind her head, shooting a glance at Ash.

The trainer quickly caught on, sticking his tongue out at the redhead. "We were fine, last time."

"Yeah, but just to be safe." Brock squinted at the guide in front of his eyes. "Besides… We're making a quick stop, first!" As he said this, he swallowed, his features unusually stiff.

"I really wanna see Ambipom," Dawn whined. "What're we stopping for, anyway?"

"There's someone I've been meaning to have a talk with."

"Well, that's cryptic." Ash deadpanned.

"Another beautiful girl?" Misty dropped in.

"No… I mean, yes! But, that's not the point! I think you'd do well to meet her too, Dawn. She's an expert on caring for pokemon, and we could all stand to learn from that."

The Cerulean Gym Leader blinked. "You don't mean…?"

"Wait, do you mean Suzie!?" Ash blurted out.

"Hm." Brock nodded. His brows furrowed. "I've wanted to speak with her since I changed my path, but I just haven't had the time."

"Oh, then I could get my pokemon pampered~!" Misty gushed.

"The breeder!?" Dawn clasped her hands together. "Oh, I'd love to see her again!"

Brows furrowed, Brock did a double-take. "Again?"

"We saw her at the Wallace Cup! She was the guest judge, and we got to catch up after it was done. Actually, we said we'd drop by, sometime," Ash filled him in. "No reason not to, now!"

"Especially after we skipped her last time we were here," Dawn directed at the elder trainer.

"I told you I was sorry."

"Pikapi, Pika-ka!" Pikachu interrupted. "Pikachu!" He asserted, crossing his arms.

"Huh? What is it, Pikachu?" Misty tilted a head at Ash's fuzzy companion.

"I think he's sayin' that it doesn't matter now," Ash ventured to guess. "The point is, we're here!"

"That's a very good point, Pikachu!" Dawn praised, reaching over to scratch his fur. "Thank you!"

Brock took the opportunity to lean over, whispering to the electric mouse. "Looks like you're a chip off the ol' Brock! I bet you've had to break up a few spats in my absence, right?"

Ash squinted. "You know I can hear you."

Brock coughed, turning his attention away from his friend. "...Oh, hey! There it is!"

"Great!" Ash cheered, turning towards the boutique. "I think Pikachu could use a visit with her right now, anyway. She oughta be able to help you out, right, buddy?"

"Chu," Pikachu curtly agreed. As far as his issues were concerned right now, he was content to live by 'out of sight, out of mind.' But, maybe Ash had a point… At the very least, a nice massage would provide some temporary comfort.

However, as the gaggle of teens and their pokemon companions reached the door, they found the lights off and a closed sign on the door. This, of course, did not stop Empoleon. The picture of consumer arrogance, he jerked on the door twice before Dawn gently put a hand over his flipper and shook her head.

"They're not here."

"Empo!" he squawked indignantly. What could possibly be more important than him and his beauty treatments?!

Crossing her arms, Dawn pulled her starter to the side to have a few words about respecting business practices.

Misty, meanwhile, took time to read the note taped to the inner part of the glass door while Ash and Pikachu watched Empoleon be scolded and Brock quietly wondered if he should view this as a reprieve or delaying the inevitable.

"They're out to lunch," she deduced.

"Oh, cool, we should go eat, too!" Ash replied.

Brock grunted. "We just ate."

"We could eat again."

Seeing where this was going, Dawn spoke up. "We could go battle. I remember there being some training fields here last time. Or, there's gotta be, anyway. It's a city! What city doesn't have training fields?"

Sufficiently distracted, Ash pumped a fist. "Oh, yeah, training! Now, that I know we could all go for!"

Misty threw Dawn a grateful smile and a knowing look. Ash was the same as he ever was, at heart; he had two great loves: battle and food.


Once the gang reached a cluster of battlefields, they found themselves content. Misty was more interested in borrowing Dawn's PokeDex and reading about the various exotic pokemon from Sinnoh than battling, which, truthfully, had hurt Ash's feelings, especially since Dawn was focusing on coordinating moves rather than flat out battling, and Brock was too occupied by his upcoming confession to help Ash out any.

("It's not a confession!" Ash would insist. "You're just admitting something!")

So, while Ash was off to his quarter of the field, Dawn had tried to hog the drier ground. It was quickly proving to be an exercise in futility.

"Rura, please! We need to try your other moves out! I know you've got Fury Swipes… But, even that needs work…"

The little fox, on the other hand, looked up from the mud, his bell, legs, and muzzle caked in it. He shook and Dawn flinched, barely avoiding being caked.

~Fury Swipes? Okay! I can do that, Dawn!~

Reaching forward, Rura's little claws extended and glowed. First with his left paw, and then his right, he swiped at the air. He struck it a few times before looking up at Dawn for approval.

She smiled, putting a hand under his chin. He was really wild; all of his moves were so practical, not really flashy. Even if she couldn't make him look stylish yet, maybe she could work him putting more flare into his attacks. "Very good!" she said, trying to be gentle. "But… Can you try scratching a big line in the mud? A big X? I'd love to see you do that!"

The tiny fox's tail wagged and his eyes seemed to shimmer. ~I can do that! Watch me, watch me!~

Attacking once more, Rura bounced a little higher in the air, slashing at the ground. With each slash, the X's legs grew a bit wider. By the end of it, he could sit neatly in the middle of the X, chest puffed out proudly.

