Hello again, readers! Before the eighth generation officially debuts, I decided to slide in an update! ...Geez, I have a lot of Pokemon to catch up on.

While I'm itching to finish out the story in the Empire, the Kingdom has its own drama to catch up on. And so, the next couple of chapters will focus instead on that, with all of your favorite secondary characters! ...Don't look at me like that, we get some moments in this one.

Anyway, it's a bit shorter than before, but not by that much. So, enjoy!

...

[Grass Fields Kingdom]

In the castle's main hall, Nidoking watched from the second floor's railing, as Rhydon tasked Scizor, Armaldo, and Heracross for a supply run. The latter two nodded, but Scizor rolled his eyes, snapping a pincer before folding his arms.

Though Rhydon frowned, he continued to read off his list and ambled by, watching as Samurott shifted the arm from a displayed suit of armor.

"Lastly for today's purchases, we're looking to see what decorations might be of use, specifically floral arrangements," listed Rhydon. "We were hoping—"

"Oh, for hell's sake, why do you need us to look into that?" Scizor lowered his arms and narrowed his gaze. "Seriously, flowers? Why would you need us to look into that, especially if you're probably going there yourself anyway?"

"…We were hoping you could pick us up a catalog for the arrangements," finished Rhydon. "But, if that is too much trouble, you're right, and I could go tomorrow."

"That's not a problem," amended Armaldo. "We'll stop by and pick one up with a free minute."

"Thank you, and thank you all for your efforts." Rhydon smiled. "I know it's a lot, especially when you could use the time for additional training, but—"

"It's not a big deal, sire," insisted Heracross. "We trained for today, so, we're free enough to help out."

"Truly, I do appreciate it."

Bowing, the three knights strode from the hall, muttering and bickering to one another as they departed. Rhydon sighed and dropped his shoulders.

"There was a time that they used to like me."

"Well, I think they've softened a bit more from the past few months," pointed out Nidoking. "Scizor, perhaps not, but the other two seem to have gotten a bit better."

"Maybe, but I don't feel like it'll ever go back," realized Rhydon. "At least I can get them to train, but anything else tends to be something of a struggle."

"It's only for some of them," reassured Samurott. "The rest of us are more than happy to plan out the wedding."

"Ah, thank you, Samurott." Nidoking smirked. "See, love? It's just a vocal minority among the ranks."

"They are very loud, though…"

"Think nothing of them, General."

Escavalier and Accelgor ambled into the room, bowing before Nidoking as they passed. The knight drifted to Rhydon.

"Believe me, I thought better of them before."

"That's only more unsettling to hear," admitted Rhydon. "I want all of you to get along and work together."

"Forgive me, sir, but they're the unwilling ones," reminded Accelgor. "More to the point, though, I'd place that blame solely on Scizor, given that he's the leader of his little gang."

"Actually, they don't seem as cooperative with one another as before," noted Samurott. "Sounded like they were arguing on the way out."

"We'll see." She folded her arms and gazed outside. "Escavalier and I should head back to make sure they didn't go after Lilligant or the bears."

"We weren't away for that long."

"And they don't need long to cause trouble."

"Fair."

"Furthermore, has Heracross delivered our mail yet or not?" Accelgor twisted around to Nidoking. "I wrote a letter for Greninja, and one for Lotus Lake as well, but I've yet to have following correspondence regarding either."

"Honestly, he has been having trouble with deliveries lately," disclosed Nidoking. "I'm not certain about the blocks for either, though the Empire does have harsh winter storms and blizzards that can impede mail for several weeks."

"Even if that's the case for them, what of Lotus Lake?"

"Hm." Nidoking rubbed at his chin. "That does leave a good question. I haven't heard any reason for them to not receive mail."

"Would either of us be able to be dispatched there?" Escavalier swayed as he gazed up at Nidoking. "We'll return as quick as we can—"

"No, don't Escavalier," interrupted Accelgor, as she rested a hand on his arm. "Nidoking will agree to that, and we're needed more here."

"But—"

"Your Highness, you brought me here to protect you. If there is something wrong at home, I will hear about it, sooner or later." She shook her head. "I don't need to make you worried over something that might be silly, like a harvest festival that might have delayed everything."

