Oh hey, it hasn't been too long, but here's a new chapter anyway!

Now, I tried not to write a whole lot for this new chapter, and it's kind of more than necessary, probably, but eh, you're stuck with it now. Yes, this is mostly a follow-up to the previous chapter, but with a small surprise in at the end.

Time to conclude the lovely time back at Grass Fields, this time with more characters! …I know I have a problem, and I'm so sorry.

Set some time aside and enjoy the next chapter!

...

[Springton, Grass Fields Kingdom]

The afternoon sunlight fell behind a cloud as Samurott and Typhlosion continued to stroll through the town. They glanced through brick and wooden buildings, peeking for appropriate types of tutors. After an hour of combing around, the pair had learned nothing new.

"Well, that was great of Gallade to help us out," grumbled Typhlosion. "Sure, tutors are around this town, but they're not teaching anything that we wouldn't know or something dire that we need."

"To be fair," debated Samurott, "I doubt they'd be as easy to find." He paused as Typhlosion walked forward. "Um, northeast goes for restaurants."

"So? Maybe there's a cool battle chef here or something."

"…Seriously?"

"Fine." Typhlosion drummed his sides a bit and turned around. "So, what, down the north road for shops?"

"Hmm…yes," decided Samurott. "We go that way, and we'll have a better chance." He shrugged. "There are several book stores, so we might be able to find something in one of those, if there are no actual tutors."

"Doubtful, but whatever."

Just as they started down the path, Typhlosion caught a glimpse of a figure in a brown cloak against a wooden building. He veered over and walked to the hooded fellow.

"Hey, excuse me," started Typhlosion, slowing his approach as the hooded fellow turned to him. "You wouldn't happen to know much about tutoring for abilities or skills, would you? Special moves, that is."

Though the cloaked creature pushed off of the wall, it froze as Samurott stepped behind Typhlosion, trying to walk over. Quickly, the hooded being flipped his cloak and briskly strode away from the duo. Raising an eyebrow, Typhlosion turned back to Samurott, who stopped and shrugged.

"Maybe they don't like foreigners," he suggested. "Wouldn't be the first time."

"That crap gets old," snapped Typhlosion. "If anyone insults you again about that, they better hope that I'm not there."

"Yikes, no need to take offense for me," chuckled Samurott. He paused and tilted his head at Typhlosion. "Actually, why are you?"

"Do you think I'm heartless or something?" Typhlosion scowled. "You can put up a front all you like, but I know insults about being from far away are cruel."

"It's not…ok, it can get a little annoying." Samurott rolled his shoulders and smiled. "Thanks, though. I'm not…no one is usually around to help with that."

"Yeah? Well, point out who does it next time," growled Typhlosion. "I don't care where or when. I'll get them back for you."

"Unnecessary, but it's an appreciated gesture."

"You're welcome."

Samurott glanced behind him, spotting a blue monkey walking down the road. Tapping Typhlosion, he hurried over to the smaller simian.

"Excuse me," began Samurott. "Sorry, but you appear to be a Water Type."

"Me?" The Simian turned to Samurott, eyes closed. "I am, but why does that concern you?"

"Oh, my apologies. I'm a Water Type as well," explained Samurott. "My friend and I are searching for tutors."

"Friend?"

"Right here." Typhlosion slid up alongside Samurott, but blinked as he stared at the monkey. "Um…sorry, I'm in front of you."

"Duh, I can tell that much now," mocked the monkey. "Anyway, you two need tutors of your type?" He sniffed the air and nodded. "Well, you're telling the truth about being a Water Type. And your friend here…is Fire, right?"

"How'd—"

"Something faintly smells like smoke or ashes around you," revealed the monkey. "It's not overpowering, but it's a giveaway to your Type."

"Um…" Typhlosion scratched his head. "I mean, you're right, but that's…creepy?"

"Ha, it can be." The simian smirked. "So…I think that I can help—"

"Hold it right there!"

Glancing up, Samurott and Typhlosion watched as a red monkey charged over to them, scowling the darkest look he could muster. He quickly shoved the blue simian behind him and glared at the pair before him.

"You two monsters keep away from my brother, have you got that?!"

"W-what?" Samurott shook his head. "This is a misunderstanding. We're not threatening your twin, we're—"

"Yes, you are," snapped the red ape. "And we're not twins, we're…forget it. Now back off."

"For what?" Typhlosion stepped forward. "Look at us: we're not thugs, we're knights."

"Kn-knights?" The blue monkey stepped back. "Y-you didn't mention that."

"Huh?"

"That's exactly the threat here," growled the red monkey. "You're both knights, and that makes you two enemies."

"How does…that doesn't make any sense," contended Samurott. "We help protect this town, and the kingdom at large."

"So you claim."

"So we do," retorted Typhlosion. "You've got a lot of nerve—"

"Not nearly enough!" The simian growled at the knights again. "Not even close."

"Look, we're sorry if you're threatened by us," defused Samurott. "We're just trying to find tutors for special attacks that we can learn."

"And that's not us," fired back the monkey. "We're not even from this town. Even if we were those tutors, we wouldn't help you. Now, step aside." He tugged on his brother's hand. Quietly, softer, he compelled him, "Come on, we're leaving."

Hurriedly, and in a huff, the pair of simians stormed away from Samurott and Typhlosion, who exchanged unnerved expressions to one another. Quickly, though, Typhlosion scowled and stomped the ground.

"Those louts had more than nerve!"

"Annoyingly so," agreed Samurott. Still, he sighed and shook his head. "But fuming over them won't do us any good." Typhlosion opened his mouth to argue, but Samurott lifted his hand. "It won't, honest. We just need to find someone to teach us special moves somewhere around here, so let's just get back to it."

"What kind of special moves?"

Straightening up, the pair whirled around as a blue mudfish with spiky orange gills from his cheeks and large black fins on his head. He shifted crates around his arms and poked his head from behind them to make eye contact.

"Uh, we're not exactly sure about them," explained Samurott. "But, we are looking for something specific to our Types."

"Wait a second, you're the shopkeeper from earlier, with the Miracle Seed," realized Typhlosion. "Swampert, right?"

"That's me," confirmed Swampert. "And if I didn't know any better, I'd imagine that you two are looking to learn the Pledges."

"The what?"

"Perhaps you two should follow me inside," suggested Swampert. "It's going to be a bit to explain."

They shrugged to one another before following the merchant inside his store. Swampert froze and spun around as Samurott and Typhlosion shuffled in.

"Please don't let the door—!"

The trio winced as the door slammed shut behind them. Swampert sighed and shook his head.

"Guess I should get around to ordering a new one anyway…"

"Ah, quit complaining," called a voice.

Turning back in, Samurott and Typhlosion watched as a tall, red, chicken-like merchant appeared. He smirked at the knights and nodded.

"You royals are back again, huh?"

"Technically, we're not royals," pointed out Typhlosion.

"Eh, you live in a castle, close enough." He laughed and patted Swampert's back. "Need help with these crates, or do you want me to serve them?"

"Neither. Or, um, both, in a sense."

"…Huh?"

"Help me find a spot to put these down for now," instructed Swampert. "And then we'll take these two out back."

"To storage?"

"No, outside."

"Um…why?"

"They're looking to learn new moves, and we can teach them the Pledges."

"Oh, neat!" Blaziken grinned. "Haven't gotten to show those off in a while!"

Lifting the top two boxes from Swampert's stack, Blaziken strode through the store and placed them down behind a rack of shelves. He helped Swampert line up the rest before the pair walked back out before the knights.

"Come on out back, boys," called Blaziken.

Samurott and Typhlosion watched as Swampert closed up the store before following Blaziken to the back, led out the rear door. Both knights gazed around, with the backyard fenced around what appeared to be a training ground. Several training sandbags were set up around the area, outside of a marked arena.

"There's not a lot of room," admitted Blaziken. "But, we work with what we can."

"Why is this here?"

"To keep in shape, of course!" Blaziken beamed. "Swampert and I love training together, so we made sure that this was set up back here."

"Huh." Typhlosion nodded. "That seems like a good idea."

"Yep!" Blaziken took a minute as he observed the samurai and the knight. "So, I forgot, but you two are dating, right?"

"Nope, not us," clarified Samurott. "Our friend that came last time was dating someone else."