~How was that?!~

It was better, truthfully. Dawn still wasn't crazy about the style. It was very rough around the edges; even rougher than anything she'd done with Mamoswine! It reminded her of Maddox, quite frankly. She wasn't sure how she felt about that.

"You're so good at listening," she said, squatting down to scratching behind Rura's ears.

~Heh, thanks!~ With that, the cub let out a yip and lifted his paws.

Dawn, in turn, squealed. His paws were super wet and cold from the mud!

Meema, across the field, had been watching keenly as Dawn trained her cub. While she trusted the two humans, she was ever nervous of how her child behaved around them. Still, she noted how patient Dawn was with him. Maybe she was only being lenient because he was a cub, though.

As she was beginning to dwell on her past, Ash's voice snapped her out of her thoughts.

"Meema!" he repeated for the third time.

~Leader, I am sorry. I was watching your mate and my cub.~

Brushing aside his typical confusion with Meema's terminology, Ash laughed her apology off. "It's fine! I just wanted to get you in on the training. I think you could use it, you know?"

~Of course.~ The Zoroark bowed her head, sauntering onto the field. The concept of a designated spot for battling still puzzled her, but her last match had given her a good enough idea of how it worked. ~I'll do my best.~

"That's all I can ask for!" Ash gave the pokemon a thumbs-up, before holding his hand to his chin in thought. "Now, who should I put ya up against…"

"Pi… Pika!" Pikachu volunteered from atop Ash's shoulder.

"Huh? You wanna do it? You sure, Pikachu?" Ash turned to his companion.

The mouse nodded, taking a deep breath. "Pika, Pikachu!" He was going to have to tackle this, sometime. Besides, it was just a spar against one of his friends. What harm could it do?

Meema blinked at his odd behavior, but kept silent. Not looking to speak out of turn, she crouched, slowly stalking her end of the fray. Icy blue hues clung to Pikachu, sure and imposing. Surveying for the slightest hint of movement. Pikachu, for his part, also dropped to all fours, circling Meema in turn.

However, when she darted forward, a blur of black and red, Pikachu froze. The Pursuit attack struck him, making him skid across the battlefield… And, Pikachu shook his head.

"Pika!"

He darted back to Ash's side, scrambling up to sit on the boy's shoulder. He slumped. It was too much. Between Meema's colors and the still fresh memories of being forced to fight, he couldn't.

Ash, for his part, only furrowed his brows and let out a resigned sigh. "I get it, buddy. It's okay." He turned to the fox. "Meema, I'll find you another partner."

While Ash turned to the rest of the waiting team, Meema looked at the mouse's striped back. ~Is it alright for him to do this… Pikachu,~ she called out, only to him, ~Aren't you worried about your status?~

The mouse's ears twitched. He had clearly heard her. But, judging by the way he bristled ever so slightly, pressing closer to Ash's neck and shoulder, he didn't like what he heard.

Meema decided to let the subject drop. She worried quietly if she had crossed a line, clawing at the dirt below her in a bid to ignore the tense silence. Even still… He appeared to be second only to Ash, yet she hadn't seen him fight once.

Ash felt Pikachu tense, and rubbed under his chin, oblivious to what'd been said. "Okay…. How about… Misdreavus!" He grabbed a pokeball, tossing it.

The open capsule spat out a flickering glow, but the shine quickly vanished. Misdreavus, chipper and playful as ever, circled around Ash immediately. She looked around, delighted to see the new area.

"Misdreeea-vus," she sang, settling before Ash after having had her curiosity sated for the moment.

"Hey, Misdreavus! You ready to do some training?"

The little ghost nodded, eyes gleaming with enthusiasm. "Mi-Mi!"

"Great! Well then… Meema, this is who you're battling!"

The Zoroark dropped onto all fours, sniffing. Whatever that floating thing was, it was clearly a ghost. Misdreavus, ghost type… That didn't tell her a lot. She looked to Ash, awaiting orders.

"Meema, you use Night Slash! Misdreavus, use Power Gem!"

The dark type rushed forward, claws aglow with potent energy. As she struck the air, she found the form of the ghost faded before her eyes, like fog retreating from the morning light. Before she could hit the ground, though, she found herself pummeled by raining rocks.

"Misdreeeee!" the ghost sang, delighted in her ruse.

Ash whistled. "Huh. Wow. Well, between you and Haunter, I'm starting to regret not using ghost types sooner, Misdreavus." Turning back to the task at hand, Ash was about to order another blow when he noticed Meema clutching her side even though she continued to stand. The trainer's eyes widened. "Brock!"

The doctor-in-training began jogging over as Ash ran to Meema's side.

~Leader, I am fine. Please, let us continue the match!~ Meema insisted.

However, when Ash put his hand where her paw was, the fox snarled loudly before whimpering in shame.

"Meema…" Ash whispered.

"What's wrong?" Brock asked as he arrived.

Ash stepped back, letting his friend have a look as the girls walked over as well. "I don't know. She's clutching her side."

Brock rubbed his hands over Meema's ribs, noting her reactions. He breathed a sigh of relief.

"Well, it looks like it's just a bruise. A big one, but we'll just add some more protein to her diet for a few days and give her a heating pad to lay on when we get back to a Pokemon Center. It seems pretty old, since she's still in pain but I can't feel what I should for a newer bruise. You said you had a match with Silver, right? She's probably been hiding it since then." He moved his hand from the fox's ribs to her forelegs. "... No wonder she bruises easy, she's skinny. She's not skin and bones, but, geez, this isn't good for her. Battling underweight puts strain on pokemon."