"Still, we should check in with them regardless," insisted Nidoking. "Lotus Lake is part of my kingdom."

"Heracross might know more himself," offered Escavalier. "We might try asking him if he's been keeping up with news of the other destinations."

"Perhaps." Accelgor folded her arms again. "Come dear, we've spent too much time in here."

"It really wasn't—"

"Escavalier."

"Yes, yes, off we go!"

Together, both departed from the hall. Rhydon scratched behind his head while Samurott approached.

"The divisions still make me unhappy," persisted Rhydon. "Unity is critical for any army."

"Only if the soldiers are willing will there be unity." Samurott rolled his arms around, and rocked his neck to and fro. "As much as we try, forcing it isn't a solution."

"No, it certainly isn't."

"Such a failure and fault lies with me," declared Nidoking. Both looked up to him as he approached the left stairwell. "My leadership should be that which brings my subjects closer, and I haven't done that, in or out of my castle."

"None of this rests on your shoulders, Nidoking!" Rhydon curled his hand to a fist. "These are my soldiers that are unruly, and that's my fault."

"Rhydon—"

"Please." Rhydon's tail whipped around. "I won't let you blame yourself for something that's entirely not your fault."

"Then won't you extend yourself that same courtesy?"

Nidoking lifted his head and gazed across to the opposite stairwell. Gardevoir and Typhlosion stared down to Rhydon, as he and Samurott raised their attention to the duo.

"She's right," chimed in Typhlosion. "General, you're constantly putting yourself through a lot harsher standards than anyone else."

"That's not true—"

"Oh no?" Gardevoir clasped her hands together. "Let's go over them!" She cleared her throat as she descended alongside Typhlosion. "You harbored feelings for Nidoking over goodness knows how many years. And then when you finally did admit your love to him, you kept that secret."

"Right, but that was for his protection!"

"At the cost of your personal satisfaction." Gardevoir lifted her hand and shook it. "Because of that, you had to constantly keep yourself divided between how we saw you and how Nidoking saw you." She frowned as she continued down. "There would always be this part of you that stood at remove because you couldn't be honest."

"That may be, but it was to keep order."

"Yes, but that's the point: you continuously do this for the benefit of others." Her shoulders dropped. "With your distancing, you ended up coming off as less of yourself than before, something you still have yet to reclaim. Sure, you're at ease around some of us, which started with Chesnaught, but you've yet to really embrace yourself again."

"She's right," piped up Typhlosion, a few steps behind. "Nobody really mentions it, but you used to be really close and proud of us."

"But I still am!"

"True, yet it's still not quite as flourished as before." Typhlosion smirked. "How many of us exhausted ourselves from training, and you'd rally our spirits back up? Not to mention that I can't remember the last time you brought us all out to go eat and drink together."

"Well…I…"

"You used to smile so broadly too," recalled Typhlosion. "You still do, but so often, it's reserved for Nidoking, which obviously makes sense. But the few times that I noticed you picking up your spirits again, especially recently, they get dashed so quickly."

"Haven't I already claimed responsibility for this?" Rhydon shook his head as the other two completed their descent. "It's exactly as you describe it, I've fouled up—"

"Which I will argue away that he hasn't," intervened Nidoking, taking a few steps dwn as well.

"That's not our point at all," contested Gardevoir. "General Rhydon, don't you see? All of those changes, those came from you struggling to let your emotions run freely, and for you to express yourself." She smiled as she approached him. "Finally you get to have your relationship with Nidoking, but you kept yourself orderly and rigid to conceal it, so that your knights would uphold this weirdly perceived image that was never really you." Gardevoir lowered her eyes and tightened her fists. "They made their discomfort for you to fall into, and you went right along with it, trying to somehow meet impossible standards for them and the kingdom at large."

Rhydon deflated and slumped down. He opened his mouth, but sighed, and lowerd his head. "You're…right, but, still, that falls upon me."

"No, no it doesn't," insisted Gardevoir. "Listen to me: the whole problem was that everyone had some kind of expectation of you." She pulled him back up and gazed up at him. "But that's over with now, and that's our point. You're still trying to fit in with some version of the general that isn't who you are, and you don't need to." She smiled to him again, patting him gently. "Don't blame yourself for not fitting what they want you to be. Embrace who you actually are, General, and love yourself." Gardevoir stepped back. "That's how you'll regain the love of your soldiers."