"Ah, the frog, right?" Blaziken chuckled. "Guess that was wishful thinking on my part."

"Pardon?"

"It's just that you two seem like a cute couple together," suggested Blaziken. "Fire and Water is a more enchanting mix than folks give it credit for."

"…Wait, then…are you and Swampert—?"

"Dating?" Blaziken laughed. "Yep, we are!"

"Really?" Samurott shook his head. "My apologies. I hadn't realized—you two act so professionally in the store…"

"True, and we do try to keep it that way in front of patrons." Blaziken shrugged. "As you're aware, the town doesn't exactly embrace gay couples, so we try not to air it. Every year, if we attended the ball, we went as friends and never performed dances together."

"That's awful," murmured Typhlosion.

"It could be worse," determined Blaziken. "And regardless, your friends are helping create a change alongside the kings, so who knows? In time, we may see changes in people's acceptance."

"Hopefully sooner than later."

"Yes, that would be ideal." Blaziken scratched behind his head. "Sorry, that's a little, um, too much, right?"

"Not at all!" Samurott smiled. "We're happy to listen to your story."

"Definitely," chimed in Typhlosion.

"Thank you." Blaziken sighed and flexed his hands. "Still, I must apologize about my mistake. I didn't mean to be presumptuous on your relationship."

"No worries," insisted Samurott. "We're friends."

"Yep, friends," echoed Typhlosion.

"Uh-huh."

Blaziken scratched his chin and stared at Typhlosion for a moment. Swampert, however, strolled out and came between the knights, making his way over to Blaziken.

"So, has Blaziken told you two anything interesting?"

"As a matter of fact," intervened Blaziken as he wrapped his arms around Swampert, "I did."

"…Oh." Swampert nervously chuckled. "Um…w-well, that's—"

"Fine," persisted Samurott. "Our king is in a gay relationship, remember? And his soon to be husband also acts as our general?"

"Yes, but…other knights have, uh, varying reactions, correct?"

"Because they're ignorant idiots," cut in Typhlosion. "Not like us."

"If you two insist," relented Swampert, and he cupped his hands over Blaziken's. "It does get tiring to hide it, honestly."

"He worries a lot," teased Blaziken, dropping his head on top of Swampert's, fitted neatly between his fins. "Swampert's has always been the more reserved between the two of us."

"Of course I have," retorted Swampert. "You were too much of hot shot that flirted with everyone!"

"Guilty," sang Blaziken. "I was quite the charmer some time ago."

"You act like that didn't happen a few years back, or anything."

"Ah, true," chuckled Blaziken. "I was already a Blaziken and still flirting with all kinds of cuties." He tapped on his chin and nodded. "Really, I had the biggest weakness for strong or muscular types."

"Which certainly changed a whole lot," murmured Swampert as he flexed. Blaziken laughed and tightly hugged Swampert. "I think I can feel your drool already."

"Um—"

"Oh my, I'm so sorry!" Swampert quickly dropped his arms and bowed his head, with Blaziken slightly sliding over his head. "You two don't need to see all of this nonsense from us. We have Pledges to teach."

"Can you start by explaining those?" Typhlosion folded his arms and tilted his head. "Just what are these…Pledges?"

"Exactly how they sound, to a degree," explained Swampert, as Blaziken pulled away from him. "It's an oath that you declare, which in turn allows you to summon a stream of power from within."

"Uh…knights should be able to do that naturally, no?" Samurott stroked his whiskers and raised an eyebrow. "We do swear loyalty to our king."

"That's the thing though," expanded Blaziken. "It's not as personal of a connection to use that for a Pledge. Certainly, if you have a mighty bond with your king, then it would work wonders." He folded his arms and studied Samurott and Typhlosion. "However, I'm guessing that neither of you has an overly fantastic bond with him, correct?"

"N-no, but—"

"Pledges are personal," continued Swampert. "If either of you so wishes, you could depend upon a connection to the king. However, these are most effective when used in conjunction with another Pledge performer, if you will."

"Another?"

"Yes, though it must be another Type of Pledge," revealed Blaziken. "There are three Types, and two kinds of Pledges can be utilized together at once."

"Together, they make powerful combinations of both offensive attacks and defensive strategies."

"So, the optimal idea is to Pledge to another user," determined Samurott.

"Generally speaking, though there are multiple ways around that," elucidated Swampert. "Otherwise, it would be tricky to change the combinations around when need be."

"Ours would be an obvious example of a romantic Pledge, though yours certainly does not have to be such a case." Blaziken smirked as Typhlosion shifted slightly. "For example, a strong friendship could suffice. Or, a common goal that two individuals fiercely share with one another, if they are too distant with one another."

"Though that works, it's not favorable," advised Swampert. "The better relationship between the Pledge users, the stronger their abilities work together."

"So…we not only have to learn how to do this," realized Samurott. "But, we also have to grow closer as friends."

"Precisely."

"Huh." He shrugged and smiled to Typhlosion. "There you go, Typhlosion. Now we're definitely spending more time together."

"Y-yeah, great."

"Don't sound too excited," teased Samurott.

"Whatever."

Blaziken nudged Swampert as Typhlosion turned away from Samurott, cheeks flushed. Both grinned to one another, but quickly returned their attention to their new students.

"Now, Pledges are meant to be an unspoken display of a bond," carried on Swampert. "However, since the two of you are starting out, you may want to decide on what you'll vow to."

"To share that example, I'll reaffirm my love for Swampert," declared Blaziken. "His firm arms are the only ones that I ever—"

"Don't overdramatize it," interrupted Swampert. "They'll think it's impossible that way."

"You never let me make it fun," teased Blaziken, and he stuck his tongue out. "Fine." More seriously, he took Swampert's hands into his and gazed longingly into his eyes. "With everything I have and all I can give, I will stand by your side, until the end of my days."

"That's still overdramatic," whispered Swampert. Louder, he added, "But I love that kind of devotion." He brought his hand up and stroked Blaziken's cheek. "And I want to do all that I can to return it every day I'm with you."

Together, they turned away from the knights and concentrated on a lone target sandbag, raised on a stake. In a synchronized motion, Blaziken and Swampert lowered their arms to the ground and scooped up with them to the air.

Beneath the target, a pillar of fire burst from the ground, quickly followed by a column of water. Both attacks mixed together, with the water twisting around the flames. Together, they engulfed the target in a massive burst.

After a moment, the pillar evaporated as a rainbow appeared in the sky. It shimmered down, with the trail leading back to Swampert and Blaziken, who turned back to the gawking knights.

"Flashy, right?" Swampert laughed. "There are three kinds of combinations between the three Pledges. Lucky for you two, you're learning the spectacular one."

"Wow, it…sure is dazzling," admitted Samurott.

"Beautiful," murmured Typhlosion.

"As nice as the resulting rainbow is, that's not all it does," disclosed Blaziken. "You know how inherent skills are capable of further afflictions against opponents, right? Like if I were to throw a Fire Punch, there's a chance that I could burn you."

"Not me," snickered Typhlosion.

"A hypothetical target, then," muttered Blaziken. "Regardless, the rainbow's enchanted with a special power boost that doubles those inherent effects."

"So, if you used it against me," pondered Samurott, "it would become more likely to burn me?"

"You got it!"

"That's a powerful rainbow," murmured Typhlosion.

"Pledge power," corrected Swampert. "And now, you two should try it out."

"But, wait, what makes this so specific to us?" Samurott frowned. "I don't see why others wouldn't be able to use something like this."

"Other Types do have specific moves of their own," reasoned Swampert. "However, there has always been a significant and fluid connection between the Fire, Water, and Grass Types." Swampert shrugged. "As far as we're aware, others have attempted to replicate these combinations with their variations, but have met with a lack of success."

"It's something that we learned not to question," joked Blaziken. "We were inquisitive about it when we were first taught the moves ourselves, but…we never really got the answers for it."

"Weird," mumbled Typhlosion.

"So, are you two ready to begin?"

"We might as well," decided Samurott. "Typhlosion?"

"Sure, we can handle this."

"All right, then let's give it a shot." Blaziken stepped over to Typhlosion. "For the Fire Pledge, you'll need to feel an intense desire towards your oath. Though you don't need the drama that I put into it, you need to have that much motivation and energy in your conviction." He folded his arms and nodded. "So, once you select what your oath will be, truly believe in that over all else. Nothing should be able to block your goals, great or small."