Ash crossed his arms, glancing at Dawn.

She sighed, holding Rura in her arms. "Actually… We've been trying to feed her more."

"... Ah," Brock said. He looked to the fox. "What's up? Are they feeling you something you don't like."

Meema seemed to freeze, the look of a trapped animal on her face. ~I… No. Leader gives me good food. Plenty. I am sorry. I will not trouble our pack again. Please do not worry over me.~

Brock frowned at the blatant brush off. He shook his head and stood. "I've never needed a diagnosis beyond switching diets or providing vitamins. I can't help with issues like this…" The doctor looked off. "But, Suzie works with beauty-focused parts of raising pokemon. I'm sure she's helped underweight pokemon before." He sighed. "I guess it's time to see her."

Noticing the tense atmosphere, Misdreavus let out an unhappy chirp. "Mi…"

"It's not your fault, Misdreavus," Ash assured.

"Well… We were going to see Suzie, anyway. Might as well give Meema a little TLC!" Dawn looked down at herself. "Plus, I think Rura and I both need to clean up, too. Everyone could use a little freshening up."

Misty grinned. "I could use some new make-up, too…" She recalled Scissor Street having a few human boutiques.

"You wear make-up now?!"

"Ash, you've seen me wear make-up."

"Yeah, but without looking like a clown!"

For a brief moment, Brock was transported back to the first time they'd gone through Kanto together. He and Dawn looked on as Misty grabbed Ash's collar, though quickly backed off when she realized how close to her height he was getting. Her head start on puberty might not last forever!


Brock's fingers, normally sure and dexterous as only a caretaker's could be, roughly gripped the cold, metallic handle of the entrance to the salon, marked by the design of a Vulpix on the glass door. He hoped that his sweaty palms wouldn't be noticed by the next of his friends to handle the door. Or, worse; if even Suzie-!

"Earth to Brocko!"

"Eh?" The student jolted out of his thoughts, looking back to his squinting companion.

"C'mon, man. We're gonna grow old, out here." Ash quipped, a hand slid into his jacket pocket. With Meema's condition, it was hard not to be a little antsy.

"Don't you want to rush in and see Suzie? I'm sure she'll be happy to see all of you!" Sure, she'd made Dawn's acquaintance, too, but it sounded like she and her older companions went way back!

"Oh, uh… Yeah! Of course! Sorry, I just, uh… Got lost in thought a little, ahah!" Brock stammered, plastering on a wide, enthusiastic smile.

Misty squinted at the man's strange behavior.

"Well, then, c'mon!" Ash urged.

Brock swallowed, pushing the door handle. A gentle chime accompanied their entry.

"Why, hello there! Can I… Oh, hello~!"

A gentle hand had been tending to rounds of brushing golden, silky fur, suddenly dropping the tool, to the recipient's dismay. Wide-eyed, Suzie turned swiftly to the group of travelers. "Ash, Pikachu, Misty, Brock… And, Dawn! My, what a surprise!" The woman gushed, turning to give her full attention. "Welcome back to my salon!"

"Told you we'd be back," Ash boasted, clapping a hand on Dawn's shoulder while the other reached to stroke Pikachu. He was relieved to get that promise out of the way.

"This is my first time, but thank you~!" Dawn clasped her hands together, doed eyes darting the establishment. It was… Very simple, actually; only showing the bare essentials! Yet, it already felt so cozy!

"Great to see you, Suzie!" Misty greeted, flashing a smile at the Breeder.

"T-thank you very much!" Brock managed, bowing his head to his superior. He at least showed a hint of a smile, now. "It's an honor!"

"Now, Brock. You don't need to be modest; I'm sure you're every bit the breeder I am, now!" Suzie flashed a bashful smile, dismissively waving her hand.

The student swallowed hard. "Yes… Thank you, Suzie, but about that…"

"Nine~!"

Trotting over, the creamy colored fox brushed her cheek against Brock's hip.

Bending down on one knee, Brock hugged the fox. "Hey, I know that greeting… Someone evolved from a Vulpix, huh? You're all big and pretty, huh?" He smiled down at her while the fire type wagged her tails at her. "I'll come visit more, if I can. Would you like that?"

"Ni," she whined, licking his cheek.

"That'll be a great time for us to catch up on breeder talk!" Suzie interjected.

Brock froze before standing up, coughing into his fist. "Uh… Suzie… I'm, uh, not a breeder anymore. I'm… going to school to be a pokemon doctor."

Without missing a beat, the shop owner snapped her fingers. "Oh! That explains why you haven't had time to visit. Told you he was just busy, Ninetales!" She smiled. "Congratulations! How close are you to being finished? It'll be even better to share our different views on pokemon care!"

Taken back, the former gym leader sputtered. "You're not angry?!"

She shook her head. "Nah!"

Sighing in relief, Brock put his hands on his hips. "If you're not mad, I'd definitely like to come visit when I can. I miss Ninetales and I'd love to catch up with you."

With her patience wearing thin, Dawn looked up from the grooming station she'd been cross examining. "Hey, can we get some work done, Suzie?" She nudged Empoleon, who hopped from flipper to flipper behind her. "I know at least four of us that could use some freshening up."