Blinking at her, Rhydon's eyes shifted between Gardevoir, and then the nodding Typhlosion and Samurott.

"Couldn't have told it better myself," admitted Nidoking. "Rhydon, you're supposed to be as much a father to these fellows as I am." He descended down to the main hall, grinning to his lover. "We both try to hold blame over failing to meet their standards and for their shortcomings, but Gardevoir and Typhlosion reminded me that we're supposed to be unconditional about this as well."

He slowly came toward Rhydon, who hesitated and glanced down at the floor, as his tail swayed behind him. Lifting his head, he nodded.

"It really has been a while that I've just enjoyed time with everyone as me, huh?" Rhydon chuckled. "Well, after today, I ought to correct that, or work toward doing so." He smirked. "Thank you all."

"Great! Now that we're past that, let's talk about the other supplies you might need!" Gardevoir clasped her hands together and brought them past her cheek. "Have you crafted centerpieces yet? Oh, or shall I find some game supplies for the party? Wait, who is going to officiate the wedding anyway? Oh, oh! Perhaps I shall be off to the jeweler for—"

"Gardevoir, you don't have to burden yourself with all of that," insisted Nidoking. "We'll work on gathering—"

"It's no burden at all, Your Highness!"

"But—"

"Please, Nidoking, allow me to help you and Rhydon with gathering all of these supplies." She smiled still, though her shoulders relaxed as her hands lowered. "I want this wedding to be one of the most glamorous moments of everyone's lives."

"Well, I don't know if it will quite turn out that way," admitted Nidoking. "Though, I agree I'd like that too. It's just—"

"Milord, you can count on me!" She darted off from the hall. "I'll gather Lilligant and Gallade to assist! We'll make you and Rhydon proud!"

"Hold, I…how does she race off so quickly?"

"At least she hasn't dragged you off with her," murmured Typhlosion. "She's equally good at that."

"Have you any need for us to gather anything for you, Nidoking? Rhydon?"

"No, no, you two have those new moves to learn, isn't that right?" Rhydon smiled. "Those sound like they could be exciting to see!"

"Haven't you mentioned it forms a kind of powerful rainbow?" Nidoking grinned and chuckled. "That would be splendid to show off at the wedding."

"Absolutely! We'll make sure it's more than ready by then."

"Wonderful! You two set off on that." Nidoking lowered his eyes and smirked at Typhlosion. "After all, you've made such progress so far, so keep it up."

"Together, you can accomplish anything," added Rhydon, winking to Typhlosion.

"Uh, yeah…of course." Typhlosion rubbed his arm. "We can, ah, we will!"

"Hey, so, before we head out…" Samurott strolled to a suit of armor. "I wanted to give you something." He held his hand out and gestured to the display.

"Um…one, I think that's Nidoking's," contested Typhlosion. "And two, not only do I have armor, but it's fitted to me."

"Huh? Oh, no, not the…hold on."

Grabbing onto the pole that the armor had in its gauntlet, Samurott lifted it out and twirled it around. Typhlosion watched as Samurott pointed it outward, and grabbed at a wooden sheath on his belt. Pulling a blade from it, Samurott rolled the pole back and fastened the blade to the top of it.

"This is for you," offered Samurott. "It's—"

"A naginata…"

"Yes, very good!" Samurott grinned. "Ha, ah…I was kind of holding off on teaching you about this one, since I figured you might like it." He pulled back and, with a thrust, drove it forward. "Obviously, you've used spears, lances, and glaives before, so, you know how this one would work." Samurott spun it and held it up. "Of course, you're also better with running than I would be. So, I wanted to make sure you know about taking this part off." He removed the blade and stored it back into the sheath. "It's called a saya, and I have one that you can fasten to the staff or a belt. That way, when you're fighting without it and need to move quickly, you put the pole on your back, and you store the blade so you can roll without worrying." Turning back to his friend, Samurott raised the weapons and held them out. "Here you go."