"There's a similarity for the Water Pledge," described Swampert, approaching Samurott. "To use it, your oath must be clear on all levels. In your heart, in your mind, this is what you have decided on, what gives you balance. Any obstacles that would keep you from it must learn to bend with your will." He sighed and relaxed his arms. "You need to be able to change your patterns to follow through with your oath. Find a sense of harmony with it."

"Wait, really?" Typhlosion shifted uncomfortably. "That seems a lot more complicated than how you two described it before!"

"Honestly, I didn't think you'd need to put those emotions into it," admitted Samurott.

"Didn't think it would be that easy, did you?" Blaziken laughed. "These Pledges take some practice, you know!"

"For now, settle on an easy oath," suggested Swampert. "Just learn to cooperate and use these moves altogether, to start."

"Um…ok." Typhlosion turned to Samurott. "I…I think that we—"

"Stop." Blaziken shook his head. "Your fervor is already wavering. If you could even summon a flame from that, I'd imagine it'd burn out quickly."

"Sorry." Typhlosion shut his eyes, inhaled, and slowly exhaled. He quickly opened his eyes and locked onto the samurai. "Samurott, I know that we can learn these Pledges! So, let's go!"

"Nice to see you a little more confident again," teased Samurott, and Typhlosion slouched. "But yes, that kind of enthusiasm is inspiring."

"That's not your Pledge, is it?" Swampert placed his hands on his hips. "You're not just going with it, you need to complement with your oath."

"Oh, uh, sure." Samurott scratched behind his head. "…Does that mean that I have to get fired up too?"

"No, your oath," emphasized Swampert. "Typhlosion's is separate from yours, but will mix together so long as you both share your goals." He lifted folded his hands behind his head. "This is what you want from it, though. Does that make sense?"

"Kind of?" Samurott shrugged. "I suppose it's worth an attempt." Samurott sighed and shook his arms. He stared at Typhlosion and nodded. "We will learn these Pledges, Typhlosion. Whatever it takes."

"Not bad," determined Swampert. "Now, normally, these need to be decided on beforehand, so that you can pull off the Pledges in a fluid motion. But, so you two can learn, try performing it now."

Exchanging baffled expressions, Samurott and Typhlosion shrugged to each other. Mimicking the rising motion that their tutors pulled off earlier, the pair attempted to summon pillars of fire and water. However, only a splash of water and a flicker of fire came from the ground.

"That was pathetic," muttered Typhlosion.

"It was a first attempt," reasoned Blaziken. "Your first few won't be quite so spectacular." He scratched beneath his chin and pointed at the knights. "First, you two will need to master channeling the proper devotion towards your individual Pledges. Getting that right will enable you to create your oaths alone, which can function as individual attacks." He shook his head. "But, to get the full effect, you'll need to learn to cooperate and coordinate with one another."

"Let's give it a few more attempts," offered Swampert. "And we'll see where we can get you two today."

Sighing, Typhlosion and Samurott nodded to the merchants. They turned to one another, and silently nodded again.

[Meanwhile]

Along the town's bridge, Gallade led Gardevoir and Lilligant forward before they came to a stop. He scratched his head and sighed.

"Honestly, I was hoping that I could find someone that would offer more information on these tutors," confessed Gallade. "By now, we should have met at least one that knows about these moves."

"You only picked up on the buzz about it before, right?" Gardevoir folded her arms and tapped her head. "Perhaps it was just aimless chatter and banter that you overheard."

"No, no, it was definitely about tutoring," insisted Gallade. "I just wish that I had overheard about where to find someone for that."

"Probably not out on Sunset Bridge," mumbled Lilligant. More clearly, she tried, "Maybe we should split up further and continue asking around?"

"We shouldn't completely separate, though." Gallade sighed and stared at the two for a moment. "But, if it's faster that way, perhaps you two should stick together, while I go searching off alone."

"Gallade, there's no need," debated Gardevoir. "We work fine with all three of us."

"But what if we're not?" Gallade placed a hand on his hip. "Lilligant's right, and we might be taking too long searching around as a big group."

"Perhaps not, but let's try a few things first," determined Gardevoir. "First, you give this side of town a quick sweep. See if we missed anyone."

"Just me?"

"Yes, it will give Lilligant and I a chance to rest for a moment." Gardevoir leaned back against the bridge's rail. "We have been hurrying around for a while now. So, you take a quick check for a bit, and meet us back here. If you find nothing, come collect us and we'll…well, let's see if we can't find Samurott and Typhlosion first." She turned away and gazed out past the bridge. "Perhaps they've had more luck."

"…If you're sure, Gardevoir." Gallade scratched behind his head and shrugged. "I guess I'll take my leave then. Rest up, and I'll be back shortly."

With a nod from Lilligant, Gallade hurried off, returning to check the town's nearby shops and streets.

"…Is he out of sight?"

"Huh?"

"Gallade, dear." Gardevoir glanced over her shoulder. "Can you see him?"

"Oh, I…no." Lilligant checked past the bridge for another moment. "He's nowhere around here, anyway. Nowhere immediate, that is."

"Very good." Gardevoir sighed and rubbed her head. "I've been meaning to get away from him for a little bit."

"W-why?"

"Between you and me," Gardevoir glanced around and leaned close to Lilligant, "I've been craving some lady talk."

"O-oh."

"About serious matters…"

"…Um…" Lilligant blinked at Gardevoir, who leaned ever closer to her. "G-Gardevoir?"

"Hm?"

"W…what are you talking about?"

"…Ah. I should just come out and tell you, huh?" Gardevoir pulled back and giggled. "You see…Gallade and I have been dating a little while."

"Right—"

"But not quite that long."

"…Ok…?"

"It's just…I don't know if I'm ready."

Lilligant tilted her head as Gardevoir twisted back around, gazing at the sky over the bridge. Twisting her leaves around one another, Lilligant slid up next to Gardevoir along the bridge and stared out with her.

"If you need me, I could support you," offered Lilligant. "I…I think—"

"Such a lovely offer," cooed Gardevoir. "But that's the thing: I need to do this myself."

"That m-makes sense." Lilligant blinked. "Um…what exactly?"

"Forgive me." Gardevoir giggled and shook her head. "I've been going on, but I haven't even explained."

"So…what is it, then?" Lilligant scooted closer to Gardevoir, now paying her more attention than the view.

"Well, I'm not sure just yet, and I may need some time…"

"…But…?"

"I think that…I want…"

Very close to Gardevoir, Lilligant leaned over as Gardevoir tightly gripped the railing of the bridge.

"…Oh, Lilligant…" Gardevoir turned to her friend, gazing into her eyes.

"Yes?"

"The truth is that I want to propose to him!"

Twitching, Lilligant backed away as Gardevoir clasped her hands together. She stared at Gardevoir as the mage bounced around in place.

"Y-you…what?"

"Propose, marry, I want to be the one to do it!" Gardevoir clapped her hands excitedly. "See, I don't want to do it anytime soon, and…well, maybe not Gallade, if we don't work out over the next few months, but it's going to be a year somewhat soon, so I was thinking that I'd ask for him."

"Uh…I don't…understand?" Lilligant dusted the railing beside her, turning her attention from Gardevoir. "H-have…you guys have dated for…not even a year?"

"Not yet, no." Gardevoir shrugged. "Perhaps it's a little further off than I realized, now that I think of it again." She giggled. "Earl Gallade is very sweet, though. And, I figured, that maybe, some day, that I could get him a marriage bracelet."

"B-but…doesn't it seem—?"

"Too soon, right? Yes, I know." Gardevoir sighed and turned back out to the bridge. "It's not like with General Rhydon and King Nidoking; they've been dating quietly for a few years." She drummed lightly against the railing and swayed about. "They've been public knowledge for a while, of course. Unofficially, that is. Officially, it's only been since the ceremony."

"Right, but—"

"It still makes sense for them to be engaged," decided Gardevoir. "Nidoking has never been without Rhydon, and after he helped the king move past the queen's death, it's only natural." Gardevoir hummed to herself. "I remember when I first spotted them with Delphox, and we were so excited when we figured—"

"Hold on." Lilligant folded her arms. "You're getting away from the matter at hand. You want…to propose to Gallade?"