Suzie giggled. "I'll take care of your pokemon. Dawn, you can use the bathroom to freshen up if you want."

"Thanks, Suzie!"

With that matter settled, the Breeder turned towards Ash, leaning towards Pikachu. "I suppose you'll want to be pampered again, won't you, Pikachu?"

Her sudden move forward made Pikachu tense, his jagged tail flicking anxiously behind Ash's head. "Pika," he curtly answered, forcing a smile.

"Oh, dear… You seem jumpy; not at all like you were when I saw you a few weeks ago! Is something wrong, Pikachu?"

Embarrassed, the mouse averted his eyes, looking up to his trainer instead. The entire group quickly grew remarkably quiet.

Frowning, Ash ruffled a hand through his messy hair. "Well, yeah… The thing is… Pikachu… We kinda went through something traumatic, not too long ago." He wasn't keen on recalling details. "Up until now, the thought of getting into a battle makes him kinda panicky. He can't compete. Doesn't like being in shady, narrow spaces, either."

"Goodness," Suzie cupped her hands over her mouth. "And, he's normally so cheerful… You poor thing." She pursed her lips, slowly holding out a hand, palm up, to offer Pikachu. "What kind of symptoms is he showing?"

Satisfied with Suzie's tender approach, Pikachu nuzzled his fuzzy cheek into her palm. "Chu~"

"A bit of free-floating anxiety," Brock added. "I wouldn't say he's depressed; he's still often in a good mood, but it's not hard to stir him up. A rapid heartbeat shows when he begins to grow upset, and his electric shocks lack focus. We've made a little progress, but he still can't battle."

"Goodness… That could be a couple of things." The green-haired woman reached to massage the mouse's scalp. "Well, I'll do my best to help you at least a little, Pikachu."

"Pikachu," he thanked Suzie, gratefully nodding his head. He had no reason to turn her aid down!

"Thanks so much, Suzie." Ash bowed his head. "It means a lot."

"Of course; I wouldn't feel right turning away a friend in need! Now," Suzie continued, turning back to the group. "I hope you don't mind if I take care of Pikachu first? All of your pokemon will be next!"

"Oh, don't worry about it!" Brock, who was stroking Ninetales' fur, waved his free hand. "We can be patient."

"Of course! Anything for my Pika-pal," Misty agreed. Seeing him in this condition just wasn't right!

"Thank you. Now, Pikachu, if you could sit atop this counter, please?"

"Pi!" Pikachu hopped down from Ash's shoulder, rushing across the tiled floor before hopping atop a counter, accompanied by a couple brushes, small mirrors, and other tools. The appliances sent a chill down his spine, before he reminded himself that this wasn't an unwelcome hideaway; these were the tools of a friend! He had to stay grounded, he'd tell himself, crossing his arms, as he was approached by the green-haired specialist.

"Good, now, let me just take a quick look at you, if that's alright…" Suzie waited for Pikachu's approval before brushing her fingers across his fur. "You're clean; not at all unkempt. But, your coat is lacking that usual luster!" She tutted. For Ash's Pikachu, that was quite unusual!

"What's that about?" Concerned, Ash folded his arms.

"I'm sure it's not his grooming, especially with Brock around to take care of him… It must be from stress."

"Pika," Pikachu agreed. He was no expert on biology, but he had felt less than lustrous, lately.

"Poor Pikachu," Misty tutted, one of her fists clenching remarkably tight. She was ready to turn whoever upset him inside out.

"Now, could I see your mouth, please?" A small dental mirror was held up.

"Pi!" Pikachu flinched, backing away from the tool.

"Hey, buddy," Ash interjected, stroking his head. "It's okay. Remember, it's Suzie. You're in good company!"

"Chu…" Well, Ash did have a point. With that, he opened his mouth wide, baring his fangs.

The tiny instrument was wielded with care, studying Pikachu closely. "No signs of physical trauma I can see… I don't have to ask whether he's been to a Pokemon Center since. The roots of the symptoms must be purely emotional."

"Pikachu," he agreed. Minus relative exhaustion after the fact, he hadn't really been hurt physically at all. He counted himself lucky for that, at least.

"Hm…" Suzie hummed. "Pikachu, does your panic spike in response to a particular memory? Is that why you become stressed when presented with a battle?"

A curt nod was Suzie's answer. Pikachu had few words to give; it was hard not to feel a bit of shame.

"I'm sure you wouldn't enjoy recounting the event… In any case, I think I have a diagnosis for Pikachu, Ash."

By now, Dawn had rejoined the group, squeezing by to stand beside Ash. Overhearing the last bit, she clutched a hand over her chest. "What is it, Suzie? It's not too serious, is it?"

"You might want to consult with a pokemon psychologist, but I'm pretty confident that Pikachu's suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder."

Each of the group looked among themselves. They each had vague notions of what post-traumatic stress disorder was. It wasn't that long, after all, that war veterans had returned from their own trials. The conflict hadn't been particularly long or intense on a global scale, but it was enough to bring about public knowledge of a previously rarely seen issue.

Ash's focus, of course, was just getting help for his partner. "So, he can get help?"

Suzie nodded. "Yes. I know a couple of good doctors, so I can give you their names. Until you can make an appointment, though, I recommend a couple of things. For starters, I'm going to call up another shop on Scissor Street that sells disability aids. They've got an item called a thunder vest; it'll help calm Pikachu down during any episodes. You get there and pick it up after this, okay?"