"But…I can't just take that." Typhlosion scratched behind his neck. "You can't have a lot of them."

"Nope. And this is one of my best."

"Then why are you giving it to me?!"

"It's supposed to be a thank you gift, as well as a useful addition to your arsenal." Samurott kept the weapons up and stepped closer to Typhlosion. "If we need something like this going forward, I'll be honored to see you using it. And I'll feel much better knowing you'll have a powerful weapon to battle with."

"Samurott, that's not fair." Typhlosion sank. "I don't have anything for you. And I want to be able to do the same for you."

"That's kind, but I assure you, I'm not hurting for weapons in the slightest!" Samurott beamed, hoisting his sword out. "I have these, of course." He tugged a war fan from his belt. "And, for extra measure, I'll be carrying these as well." Sheathing his weaponry, he nodded to Typhlosion. "Trust me, I'm well armed already!"

"That's not the point…"

"Forgive me, but I don't see what it is, then." Samurott patted Typhlosion's shoulder. "We're friends! We don't need excuses to just give one another gifts. It's so we can support one another."

"…Thank you, Samurott."

"You're welcome!" He started for the doors. "Now, come on! Swampert and Blaziken will be waiting for us, and I want to continue impressing our tutors with our progress!"

"Wait, but I haven't even…oh, ok, I'm coming!"

Chasing after him, Typhlosion hurried off as Nidoking and Rhydon laughed, waving the two off. Bouncing and lightly clapping his hands, Nidoking faced a grinning Rhydon.

"Oh, they're so cute!" Nidoking held up Rhydon's hands. "Do you think we might have the right idea on them? Because I think so!"

"Ha, I'm not sure, but they're definitely good for one another." Rhydon took Nidoking's hands into his. "If nothing else, they'll at least be strong together and protective of one another."

"Come now, Rhydon! We'll want to see better than that!"

"Naturally, but…" Rhydon lowered their arms and slowly released Nidoking's. "Maybe they're just…I suppose they could be fine as they are."

He sighed and took a step back, letting his tail droop against the floor. Nidoking frowned and raised an eyebrow at his fiancé.

"Is something else wrong that I neglected?"

"Perhaps it's just…well, we shouldn't always get so excited over possible couples, right?" Rhydon forced a smile and shrugged. "We should manage expectations, and we shouldn't project our own feelings on them."

"Have we?" Nidoking folded his arms. "It's not like we did with Greninja and Chesnaught, which need I remind you, they came together on their own as well. In fact, I think we should be stepping in more, at least to help those two sort out their feelings a little better!"

"Or, perhaps we should let relationships take their natural course, Nidoking." Rhydon turned a bit from Nidoking, staring out a stained glass window of roses. "I think we intrude far more than we should."

"My point is that we haven't on this at all, my love." He stepped closer and placed his hands on Rhydon's arms. "Didn't you detest waiting?"

"This isn't about me."

"Yet that's all I can think of, when we connect with such pairs." Nidoking smiled. "Gardevoir doesn't quite need any help with Gallade. And I specifically requested Accelgor here for Escavalier." He gently rubbed Rhydon's arms, inching his left hand closer to his partner's face. "Love shouldn't wait."

"If it's love at all."

"It is some form of it."

"Still, we…we shouldn't…"

"…Rhydon, what is this about?" Nidoking rubbed Rhydon's cheek as they faced one another. "Have I done something wrong? Did I speak incorrectly about anything?"

"Not at all, Nidoking!"

"Then what?" He waited as Rhydon's eyes traced the rug designs. "Darling, you should well know that I've been quite poor at reading your mind for decades."

"Maybe that's what it is." Rhydon brought his attention back to Nidoking. "We have had so much time by one another's sides. But now, we're planning a wedding, and we haven't really spent so much time together romantically."

"It's been several years."

"But not out and about, we've kept it so close and quiet, just as we went over before with Gardevoir and Typhlosion." Rhydon dropped his shoulders. "Our people might not be quite as ready as they act, and maybe we're rushing into our wedding." He wrapped his arms around Nidoking's sides. "I love you dearly, with all of my heart, but I…I don't want to make anything difficult on anyone." His eyes twitched as he looked away from Nidoking. "It's not just some of our knights that I've heard dissent over our engagement, I've heard whispers in the town, and gods only know where else—"

"Rhydon."