"You make it sound so strange." Gardevoir spun back to Lilligant and folded her arms together. "What, are you so stuck in your ways as well? Can't a lady propose to a male? Are we so stuck in tradition that we can't bear to reverse a scenario?" Gardevoir scoffed and shook her head. "Really, it's always a male that proposes to a female, and I for one think that we should be sick of waiting on that. We can go out to buy a bracelet anytime we want!" Gardevoir pounded one fist into another. "Gallade may be a higher social rank, so it might seem odd, but I think it's completely doable! Don't you?"

"That's…not even what I'm getting at."

Silent now, Gardevoir blinked at Lilligant, who blankly stared back at her. Deflating, Lilligant looked down, and Gardevoir tilted her head.

"Oh, Lilligant, what is it?"

"Marriage…you're not…serious about this, are you?"

"Of course I am!" Gardevoir smirked. "Why ever would I not be?"

"Because we're failing you," murmured Lilligant.

"Huh?"

"Tell me the truth, Gardevoir." Lilligant returned her attention up to Gardevoir, locking eye contact with her. "Have you really been thinking about marrying Gallade for a while now? Or are you just trying to feel better?"

"Feel…? What are you talking about?" Gardevoir shook her head. "Now I'm confused."

"It's because of Delphox being gone still, isn't it?"

Gawking, Gardevoir stumbled back as Lilligant sighed. She regained her balance and threw her arms together again, glaring at her friend.

"Lilligant, I have absolutely no idea where you'd get that—"

"Please don't deny it." Lilligant sank lower, but focused on Gardevoir. "It may have been a month since they left, but we haven't done anything to ease your pain, have we?"

"That's not true—"

"Then what is?" Lilligant straightened up once more. "Gardevoir, it's no secret that you miss them. Everyone can tell that you're going just a little bit…you're not the same without Delphox. Samurott, Typhlosion, Gallade, and I have tried our best, but…we're not enough to help you get by without him, are we?"

"No, you don't understand—"

"Maybe I don't," determined Lilligant. "I don't know you as well as Gallade, and not nearly as well as Delphox. But I know when you're rushing things." She placed her leafy hands onto Gardevoir's shoulders, who flinched at the touch. "I know you love Gallade, and I'm sure you might want to marry him some day. But…you can't decide that while you're still grieving."

"Excuse you?" Gardevoir smacked Lilligant's hands away from her. "I am not grieving! My friends are away at a frozen empire, sure, but they're not dead! I'm doing fine."

"Are you?"

Recoiling again, Gardevoir stepped back once more, as Lilligant stepped forward.

"Your behavior, lately, has been notably more erratic than ever," pointed out Lilligant. "And it wasn't me that was around to notice it, even though you've had me around the castle far more than even Chesnaught had me there."

"Then who—?"

"Samurott and Typhlosion." She folded her arms again. "They may not know you that well either, but better than me, at least by checking your typical actions. And they're worried about you enough to have explained it to me."

"When?!"

"Earlier this week, actually." Lilligant sighed. "That's why I've been meeting you so eagerly as of late, even though I know you'll telekinetically drag me around with the others regardless, and why I'm even entertaining the idea of joining an army. I thought I could do more for you by getting closer to you." She turned away from Gardevoir and gripped the bridge tightly. "I thought…maybe I could do better than they have, that you needed a lady to bond with. Even with Accelgor around, she's far too invested her husband, and rightfully so, having been apart from him for so long."

"How—?"

"Greninja told me."

"Of course."

"Her husband actually dragged him around to help with anniversary ideas, those few months back," recalled Lilligant. "It…actually hurts me too, thinking about Greninja and Chesnaught being so far away. They're my friends too, and…I miss them." She pivoted back to Gardevoir. "If it hurts me this much, then I can't fathom what losing the two of them on top of Delphox does to you."

Quieted again, Gardevoir could only stare at Lilligant. She opened her mouth, but nothing came out. Lilligant waited as Gardevoir grabbed at the bridge's railing again, and watched as she shuddered.

"Is everything all right?"

Both whirled around to Gallade, who strolled back across Sunset Bridge and to the pair. He scratched behind his head.

"Unfortunately, I still couldn't find any tutors, but…really, are you two ok?"

"Fine," lied Gardevoir. "It's just…let's find Samurott and Typhlosion." She tugged at Lilligant and they strolled away from the bridge. "Maybe they've had better luck."

"Gardevoir, I'm so sorry."

Freezing, Gardevoir dropped Lilligant's arm and spun back to Gallade again. He frowned at her as his shoulders dropped.

"Not just for this, but…I…" He sighed. "When I saw you two practicing today, I thought that I could help. And I've been trying to really spend more time with you, lately, really." Gallade dropped her head. "But…I haven't been, have I?"

As he tilted his head back up, Gallade found Gardevoir right in front of him. They quietly gazed into one another before she closed the distance and kissed him. He blinked for a moment but wrapped his arms behind her, pulling her in for a deeper kiss. But just as he did so, she backed away, and shook her head.

"It's not you, Gallade." She smiled to him. "You're wonderful, really. And, I…I'm fine!"

"Gardevoir…"

"Come on."

Again, Gardevoir tugged Gallade over to Lilligant, and interlocked her arms between them. Lilligant narrowed her gaze on Gallade's arm, but quickly shook her head and nodded. Gallade smiled to Gardevoir, who beamed to the two.

"Those louts have had long enough." She giggled and pulled the pair forward. "So let's catch up with them!"

"Um…how are we going to find them, exactly?"

Stumbling at Lilligant's question, Gardevoir halted. Gallade and Lilligant glanced to one another and shrugged as they watched Gardevoir gaze upward.

"For a town that was named for being little, this place is a little too big when you're searching for something or someone specific," noted Gallade.

"So long as the sun's out, we can still find them," decided Gardevoir.

While they stared at the sky, the trio watched a rainbow flash overhead. They gawked as it appeared, shuddered, and quickly dissipated.

Blinking at the sky, they turned and exchanged unnerved expressions with one another. Gardevoir then grinned.

"Something tells me that's the right direction to go!"

"Oh, well, probably," agreed Gallade, as he trembled a bit. Lilligant closed her eyes and tightly gripped herself. "But…Gardevoir, you've got that look again. The one you get before you grab us—"

With a cheer, Gardevoir bounced up and raced off, telekinetically dragging her friends behind her.

Racing through the town, they whipped by confused townsfolk and shopkeepers as Gardevoir rocketed in the direction of the faded rainbow. A few gasped and shouted at the green and white blurs before them, but failed to stop them.

As she charged through the market streets, Gardevoir forced herself to stop. Gallade and Lilligant flew past her, to which she quickly pulled them back to the ground before her.

"Honestly, I can move faster than you," complained Lilligant, with a groan. "Do you have to do that?"

"Yep!" Gardevoir widened her grin. "It's fun."

"Super," grumbled Gallade. "Anyway, I think we're in the right place, so it's through one of these shops, I suppose."

"Where should we start?"

"Hmm." Gardevoir glanced around. "I'd imagine that…if Samurott and Typhlosion were looking, they'd check familiar places." She spotted the gift shop. "And as I remember, they were in there for Chesnaught's gift. So…let's."

Dragging her friends' arms, Gardevoir pushed at the door, growling at its refusal to budge. Placing a hand on the door, while lifting the other, she held the knob while twisting her free hand around.

"What are you—?"

A click sounded as Gardevoir dropped her free hand. Lightly, she turned the shop's knob and carefully opened the door.

"Am I dating a thief?"

"Well, I did steal your heart."

"Seriously, Gardevoir, what?"

"Oh, it's just simple magical lock picking, Lilligant," nonchalantly explained Gardevoir. "You feel around until you catch where the lock is, turn it—"

"How often do you do this?"

Staring at Lilligant for a moment while puffing her cheek out, Gardevoir wordlessly pushed the door open further and strolled in. Gallade shrugged and followed, as Lilligant threw her arms up and shuffled in after them, closing and locking the door behind her.

Glancing around, the three noticed the missing merchants and some boxes that had been organized, but not properly put away. They separated, checked between shelves, and shifted around until they met in the back.

"Maybe we picked the wrong store," whispered Gallade.

"Wait, hush."

Lilligant leaned against the back door and listened quietly for a moment. Gardevoir and Gallade leaned against it with her.