"Okay."

"Next, when you're introducing Pikachu back into battles, start by letting him do all of the movement with a pokemon he's really familiar with. I remember you having a Bulbasaur last time? Electric types don't hurt grass too much, so that'd be a good start." She sighed. "Finally, you should see a doctor. I know you're busy on the road, but at least visit one before the conference if you're headed to it. It's going to be loud and very intense there, and I don't know how healthy that'll be for Pikachu."

The trainer nodded furiously. "I'll do it! Thank you, Suzie." He paused. "But… What's a thunder vest? I've never heard of that item before. It's not like a thunder stone, is it…?"

The breeder laughed a bit. "... I can see how you'd think that! No, it just helps reduce anxiety in pokemon. It applies a little pressure, like a hug. It's soothing. Some people even use something like that by wearing heavy clothes!"

"Great!" Ash smiled happily.

Pikachu, happy with his diagnosis, hopped off the counter, contenting himself to wait on one of the salon chairs.

"With him okay… I got one more I need you to look at." Releasing Meema, Ash scratched behind her head. "Brock said you'd be better for trying to get her to eat."

The breeder's eyes widened at the massive dark type's sudden appearance. Dismissing how she now tracked mud in the shop, Suzie tried to figure out the pokemon's typing and appearance. She wasn't sure what was too skinny for a pokemon she didn't know. Nevertheless, she patted her grooming station. "Well, if it's Brock suggesting you come, and he's a doctor, it must not be anything medically wrong with her, and she must like her food okay."

Brock stepped forward, conversing with the other breeder. "Ash told me she won't before her cub's had enough. She also has a tendency to hide her injuries, which is why we noticed she was so skinny. She's got some bad bruises on her ribs and fatigues easy. Her body fat isn't high enough for her to be healthy."

Suzie ran her hands through Meema's long red fur, causing the fox to look to Ash to make sure this was safe. When the trainer walked over and nodded, she calmed and tolerated Suzie's touch.

"Hm… I'm not expert on… uh…"

"Zoroark," Brock provided.

"Right!" Suzie said gratefully. "I'm no expert on what Zoroark should look like, but most fox-like pokemon have more wispy, less coarse hair. This feels like a Raticate's bristles."

"... She isn't supposed to feel that way?" Ash asked. He looked back to Dawn. Wouldn't she have known, with the difference between Meema and Rura?

The coordinator shrugged. "Don't look at me! Empoleon was downy and soft when he was a Piplup, but now he feels slick and metallic!" She looked down at Rura, whose paws had been at least washed clean. "I just thought it was 'cause he was a baby!"

~I'm not a baby!~ Rura insisted.

Suzie squinted. "Wait, that's her cub?" She looked between the two. "Ash… How did you get Meema?"

"We helped her out. She was being harassed by a poacher."

"And, is she social or anti-social?"

"Uh… Social, I guess? She's a little different, real formal, but she plays nice."

"Different? How? Like… Does she use any titles or anything?"

"Yes!" Ash nodded.

Suzie concluded her assessment, turning to the pokemon. "Meema… You used to be a part of a pack, didn't you?"

The fox froze. Her ears pinned back and she looked away.

"... I won't push." She looked towards Ash. "She experienced a period of food shortage. I don't know if her old pack disbanded, or there was a famine and the pack just couldn't find prey, or even if she existed in an illegal Safari Zone without proper care." She crossed her arms. "She's still scared there won't be enough food, for whatever reason. Until she opens up about why, she won't ever stop trying to focus on… Rura, was it? Rura's feeding."

"So, we can't do anything?!" Ash asked in horror.

"Unfortunately, not really. You need to the mother and cub a particularly high protein-high fat pokechow." The breeder sighed. "That's all you can do until you can assure her whatever happened won't happen again."

Ash nodded. "Right." He looked to the fox, who still wasn't acknowledging them. "... I'm sure this is kinda nosy, huh, Meema? Wanna have a break and play with Rura while everyone else gets pampered a little?"

~Yes, Leader,~ she finally responded, hopping down from the station and walking over to Dawn to take back her cub.

"Have fun, you two," Dawn encouraged, gently letting down Rura. He scurried off to chatter to his less enthusiastic mother, who pleaded him to avoid making a mess in another human's domain.

"Now, if each of you would like to have a pokemon cared for, you're welcome to release them!"

"Well, y'already took care of Pikachu; you don't mind if I call on another, right?"

"Of course not! Consider Pikachu's examination a special gift to a friend," Suzie winked.

"Thanks a lot! In that case… Rosa, come on out!" Ash lightly tossed a pokeball.

The Lucario appeared in a flash of light, ruby eyes scanning her new surroundings.

"Oh, my! A Lucario. I don't think I've ever seen one in Kanto!" Suzie cooed, kneeling to level with the Aura pokemon. "It's nice to meet you, Rosa!"

Ash quickly butted in. "It's Suzie, the judge from the Wallace Cup, remember? You heard her after the appeals!

Quickly recalling her voice and appearance with that reminder, Rosa greeted Suzie with a happy yip.

"I'm not too familiar with Lucario, but she does look happy and healthy!"

"Well, I know someone who won't want to miss out on some care," Dawn added, turning to Empoleon. "Ready, big guy?"