He jumped a bit at the stern tone of his name. Nidoking guided Rhydon's face back toward him, his hands resting on his general's cheeks. His dark eyes focused on Rhydon's, and the two waited a moment as they settled. Softly, Nidoking massaged Rhydon, and listened as his pulse calmed.

"So much time escaped us. As dearly close as we were, I was a fool to never have noticed just how you pined for me."

"You weren't a fool."

"Did I notice?"

"That doesn't make you foolish."

"Obliviousness is inexcusable—"

"Truly, it isn't, Nidoking." Rhydon chuckled, rubbed Nidoking's waist. "Heavens help me, I wanted you to realize it for so long, but I knew that it might not have been meant to be."

"Or maybe it always was." Nidoking took one of Rhydon's hands and kissed it. "Maybe I should have noticed, and that we could've spent so much longer together. Should have been closer, should have been in each other's arms that much sooner…"

"Nidoking…"

"Do you think I'm so deaf to the whispers?" Nidoking shook his head. "I've heard. But I don't care what they have to mutter about." His hands reached back to Rhydon's cheeks. "No one in this kingdom, no one on this planet, has any more knowledge of our history than you and I. Therefore, no one gets to challenge us on how we want to proceed with each other." He reached up and gently kissed Rhydon's lips, pulling back just a bit shortly after. "To them, it may seem sudden, our engagement, and soon, our wedding. To me, it couldn't be soon enough. To you…oh, you've waited far longer than you ever should have."

"But that's ok."

"To you, because you're far kinder and more patient than I deserve." Nidoking shivered a bit as Rhydon tugged him closer. "How cruel I've been…"

"Gods, Nidoking, you're the exact opposite of cruel." Rhydon's eyes watered a bit. "I can't stand you acting like you've caused such pain."

"Haven't I?"

"Please." Rhydon kissed Nidoking's head, and moved closer to kiss him. They parted slightly as they breathed into one another. "You've no need to beat yourself senseless."

"Then won't you stop doing the same?" Nidoking brushed his eyes and gazed into Rhydon's. "We've waited long enough. I don't care what anyone else thinks. Only you matter for this."

"…If you insist…" Rhydon smiled. "And I'm glad that you do." He chuckled. "Because gods above know how madly I want to marry you."

"By now, you better!"

They laughed together, cuddling close, and leaning in for another kiss. They held this one longer, scooping each other's faces closer, wrapping around and together. Slowly, as they ran short on breath, they pulled back gently, grinning together.

"Tell me, though," restarted Nidoking. "What kind of crown designs should we look into?"

"Who cares?" Rhydon snorted. "You hardly wear yours as it is."

"These will be special wedding crowns."

"Which we'll wear even less!"

"Didn't you hear my mage? We need to be glamorous."

"Oh, please." Rhydon rolled his eyes. "We ought to focus on how we'll proceed into the throne room."

"Should we have the ceremony outside?" Nidoking tapped at his cheek. "I was thinking that, if it is sunny, it might be nice." He smirked. "We live in a grassy kingdom, shouldn't we be around nature as we unite?"

"We don't exactly fit classical themes, so there's no need to abide by any."

"Screw standards, I just want to enjoy my gardens."

"In that case, it might be lovely." Rhydon rubbed Nidoking's back. "Though, maybe we should consider what to do with the rain. Should we go indoors, or should we go for stronger trees and have the ceremony under tents maybe?"

"No, no, indoors if it rains." Nidoking smiled as he leaned into Rhydon. "I want to enjoy the rumbles of thunder and the drops of rain from a comfortable spot, not directly beneath them."

"Ha, then we have sorted." Rhydon rested his head atop Nidoking's. "What else should we consider…?"

Picking up Rhydon's arm and studying his engagement bracelet, Nidoking hummed. "Maybe we should have sent Gardevoir to the jeweler. I don't recall readying our actual wedding bands." He picked Rhydon's wrist into his hand, gazing over the emeralds on the bracelet. "Should we do something similar to this, or a bit further from it? We should match it a bit with colors, at least…"

Holding close to one another, they discussed further details about their wedding supplies and plans, enjoying their ideas for the event.