A bit of crackling and swishing was heard by the three. Gazing at each other, they waited as Lilligant slowly opened the door.

Peeking out, they watched as Samurott and Typhlosion whipped up another stream of fire and water, with the two pillars swirling around one another.

"Good," called Swampert. "That's actually a nice combination so far."

"Try to maintain it," instructed Blaziken.

Together, the pillars wobbled as they swayed into one another. They collided and fell apart, as the knight and the samurai deflated.

"Really? I thought we had it that time," bemoaned Typhlosion. "What's with this?"

"It's us," corrected Samurott. "We need to cooperate better."

"He does have a point," agreed Swampert. "But that takes time for you two to mix your attacks together. Just getting the Pledges to work out individually is your first step."

"If you two can practice together, then you'll be able to get it over time," added Blaziken. "Remember, as long as there is a clear link of trust between you two, this should work out nicely."

"Strong bonds do take time," advised Swampert. "Build it and keep practicing it here with us, whenever you're both available."

"Guess that's what we'll do," decided Samurott.

"Wait a second." Typhlosion tilted his head and folded his arms. "You told us that there was a Grass variation of this, right?"

"Yes, that's correct," mumbled Swampert.

"Well, we have a friend that could learn this too then," revealed Typhlosion. "She's a Grass Type, and this could be a very helpful move, especially if one of us could help her with it."

"Oh, that's brilliant!" Samurott clasped his hands together. "Getting her to learn this would help us use other combinations to great combinations!"

"That, uh…requires a Grass tutor," enlightened Blaziken. "And, ah…we, um, aren't—"

"But you must know one, right?"

Silently, Swampert and Blaziken gave each other uncomfortable expressions, wincing to one another.

"What…aren't you two telling us?"

Before either merchant could explain, the four were interrupted by a yelp. Whirling around, they watched as Lilligant, Gardevoir, and Gallade crashed to the ground, knocking the door open.

"At least the back door is in better condition," grumbled Swampert.

"Yeah, but our locks are awful," lamented Blaziken.

"What are you guys doing here?"

Samurott walked over and helped Lilligant up, as Typhlosion followed him. He helped Gallade and Gardevoir steady themselves as the merchants walked over.

"You know these intruders?"

"They're our friends," explained Typhlosion. "We…didn't know about the breaking and entering bit, though."

Sheepishly, Gardevoir giggled. Lilligant and Gallade sighed as Typhlosion rolled his eyes, while Samurott shook his head. Swampert stepped forward and observed Lilligant, who turned to him.

"This…isn't the Grass friend you two mentioned, is it?"

"Actually, I am she…uh, her," stumbled Lilligant. "Um…I'm the friend."

"Well, that makes it easy," determined Blaziken. "She can't learn the Grass Pledge."

"What?!"

"Why not?"

"Only certain individuals are capable of learning these Pledges," explained Swampert. "It's not something that we can decide, it's specific to the very users you encounter."

"Each of us have encountered and worked with various users of similar Types," revealed Blaziken. "Most cannot learn these Pledges, and the ones that can are a very select group."

"That sounds like you're choosing them to me," snapped Gallade. "You two won't even give Lilligant a chance?"

"Not us, but the Pledges themselves," explicated Swampert. "There are books and portraits that depict those that can use the attacks. Come."

Both merchants led the quintet back inside, and rummaged about their shop. Swampert dug up a scroll from behind the counter and showed it to them.

"These are the ones that can learn the Pledges," he explained, pointing at the species' names on the list. "For the Grass Pledge, it includes the earth turtle, the forest lizard, even the meadow serpent, but none of these listed includes anything about a Flowering Pokemon that matches your friend's appearance or description."

"And here's a book," added Blaziken, opening a text before them. "This has a few depictions of varied users of the Pledges over…here." He flipped to the page and pointed them out to the five. "None of these are like your friend."

"But…we could try, couldn't we?"

"That's what we tried to explain before," reasoned Swampert. "We have tried to teach others not on these lists prior to meeting you. Once, I attempted to teach it to a haughty duck that insisted on learning it, but he was unable to, no matter how many attempts he made for it."

"Wasn't a lack of effort, either," added Blaziken. "And that wasn't the only time we attempted it either."

"So…it's totally impossible for me to learn this," surmised Lilligant.

"You and many others," repeated Blaziken. "Few, very few, species can actually learn these Pledges."

"It has something about sea lions on here," noted Samurott, as he scanned the scroll of names. "And…Typhlosion, you're this one, right?"

"Uh…yeah, that's me," confirmed Typhlosion. "Weird, it got the 'volcanic' part right, too."

"Well, at least you two started to learn a new trick," concluded Gardevoir. "Lilligant will just have to find something else to pick up on, over time."

Everyone turned to her, as she folded her arms together and glanced back to the door. She sighed and drifted over to it.

"We'd better get back to the castle. It's getting late."

Opening the shop's door, Gardevoir quietly slipped outside. Glancing to one another, Gallade and Lilligant hurried out after her. Typhlosion shrugged to Samurott, who shook his head.

"Our apologies."

"Ah, it's no trouble," eased Swampert. "We understand that they were eager to learn more and help your friend out."

"Yeah, but that's not all of it," elucidated Typhlosion. "Well…we were helping two friends today, and failed to help either of them."

"Yes, we noticed," chimed in Blaziken. "But we'll check around town sometime, if you two would like, and try to help at least one of your friends with learning something new."

"Thank you. For that and the new Pledges."

"You're welcome," returned Swampert. "And please, do come by for more lessons, when it's possible. We'd be delighted to help you two learn more."

"We will, thanks again!"

Both Typhlosion and Samurott bid the merchants another farewell before they followed their friends back outside. Together, the pair chased after the three, as they crossed the town for their trip back home.

For a while, Gardevoir quietly led the group, as they silently followed her. At the edge of the town, however, Typhlosion grumbled.

"Look, we tried to find someone for all three of us," he fired off. "Samurott and I just happened to find tutors for ourselves first. We did ask about one for Lilligant too, and not just to those two merchants."

"No one thinks that you hadn't," intervened Lilligant. "It was nice of everyone to try for me, and I thank you all for doing so."

"You're quite welcome," purred Samurott. Clearing his throat, he shook his head. "At any rate, I'll take it that we can attempt this again when we're all free?"

"There's no point," murmured Gardevoir. "It's just a waste of time."

"Well, if you lose hope like that, it is," countered Gallade. "But we can try again—"

"Why?" Gardevoir stopped and turned to her friends again. "Lilligant told me that she's not interested in joining the army. I'm not going to keep forcing her out to make her do something that she'll never take to."

"What about it helping her with self-defense, if nothing else?" Samurott folded his arms. "Honestly, I thought of today as just another way we could spend time together. Would it be so wrong if we just came out to do that?"

"If you want to, go ahead," muttered Gardevoir, and she turned around again.

"What's that supposed to mean?" Typhlosion quickly chased after her and slid in front of her. "Just what got into you, anyway? Before, you're acting like your usual self, all cheery and full of inexhaustible energy, and now—"

"Now you don't need to worry about me anymore," she cut in. "It doesn't matter how I act, if I'm a little more ecstatic or erratic than usual, or if I'm calmer like I am at the moment. There's no need for anyone to judge me on that."

"We're not judging you," insisted Gallade, as he picked up Gardevoir's hands. "We're worried about you because you're…not yourself lately." He smiled softly to her. "Please, Gardevoir, if I stay with you, will you feel—"

"What, better?" She pulled her hands from his and shook her head. "This is better. And I'm just fine." She spun away from her friends again, brushing past Typhlosion. "I don't need everyone keeping me under observation. I'm not a mess, and I'm not falling apart. So quit treating me like I'm fragile."

"Gardevoir," tried Lilligant. "Please." She hurried in step with the mage. "We're trying to help you because we want to make sure you're ok. None of us think you're weak. We just understand and want to sympathize, empathize with you." Lilligant slipped in front of Gardevoir, who refused to look at her. "Please? I've been…trying to bond with you, even just a little. Please don't shut me out."

Her mouth twitched as Gardevoir continued to avoid Lilligant's gaze. As she looked up, however, there was a heavy rumble in the distance.

Twisting around, the five watched as they gazed to the castle, where the crash sounded. Quickly, they charged off once more.