"Pol!" The Emperor squawked.

"Suzie's going to give you a check-up!" Dawn enthused.

"Pol!"

"I think I'll choose… Marill!" Misty cooed, calling on the small water type.

"Marill, Mar!" The small Water Mouse squeaked, hopping into her trainer's arms.

"I'm sure you could use a check-up after evolving… Why don't you join us, Swampert?" Brock called on the Mudfish, who took up quite a bit of space on the tiled floor.

"Swamp."

"I guess the theme of the day is water type pokemon," Suzie giggled. "Except for Lucario, of course! Hm…" The shop was suddenly beginning to feel crowded. "I'd love to tend to you all, but on my own, I might have my work cut out for me," Suzie mused. "One moment, please!"

The group watched as Suzie headed towards the back of the salon, stopping only when a door towards the end of the hallway opened.

"Oh, he looks positively stunning~!" A stout, middle-aged woman stepped out, and along with her, an Alakazam whose mustache appeared shiny and silky-smooth. Loosely holding his twin spoons, the PSI pokemon looked content.

"Of course! He always had it in him; and, we're always happy to help bring it out!" A third figure stepped out afterward; a tall, broad-shouldered man sporting something like a smock, decorated with the rare smudge of excess beauty products and polish. He sported sharp features, a strong jaw, and short, dirty blond hair that hung over his forehead in a fringe. "Your Alakazam will… Oh, Suzie! Did you need something? I was just showing our latest customer out."

"Actually, Zane, there is!" Suzie chimed, turning back to the customer momentarily. "Pardon us, Ma'am, but it's a bit of a busy day. We hope you and your pokemon are satisfied, and that you visit us again soon! Remember to let your outer and inner beauty shine~!"

With that, Zane turned his attention to the front of the salone. A wide smile spanned the man's face. "Brock! Is that you!?"

"Eh…? Zane!" Brock gawked at the slightly older man. He smiled once his confusion had passed. "In the flesh," he chuckled. "So you did start that joint salon, after all!"

"We did!" The man boasted. "And, it's nice to see you, Ash and Misty. And, uh…" He looked to the last companion, racking his brain over whether he'd seen her before and had just forgotten.

"Dawn! Nice to meet you," she greeted with her usual cheer. "And, you're…?"

"Oh, excuse me! I guess an introduction's in order," Suzie interrupted. "Ash, Misty, Brock, I'm sure you remember Zane. He's my business partner, and my fiancé!"

"Fiancé?" Brock echoed. An old, familiar pang resurfaced in his chest. Nonetheless, he forced himself to smile. "That's great. Congratulations, both of you!"

"How romantic~!" Misty cooed.

"Very! Partners in fashion, and in life… Very poetic!" Dawn gushed.

"Well, uh, congrats!" Ash added, not having very much else to add.

"Please, you're embarrassing us!" Zane chuckled.

"Yes, but thanks, all the same… But, I think the focus, today, should be on your pokemon! I was actually on my way to ask for your help; I love tending to pokemon, but our friends have brought quite a few to be cared for!"

Zane nodded. "I see. Well, you wanna split? I'm pretty good with the polish, so, uh… The big blue bird and the Lucario should be fine. Can you take care of the Marill and the… Ah, jeez, they brought in a lot of exotic pokemon."

Giggling at his confusion, Suzie agreed. "I'll take care of Marill and Swampert, yeah!"

"Thanks Suzie."

Dawn turned to Empoleon. "Okay, big guy, go with Zane!"

"You, too, Rosa. You can trust him."

Soon, the breeders began working on their clients. While Zane started by dry-washing Rosa's fur with a blow dryer on low heat, Suzie used a damp wash cloth to clean Swampert. When Zane cleaned Rosa's tear troughs and clipped her nails, Suzie massaged Swampert's paws. Suzie moved on to dry-washing Marill as Zane switched to rasping Empoleon's flippers back to a proper edge. Marill giggled as Suzie exampled her thin tail and Empoleon let out a blissful coo as Zane polished his crown.

"Brock, Misty, could you come over to me?" Suzie asked.

"Okay!" both answered, walking over.

"Okay, Brock, watch where I put Misty's hand," the breeder commanded. She took the gym leader's hand and placed it just behind Marill's ear. "Now… Press here."

Once Misty did, Marill's mouth went slack and a dribble of dark, almost green water dribbled out of her mouth.

"... What the heck is that?!" Misty yelped.

Brock laughed, reaching for a napkin to clean the same material dribbling out of Swampert's mouth. "Haha, I knew you were gonna do that! Misty, it's just residual water. Sometimes, when they battle, pokemon don't use all the water they intended to for an attack. It's not healthy for them to keep it in. If you press there, you empty it out of them, like pointing a hose down after you're done with it."

"... Oh," the gym leader said. She felt her face heat in shame. How could an aspiring Water Pokemon Master not know a vital detail like that!? She'd have to do some in-depth studying when she had the chance.

Zane wiped his hands, looking over his handy work. "Well, I'm done. How about you, Suzie?"

"Yep!"

As the four pokemon looked themselves over, their trainers were in awe. Swampert positively gleamed; the mucus covering his skin was clear as varnish, giving him a healthy shine. Marill's buoyant tail seemed lighter than even air now, hovering above the water mouse's ears. Empoleon's flippers ended in a beautiful, pointed tip. Rosa looked herself over, having never felt this clean; it was even better than Dawn's cleaning!

"Thanks so much, Suzie! You too, Zane!" Ash spoke up, very grateful.

~Yeah, thanks a lot! I feel all fluffy!~ Rosa cooed, spinning on her toes. Her tail was lax and soft, now!

"Pika!" Pikachu added, whilst conversing with Suzie's Ninetales. They'd had tons to catch up on!

"Marril looks happier than ever! I can't thank you enough." Misty hoisted the Aqua Mouse in her arms.

"And, Swampert looks great. Just what I'd expect from top-notch breeders!"

Face flushed from the praise, Suzie laughed. "Please, you're flattering us, again! Now, I think that just leaves… Meema and Rura, right? Zane, do you think you could give Rura a quick cleaning and trimming?"

"Oh, would you!? Rura, you'll look gorgeous!"

A disappointed pout from the Zorua made Dawn correct herself. "Sorry, sorry. You'll be handsome!"

"No problem at all! Come here, lil' guy," Zane gestured to the Illusion Fox, leading him towards one of the treatment rooms, and Dawn followed.

"Now, Meema… You're a bit large for one of the back rooms, so I suppose I'll give you a cleaning out here. Is that alright?"

"..." The Zoroark tilted her head. It wasn't the first time she'd been muddy, was it really that big a deal? But, on the other hand… Humans seemed to like to keep their domain tidy whenever possible. She nodded.

"Trust me; you'll feel like a whole new you, afterwards!" Brock assured. "Never underestimate how a good grooming'll make you feel."

Well, Brock hadn't steered her wrong, yet. And, Leader wasn't putting up any arguments. If he, by extension, agreed this was best, then it was justification enough to follow 'Suzie' to lay atop a disposable mat.

"I suppose I'll start with your mane… It really is gorgeous! What a characteristic feature. No doubt, it helps a Zoroark look intimidating, am I right?"

Meema's icy blue eye looked back to the Breeder as the new, gentle sensation of a brush ran through her red and black locks. A low vocalization answered her. ~It's quite necessary, yes.~

"When you're raising and protecting a cub on your very own, it must be!" Misty deduced. "No shame in being a fierce momma! It actually sounds noble." Though she hadn't seen it yet, Dawn had said something about her casting illusions…? What an interesting, mysterious pokemon!

The redhead couldn't help but feel a bit unnerved when Meema turned her head to stare at her, nary a word. She involuntarily clutched Marril; had she said something wrong!? That was way too intense…

~It's simply my role,~ she dismissed, wincing when she felt a tug on her mane. Instinctively, she bared her fangs.

"Suzie!" Brock panicked.

"It's alright, Brock. I think I found a knot in her mane… Sorry about that, Meema. I'll trim that quick. Brock, could you pass me the tougher pair of scissors?"

"Sure," the student obliged.

Given the sheers, Suzie began skipping at Meema's main. Quite a bit of her mane's tips fell to the end, but the difference wasn't discernable to Ash and Misty's untrained eyes. Brock only noticed because of his past with breeding and Dawn only knew because of her attention to detail. Meema certainly didn't seem to begrudge it.

Soon, the breeder began dry-shampooing Meema's fur, brushing out bits of dry skin. Ash was in awe. Her coat went from a dry, even gray to a warm, velvety charcoal shade. Suzie followed up by rubbing moisturizer all over the dark type.

Meema, content and secure enough to relax, rested her huge head on her paws.

Suzie sighed contentedly, finishing up the treatment by rubbing the bead in Meema's main with a cloth. "Well, good news, Ash: I've seen Meema's condition before and it's completely reversible." She scratched her cheek a bit. "The downside is… it's expensive."

"Any price!" Ash insisted.

"You're going to need to find prenatal vitamins for Meema and buy high activity pokechow for her."

Brock slammed a fist onto his hand. "Oh! She lost bone strength and organ health from having Rura! I hadn't thought of that." He shook his head. "I never connected the breeding aspects of medicine… Domestic pokemon always get the benefit of lots of visits to the Pokemon Center, so we didn't even really go over complications with breeding in my classes."

Suzie laughed. "It's not a big deal, Brock! Most breeders who aren't in apprenticeships under someone with a daycare don't know it either! I've been at this longer than you."

Ash interrupted their discussion. "Can I buy what she needs here?"

The breeder shook her head. "Unfortunately… No. You can, however, buy high performance pokechow at pretty much anywhere that sells pokeballs. Make sure you get what's meant for carnivorous large pokemon. She won't get what she needs out of general pokechow. And, you know a doctor, so I'm sure he could write you a prescription with my recommendation to be given the vitamins at a Pokemon Center."

Realizing that was his cue, Brock nodded. "Right! We'll go there right after, huh?"

Ash counted on his hands. "Wait… Wait… Thunder vest, vitamins, pokechow… What else do I need to get?!"

"I think that's it," Misty clarified.

Ash nodded gratefully. He looked to Meema then. "... You ever gonna tell us what happened?" he finally asked.

~... Leader, it was simply the way things were. My old pack was different. We had to be strong to survive.~ She looked down. ~Loyalty was rewarded, as well.~ She closed her eyes. ~I could not do what the pack needed of me.~

That was vague. Ash let it go, though he couldn't help but wonder what she had needed to do. Hunting? Defense? Had she been disloyal? Is that why she put so much effort into being obedient now? He wanted to reach through to her, but until she let him in, he could not.