As they rushed toward the castle, the group slowed to find Ursaring helping Beartic up from the ground. Pangoro growled at the group before him, fists raised.

"Touch him again, and I don't give a damn what kingdom we're in," snapped the panda. "I will rip you lot to pieces."

"Good luck with that," retorted Scizor, jabbing a claw forward. "You chubby wads are even worse than we could have hoped for."

"At l-least Chesnaught was one of us," chimed in Armaldo. "Delphox and Greninja were even better than you three!"

"Let's not get crazy," muttered Scizor.

"No, he's right," enforced Heracross. "Greninja did, what, seduce Chesnaught? That's only one, and that's all he did. Delphox was only as bad as he was around Gardevoir. And Chesnaught was nice enough before that nonsense happened."

"Nice doesn't even begin to compliment Chesnaught," snapped Bisharp. "He was great before…"

"Friends," moaned Golurk.

"What the hell is going on?!"

Gardevoir rushed forward, right beside Pangoro. She glared at the five knights before her, narrowing her gaze against them.

"Great," grumbled Heracross. "This won't end well."

"Run that by me again, bug," snapped Gardevoir.

"Stand down, Gardevoir," commanded Scizor. "We're not here to fight with our allies."

"Then why are you?"

"These bears are no partners of ours."

"Damn right we're not," spat Ursaring. "First off, we've seen way better looking options."

"There he goes again," complained Heracross. "They're going to get gross and unhinged quickly."

"What, that?" Gardevoir shook her head. "That's nothing. They're just acting lewd for fun."

"It's vile," snapped Scizor. "Just what kinds of creatures actually spout the crap that those three do? And they're not even joking about it; they're actually trying to have a three-way relationship."

"Don't forget that it's a gay one," taunted Beartic. "That was the other part of it that disgusted you three, right? We'll make sure to keep that up."

"See?" Scizor shook his head. "Gay relationships are one thing, polygamy is another, but trying them together?"

"Trying? We're not experimenting with this," snapped Pangoro. "We're dating each other, and we're proud of it. Get over yourself."

"D-don't threaten Scizor like that!" Armaldo stepped forward. "You three…don't even like being here!"

"Between everyone that keeps looking down on us, and the warm climate, how could we not love it here?" Beartic rolled his eyes. "No, please, we'll wait."

"Ok, hold on," urged Gardevoir. "We'll take care of this."

"Gardevoir, please, step back," insisted Bisharp. "None of this concerns you."

"Excuse me? Who the hell are you to talk?"

Faltering, Bisharp stumbled back by Golurk as the mage pushed past Pangoro, lifting her arm. A pink sphere charged alongside it as she focused on the knights before her.

"Still causing mischief, even without your smarter half," jibed Scizor. "Really, you need to mind your business, Gardevoir."

"No, she's right where she needs to be," snapped Gallade. He hurried in front of Pangoro as well, extending the blades on his arms. "What kind of dishonorable foolishness are you five getting into anyway?"

"Dishonor?" Golurk tilted his head. "Friends…"

"And exactly what did you do to poor Golurk?" Gallade shook his head. "There's no way that he'd side with you four against innocents, much less allies."

"Innocents?" Heracross stepped forward. "They're anything but that! Haven't either of you heard them? Seen the way they feel each other up, in front of anyone? They're an embarrassment to this kingdom, and probably doing it on purpose!"

"Funny," growled Typhlosion. "I doubt any of you would care if it were two lovely ladies sliding along each other."

"Look, Gardevoir and Gallade arguing is one thing," challenged Scizor. "But you? The laziest knight?" He scoffed. "Exactly why should we consider listening to you? You're just barely a grade above Chesnaught, who is only one peg over those three."

"And those three and towers above you lot!" Samurott stomped forward, drawing his blades. "Typhlosion is far from the laziest, and he's far from a disappointment like the ones I see before me! This is treason!"

"Harks the foreigner, as he draws his blades on his comrades," snapped Armaldo.

"Watch it, pal," growled Typhlosion. "You don't want me to put you down again, do you?"

"N-no."

"He's justified," snapped Scizor. "Samurott's not even from here, and yet gets held in high esteem over us? Gallade prances about more often than he is actually around here. And Typhlosion is the butt of our knights!" He snapped his claws and jabbed them forward again. "Just who do you three fools think you are?"

"The best representation that your king has to offer," snapped Lilligant. "They're far better to have around town than you. Perhaps that's why most prefer them to company."

"You're out of sorts if you believe that," called out Bisharp.

"Me?! You're the worst thing that ever happened to Chesnaught, you deceitful monster!"

Lilligant stormed forward as petals and leaves caught around her, swaying as she lined up against the knights.

"Out of all these knights, he put his faith in you! And the minute he opened up, you crushed it." She forced her hand forward and narrowed her gaze on him. "You're the very knight that I'd challenge myself."

"And accomplish what, lady?" Bisharp folded his arms. "Chesnaught probably gets his worst ideas from some flower fool like you."

"Like finding better company than trash like you?" Lilligant tightened her focus on Bisharp, who stumbled back again. "You're the worst scum here!"

"Debatable," contested Typhlosion. "All of them are scum."

"Scum?" Golurk shook his head.

"Why won't he wallop them again?"

"He's not going to attack his friends," snapped Gardevoir. "Just because you could twist his views of our new knights doesn't mean than you'll get him to face off against us." The sphere of energy crackled in her hand. "He's far better on loyalties than the rest of you louts."

"Talking like Delphox doesn't bring him back—"

"You shut your mouth, Heracross," roared Gallade. "What the hell even are you? A messenger? You're certainly a poor excuse for a knight, that much I'm aware of."

"And you're a lousy earl," contended Heracross. "At least I'm around whenever my king needs me!"

"Your gay king," reminded Typhlosion.

"Bisexual," corrected Samurott. "But, the point remains."

"He's just confused, as is General Rhydon," condoned Scizor. "They're both better together after the queen's death, and that's acceptable enough."

"Actually, they're kind of cute—"

"Shut up, Armaldo!"

"They're not just comfort blankets to each other," thundered Gardevoir. "Don't try to bury their love!"

"Oh, that is a perk," realized Ursaring. "The king here is actually engaged to his general. That lobster…bug…thing, whatever, he's right: they're cute together."

"Confused together," insisted Scizor.

"Insulting our king is insulting our kingdom," roared Samurott.

"Yeah, what he—"

"We don't listen to foreigners," snapped Armaldo. "He's never belonged here."

"Oh? You lads want to run that by me, then?"

Everyone turned as Escavalier and Accelgor rolled in. Both stood in the middle of the two groups, surveying each party.

"My, Escavalier," murmured Accelgor. "I thought you were so proud of this army, touting how they acted so unified. This…certainly isn't what you described."

"No, it certainly is not," her husband agreed. He pointed a lance forward. "Just what is going on here?"

"They attacked us for being together, and went on about how we don't even belong here," surmised Pangoro as he pointed to the first three bugs. "Then they got the golem to come after us, and forced that sharp fellow to join in."

"What a surprise," deadpanned Lilligant. "Bisharp is somehow not the worst."

"Do you really think I'd attack first?"

"I don't know what to think," snapped Lilligant. "You broke my best friend's heart because he fell in love."

"Gardevoir," interrupted Accelgor, "where do you and your friends come in to play?"

"We heard a crash while coming back from town and came here to find Beartic on the ground," explained Gardevoir. "Scizor was instigating against the bears, and we stepped in."

"Oh please," retorted Scizor, "there's far more to it than that!"

"No, that's more than enough for me."

Accelgor shuffled beside Gallade and folded her arms together. Scizor stumbled back, while Heracross and Armaldo trembled.

"W-what are you doing?!"

"My job. Protecting Nidoking, and this kingdom, from any and all threats." Accelgor nodded to the group before her. "That includes whatever dissent might arise from his poorly selected knights."

"You can't be serious."

"If she's not, then I am." Escavalier floated beside the ninja, and held his lances in place before him. "And if any of you dare threaten my wife, I will end you."

"Escavalier, we're on the same side," argued Scizor. "You'd never side with that trash around you, not including Accelgor or yourself."

"Careful, Scizor," barked Escavalier. "Didn't I just warn you?"

"What—?"

"You're threatening them," he pointed to the others around him, "and that threatens my wife, who's right over here. And that's crossing the line."

"That…that's not—"

"Sorry," rang out Golurk.

Stomping past the bugs, the golem made his way to the others, facing them. He blinked at the group below him and nodded.

"Did…did Golurk just betray us?" Armaldo shook his head. "Did he really just do that?!"

"My friends," sang Golurk to the others below him.

"Now you've got it," assured Gallade.

"Well, that settles it for me," murmured Bisharp. Turning toward the castle, he walked away.

"Just where do you think you're going?!"

"The only reason I even joined in was because you told me that Golurk even went against them," revealed Bisharp. "He's usually good at knowing his enemies." He shrugged and continued back to the castle. "And right now, he's decidedly against you lot."

The three bug knights shuddered as they turned back to the other eleven, all poised against the trio.

"Nope, forget this," decided Armaldo. "I get my tail handed to me enough as it is, and I'm not dealing with this." He bowed lowly to the larger group. "Sorry that I was rude and wrong, it won't happen again, I promise."

"Armaldo, do you have no spine?!"

"Not for this!"

Quickly, the arthropod knight hurried away from the group, rushing to the castle as well. Heracross shrugged and started after him.

"You too?!"

"Hey, if you want to fight all of them yourself, be my guest." Heracross shrugged. "You're the one that started all of this, anyway."

Beating his wings, Heracross flew away from the scene as well. Quaking, Scizor turned back to the army that stood against him.

"I…I…w-whatever!"

Charging off, Scizor hurried away from the group. Pangoro charged after him, but Gardevoir held him back.

"Hey, we're owed an apology!" Pangoro roared. "Get back here!"

"Enough, that's the end of it," decided Gardevoir. "If they ever threaten any one of you ever again, I'll personally take care of them myself."

"When did you decide that?" Ursaring folded his arms. "You were acting just like them earlier today."

"No, I wanted you three to behave," affirmed Gardevoir. "I wasn't even close to beating you senseless because of…actually, I don't even understand their motivations!"

"Confusing," rumbled Golurk.

"Hey, you're the one that wanted to split the earth open on us," snapped Pangoro.

"Sorry," echoed Golurk.

"He warms up over time," explained Gallade. "Golurk is probably one of the nicest knights, if not the nicest one here now."

"Doesn't matter," cut in Beartic. "We're used to prejudice by now, that's nothing new." He shook his head. "Sorry, mage…Gardevoir. We're not going to stop how we act. No one bats an eye if you were to kiss this guy, right?" He pointed at Gallade, who shrugged and nodded. "If that's not a problem, why is it one when the three of us decide to kiss one another?"

"It's not," realized Gardevoir. "Before, I thought you were doing it because you were trying to creep others out on purpose. I…I didn't realize that you were just defending yourselves."

"Eh, we might be a little aggressive about it," relented Ursaring. "But we're not wrong here. We shouldn't have to apologize for being…well, us."

"No, and you won't." She shook her head. "I promise you three, I won't let anyone harass you like that ever again."

"Again, you care…why?"

"Because they were savages to my friends that you're here for now." Gardevoir hugged herself as she shuddered. "And…I'd never…I would never let them…get away with that."

"Hey," Pangoro backed up, "are you ok?"

Dropping to her knees, Gardevoir squeezed her eyes shut. Retracting his blades, Gallade leaned down beside her and held her closely.

"No, I…I'm not." She sniffed and shook her head. "My friends are…I mean, three of them, they're n-not…they're…gone." Tears slipped down as Gardevoir hastily wiped them away. "T-they're not dead, b-but they're so f-far away from me, and I-I can't p-protect them from creeps like those s-sorry excuses for kn-knights."

"…Who is she going on about?"

"Our friends," snapped Typhlosion. "The ones you're here in place of!"

"What, the hog, the frog, and the fox?"

"They have names!" Samurott growled, sheathing his blades. "They're Chesnaught, Greninja, and Delphox."

"Right, right, those three." Ursaring rubbed the back of his neck. "Those three are fine. They kicked the snot out of us."

"They what?!"

"Chesnaught did, actually," corrected Beartic. "We trained against him and some of our knights. He managed to defeat us and outsmart our general."

"That doesn't surprise me," touted Typhlosion. "He has excellent skill."

"Don't know about the frog, uh, Greninja, but I think he can hold his own," debated Pangoro. "And we hardly got to know the fox, but if Chesnaught's there, I'm sure they're in good hands."

"Of course," murmured Samurott. Clearer, he added, "All three of them are capable enough alone, and better together, but we don't know anything about the Empire."

"The worst that they're dealing with would be the cold and the prophet running around," explained Ursaring. "If anything bad happened to them, someone would have come down here to let us know within a few days."

"Then…"

"If it's been a month, they're fine," determined Beartic.

"Greninja and the others?" Accelgor exhaled and nodded. "Good. I'd rather not worry about him myself. The last thing I need is for him to get into troubled waters. His father would be furious, and I wouldn't be any better myself."

"Hey, don't you forget Chesnaught," piped up Escavalier. "It's good to hear that they're both doing fine." He nodded to the bears. "We just wish we were there as well. Accelgor and I worked alongside Greninja and Chesnaught for numerous training sessions, and Gardevoir was inseparable from Delphox."

"Didn't we just tell you that there's nothing to worry about?" Pangoro scratched his head. "Honestly, this kingdom…"

"Look, thanks for the help, now and later, but we've got our own agenda to work with here."

Beartic grabbed Pangoro's hand, wrapped his arm around Ursaring, and guided them off towards town, leaving the rest of the group behind.

"Someone should keep an eye on them," determined Accelgor. "For their safety more than anyone else's."

"They're big and powerful," argued Escavalier. "Shouldn't have any trouble without these louts around, right?"

"Would you like to risk that?"

"No, dear."

"Then, we have our next assignment, don't we?"

"Yes, dear."

"Very good." She turned and nodded to Gardevoir, as Gallade helped her back up. "Please rest up, Gardevoir. You were very brave confronting them, along with your friends, and you all deserve to rest." She grasped the mages hands and patted them. "They're ok. All three of them will be fine."

Softly, Gardevoir nodded as Accelgor released her hands. Turning back to her husband, the pair took off after the three bear knights.

"Come on," whispered Gallade. "Let's get back home."

He guided Gardevoir back toward the castle, as their friends followed them. Waiting in the courtyard were Nidoking and Rhydon.

"Your majesties."

"Majesty," corrected Rhydon.

"Oh, just accept it, Rhydon," teased Nidoking. More seriously, he turned to the others. "And you, well done. Apparently, this kingdom, fitting as it seems, is still growing, even today."

"Sire?"

"We saw the whole thing," unveiled Rhydon. "If you five hadn't showed up, I would have personally torn those knights of mine to pieces." He lowly growled. "They've got new lessons to learn instead."

"Peace, Rhydon," urged Nidoking. "There are other ways to help enlighten those three…or four. Five?" He gazed up to Golurk, who stomped over to the castle. "Golurk, what do you think of us?"

"Friends."

"And what about Greninja and Chesnaught?"

"Missing friends," wistfully rumbled Golurk.

"And now how about our newest knights?"

"The bears?"

"Yes."

"New friends," determined Golurk.

"Good enough for me." Nidoking shrugged, and then smiled up to the golem knight. "That will be all. Thank you, Golurk."

"You're welcome." He waved to the group below him. "Bye."

Stomping off, Golurk disappeared from sight. Everyone glanced to the distance, perplexed at his sudden disappearance.

"He's really good at hide-and-seek," mused Gallade. "You'd think someone so large would actually have trouble with that."

"Ghosts," Rhydon shrugged. "At any rate, you five did well to defend not just your new allies, but also what they mean for this kingdom."

"We shouldn't even be fighting amongst ourselves," murmured Samurott. "We're on the same side."

"Some forget that," reminded Nidoking. "Just pray that they have the luxury to do so. Harder times call for us to work alongside even those we dislike, for the better of this kingdom."

"Do you really think that we'll have that much trouble anytime soon, Sire?" Typhlosion tilted his head. "Everything seems…fine, for now. Besides that disaster you had to witness."

"Hopefully things stay that way," solemnly wished Nidoking. More cheerfully, he clasped his hands together. "After all, Rhydon and I would like to make wedding preparations!"