The somber mood was immediately broken by Rura barging in, yipping the whole while.

~LOOK AT MY BANDANA! LOOK AT MY BANDANA! LOOK AT MY BANDANA!~

He hopped onto the table where his mom was, tail wagging widely. Around his neck was a sky blue bandana.

Zane came out after, laughing. "He's sure energetic! Don't know if you wanted the bandana, Dawn, but he wanted it! Sometimes pokemon wear them for a few days after their grooming, just to show off. I'm not a fan of accessories, but it's simple and it's a classic."

Dawn put a hand on her hip, shaking her head. "I'm mostly worried about him getting it dirty. There's no way to wash clothes when we're traveling, and I'd hate to see him in a dirty cloth."

Zane nodded. "Hm… He's prone to getting dirty, huh? Maybe try focusing on that for him. Don't worry if he looks put together. If he's happy and healthy and not just, you know, caked in dirt, you'll be fine."

"Oh. Okay then." Dawn shrugged. That was going to be a lot to get used to...

"He is pretty young. Besides, if you're goin' for appeals, there's gotta be a crowd for rowdy, playful pokemon! Bet you'd turn a few heads in the arena," Ash grinned, reaching to ruffle the red tuft of fur atop Rura's head.

~I'm gonna wow 'em all!~ The pup agreed, snickering even as he sent his thoughts.

"Oh, so you're the coordinator Suzie was telling me about! Congratulations on the Wallace Cup!"

"Thank you!" Dawn chimed, gesturing to Empoleon and Rura. "It was the least I could do to show off my pokemon's hard work!"

Empoleon proudly displayed his gleaming wings, and Rura poked his nose up high… Though, he hadn't competed, back then. But, he wouldn't argue with the praise!

"Those events attract so many pokemon you'd never normally see in Kanto or Johto; it's a great sight! It's a shame I had to maintain the shop, or I would've gone myself."

"It is," Suzie agreed. "That said, thank you, everyone, for letting us see your unique pokemon! Just for that, we'll make this appointment free of charge!" She winked.

"Free!?" The group shouted in unison.

"Are… Are ya sure?" Ash gawked. "You did a lot for us."

"We'll take the experience with new pokemon as our payment," Zane reasoned. "Don't worry about it!"

"That's really nice! Thank you. Marill and I really appreciate it," Misty added.

"Mar, Marill!"

"Us too," Brock agreed, patting Swampert. "It was nice to see both of you in action! Every bit as good as I'd expect."

"...Oh, speaking of faraway pokemon!" Suddenly, Dawn blurted out. "We still have to get to Ambipom!"

"Oh, that's right… Sorry, Suzie and Zane, but we'd better get going! Daylight is starting to get short," Brock noted, looking out the glass windows spanning the front of the salon.

"Of course! We wouldn't want to keep you from treating Pikachu and Meema!" Suzie agreed. "We'll see you off."


A golden tint washed over Celadon from the slowly setting sun, gradually casting the city in shadow. A 'closed' sign hung on the front door of the salon, where Suzie and Zane stood, along with Ninetales.

Opposite were what remained of the group; Ash, Pikachu, Meema, Misty, Brock, Dawn, and Rura.

"Thanks again for the help, and the prescriptions!" Ash chimed. "We really appreciate it, don't we guys?"

"Pika-Pika~!" Pikachu cheered, waving to them both. A proper diagnosis and a bit of advice made him feel a bit better, and things could only get better, from here!

Meema lifted her head, eyeing the Breeder duo. ~Yes. Thank you.~

"Don't mention it! It fulfills us just to be able to help any pokemon!" Suzie dismissed.

"Though, a throwing our salon's name around a little couldn't hurt," Zane added with a wink.

"Zane!" Suzie scolded.

"I was only joking! Well, kind of…"

The group laughed, nonetheless.

"I'll be sure to recommend you to anyone who's looking for help with their water type pokemon," Misty promised. "It's only right after helping Marill!"

Watching the duo, Brock could only smile. On another bittersweet note, he knelt before Ninetales. "I know I said it before, but it was really nice seeing you again, Ninetales… I never forgot what it was like to have you on our adventures. You watch out for these two, alright? Until the next time I visit."

"Nine~!" The fox nuzzled into the man's cheek, gleefully accepting a hug.

"Ahaha, hey," he chuckled. "That tickles! Oh, and I promise I'll bring your favorite pokechow."

"Hey, I don't mean to rush you guys," Ash interjected, rubbing the back of his head. "But we better split, before that other shop closes."

"Right," Brock agreed, petting Ninetales one last time. "Good luck to both of you!"

"Take care!" Misty shouted, waving over her head as the group began to depart.

"We'll be sure to stop by again, some day!" Dawn promised.

"See ya!"

"Pika-Pika!"

"Goodbye!" Suzie waved back.

"Catch you later!" Zane saluted. The two exchanged a glance, sharing a fond smile and a laugh. Ninetales cozied up to both.

A day that had started out rather shaky, plagued with doubts and concerns, had quickly become a warm reunion for some, and new friendships for others. With closure for Brock, regarding his chosen path, and Pikachu and Meema's steps towards recovery, the visit to Scissor Street was a worthwhile one.

Now, it was time to visit one more familiar face; Ambipom!