"Nidoking, really, now?"

"Of course! That's what we were about to get into!" The king rubbed his hands together and grinned. "Once we decide a date, we can send for Greninja, Chesnaught, and Delphox to return here, and we'll have them back for more than just the wedding itself! They have to help out, after all."

"Provided that Emperor Empoleon agrees to it," reminded Rhydon.

"Ah, I'll convince him."

Rhydon sighed as Nidoking laughed, tugging his fiancé back to the castle. They stopped as Nidoking spun back around.

"If anyone of you are interested in helping us out, don't hesitate to stop by! You know where to find us."

With another laugh, he turned and dragged Rhydon back inside. Chuckling, the quintet returned their attention to one another.

"So…the sun's almost gone," pointed out Gallade.

"Lilligant needs to get home," realized Gardevoir.

"Oh, that's fine, I can…stay here, I suppose." Everyone turned to Lilligant and shot her confused looks. "What? Am I still joining this army, or not?"

"Do you…really want to?"

"Only if Gardevoir keeps helping me out," insisted Lilligant. "And yes, it has to be you."

"Of course!" Gardevoir quickly hugged Lilligant tightly. "I would love to help you out and have you here!"

"G-great," gasped Lilligant, barely patting the mage's back.

"Fine by me, but…first, let's you and I have a minute alone," insisted Gallade, tugging at Gardevoir. "Just us."

"Sure, yes."

Releasing Lilligant, Gardevoir turned and held Gallade. Quietly, the pair waved before walking off from their friends, strolling behind the castle. Lilligant heavily sighed as she watched them go, and folded her arms together as her head drooped.

"Hey, Lilligant," piped up Samurott. "We'll help you train too."

"Aw, thank you, Samurott," giggled Lilligant, perking up again.

"Yeah, you head inside, and we'll be with you in a minute," offered Typhlosion. "We'll get you a room for the night and then we'll see if we should go bother our betrothed majesties."

"Ha, that sounds great, sure!"

Nodding, Lilligant hurried across the courtyard and to the castle. Quietly, Samurott turned to Typhlosion, who sank back into place. The samurai raised an eyebrow at the knight.

"Why aren't we going inside with her now?"

"I just…wanted to, um…talk, a little?" Typhlosion shrugged. "We did just deal with a bunch of assholes, but we also learned a new trick or two today, so I…well, are we going to keep going with that?"

"Absolutely!" Samurott smiled to Typhlosion, but then frowned. "Is that…what you really wanted to talk about?"

"Well…that, and uh, what comes with it."

"You mean bonding?"

"Ah, sure, that." Typhlosion scratched behind his neck. "Though that makes it sound kind of, um…well, uh, weird, right?"

"Not really." Samurott shrugged. "You wanted to spend more time together, right? This will guarantee that."

"Right, but…uh." Typhlosion kicked at the ground and turned away from Samurott. "We don't, you know, have to only hang out to train, do we? After all, we do plenty of that here, and now we're going to do more of it, so…"

"Typhlosion, I think it goes beyond training to actually strengthen a friendship." Samurott smiled again to the knight, who glanced back to the sea lion. "And you're still quick to everyone's defense, especially mine, so…I'm looking forward to, well, getting to know you better!"

"M-me too, ah, with you, that is." Typhlosion dropped his head and waved off. "Ah, you know what I mean."

"We mean the same thing," laughed Samurott. He stopped and rested his hand on Typhlosion's shoulder as the knight looked to him again. "Let's go help Lilligant before she gets lost, though, ok?" Typhlosion nodded. "Good. Then, maybe tomorrow after training, it'll be just you and me, ok?" Samurott patted his shoulder as Typhlosion nodded again. "Great. Again, I'm looking forward to it!"

"Yeah, me too," repeated Typhlosion, as he watched Samurott walk back toward the castle. Softly, as his cheeks flushed, he whispered, "More than you know, Samurott."

Breathing deeply, Typhlosion looked up at the sky and smiled. Shaking his head, he grumbled and hurried after Samurott, following the samurai back into the castle for the night.

...

Haha, nothing going there. Nope, not a thing.

…Oh, fine, FINE! Yes, yes, all of you clever readers from the last chapter were right. I am totally setting up for VolcanicSamuraiShipping, which is, yes, the pair between Samurott and Typhlosion. Geez, I can't even surprise you guys anymore. (Hence the spooky show at the end, as a last ditch effort.)

Anyway, Typhlosion has a big stinking crush on Samurott, what a shock! Funny, given how they were learning to work together, under the tutelage of a new gay couple, using new attacks that involved combining Water and Fire into, oh hey, a rainbow! …Don't you dare roll your eyes behind your monitors! IT WAS CUTE, OK? A CUTE OPPORTUNITY TO SET UP A BRAND NEW SET OF ATTACKS! …And I picked the gayest options, yes. Stop judging me.

Right then, Pledges! The new type of attack that will probably not be important for a while, but gave Samurott and Typhlosion something to do. And let me use actual game mechanics for the lore, oh joy! Oh, and I got to showcase BreezyShipping (what?), which was my lovely couple of merchants, Swampert and Blaziken. They're a sweet, but sadly secretive, couple in Springton, one of the few besides…um, a few pairs now, huh?

Well, guess who's not gay? Gardevoir! Wait, female. Uh…Gallade! There we go! It was nice to have some MedievalStoryShipping take the stage again, since this pair hasn't really had much momentum…well, ever, but much less in this story than the last. I fixed it for you, Gardelade fans! …This story has those too, right?

Want to know what else it has? Feels! Poor Gardevoir finally got to unload heavy burdens of carrying her sorrows over her departed friends, who she hasn't seen in a month. (Thanks a lot, time skip.) Even with her new friends, she's still struggling to get over it, but less so after helping her bear friends.

Speaking of, the three bears! That's totally not based on a cartoon or anything, right? Anyway, they had the delightful honor of dealing with the jerks of Grass Fields, hooray! …Wait, no, that sucks. Whoops. But, lucky for them, the heroes came to settle that and help out. Good stuff! …The bad stuff was how Scizor and friends acted. Because, you know, they're mean. Even though it's mostly Scizor. Armaldo's kind of a sucker to peer pressure, Heracross lacks meaning in life, Bisharp also gets dragged into things, and poor Golurk just needed to adjust. Wonder if they can be nicer in the future? (Spoilers: not soon enough, lol.)

Moving on, Lilligant got to be the heart of the group this week! Because she can do that cool thing called empathizing, where she can relate to multiple friends when they're going through hard times. She did nicely helping Gardevoir, and chewed the crap out of Bisharp as she defended the bears. Yay! …Wait. Anyway, she's a really cool dancer! And…definitely staying around Grass Fields for the long run. Because, really, what are the Grass Fields without their token Grass Type? Honestly, what is that? It's a bunch of bugs down there. Yuck.

Oh, but speaking of bugs, Accelgor and Escavalier had a quick "hi-bye" appearance again! …Well, that's more of Nidoking and Rhydon's pop-up, but hey, they made it in too! Such lovely couples, included once again in this story. I'm not making up for missing characters over long chapters. You don't need to worry about them or anything. This isn't a series, right? Totally not. (Stop. Judging. Me.) Again, hooray for IWantMyHelmetBackShipping and DrillShipping! Fan service totally delivers the best couples, you know? …Everyone likes these two, don't they? …No? Cool.

Talking too much, so let's stop it here. Next time, yes, we're going back to the Iceberg Empire for the foreseeable future. Yay! I wonder what other lovely couples will have a wonderful time!

…You know what? You'll find out. Regardless, expect the return of SneakpastShipping and friends.

Feedback is very much super cool, and I've actually gotten a lot more of it not just here, but also on Tumblr. Yay, you're all flocking to me! Huzzah! Still, I would like to ask for your continued feedback and support, regardless of the website you choose to send it over. Because that's kind of what motivates me to work harder. Comments, questions, and criticisms are all welcome, via messaging or reviews! Please send them if you can! I like knowing that you guys are paying attention to my favorite pairings that I haven't even written out yet. (So not bitter, nope. …Actually, I kept giggling every time someone mentioned Samurott and Typhlosion becoming a couple, so please, do keep guessing at them.)

Wow, ew, this was absurdly longer than I wanted. Thank you all once more for reading it!