[Castle Courtyard]

Samurott strode away from the castle, but was tugged back by Typhlosion. He yelped as he was pulled back in.

"Sorry."

"No, it's fine." Samurott blushed. "You've overpowered me a few times lately."

"When you least expect it, sure." Typhlosion shrugged. "Most often, though, you're stronger."

"Not entirely."

"You're just being modest."

"Anyway, what did you need?"

"Hm? Oh, yeah, I forgot to grab my list for supplies." Typhlosion tapped his head. "Might as well pick some goods up while we're at Swampert and Blaziken's shop, right?"

"Makes sense." Samurott leaned against a column. "But hurry back, we don't want to be late for training."

"Right!"

Typhlosion dashed back to the castle, and Samurott turned aside, looking over the courtyard. He watched Golurk wander just outside of it, and ambled off to the woods.

"Wonder what he's up to…"

Studying where the golem strolled off to, Samurott shrugged and gazed to the sky. Something snapped behind him, and he twisted around from the pillar.

"Hey, Samurott."

"Amraldo?" Samurott raised an eyebrow. "What are you doing back here?"

"Uh, I told the others that I forgot something, which is typical of me, but…I really came back to apologize to you."

"Huh?"

"A few months ago, when we had that confrontation between all of us?" Armaldo sank down. "With the three bears?"

"Oh, yes, of course." Samurott tilted his head. "What of it, though?"

"Um…I, uh, I spat out some really insensitive insults to you in particular," recalled Armaldo. He winced and tapped his claws together. "That was…really, really stupid of me, and I-I don't even know where to begin making it right."

"This makes for a good start." He smiled. "Apologies are almost always appreciated, I believe."

"Yeah, but…I should do better than just that." He lowered his head. "I'm just…I've never really been beyond here, and I get so afraid of…no, that sounds like an excuse for my behavior." Armaldo picked his head back up. "I-I'm going to do better, and I'm not letting my allies down again."

"That does make for a good goal, and we'll appreciate it."

"Ok, I got the…"

Armaldo's eyes widened as Samurott spun around, while Typhlosion glared past him to the bug. Pulling out his new naginata, Typhlosion clawed at his belt for the blade.

"Ty, hold on—"

"No." Typhlosion scowled as he grabbed the saya. "I'm still furious with him."

"Ah, I, uh, I better get back to the others." Armaldo scurried away from the pair. "Sorry again, Samurott! And, uh, bye!"

Growling as he stuffed the blade back into its sheath, Typhlosion grumbled while Samurott sighed. He strapped his staff back on.

"What?"

"He was back to apologize." Samurott frowned. "I appreciate your defense for me, as always, but could you take it easy on him?"

"No."

"Why not?" Samurott folded his arms behind his back. "You two used to get along well enough, right? What happened to that?"

"He followed Scizor, I stuck with you and Chesnaught." Typhlosion fumed. "After how he treated you a few months ago, on top of bullying Chesnaught, he doesn't deserve mercy."

"But he specifically came to me to apologize, behind Scizor's back." Samurott shrugged. "Maybe you could relax around him a little?"

"…A little," conceded Typhlosion. "But only because you asked."

"Sure, I'll take it." Samurott smirked. "Though, I've gotten used to you sticking up for me, and again, I really appreciate it."

"You've stuck up for me in the past, so it's only fair." Typhlosion smiled. "Plus, I look out for my friends, few as they might be."

"Oh, stop, you've gotten several since Greninja and the others left." Rubbing his chin a bit, Samurott nodded. "In fact, I think Greninja and Chesnaught consider you a friend, or did before they left."

"Hopefully…"

"Another topic to discuss with them during the wedding party, then!" Samurott tugged at Typhlosion's arm. "Come on. We should be on our way over already."

"Ok, ok, I'm coming."

Both nudged each other a bit as they jogged from the castle and off toward the town, laughing as they chattered along the way.

[Western Square, Springton]

In the quiet space of the otherwise bustling town, three bears watched as a flower dancer spiraled on a wooden stage for them. She twirled around, whipping petals past her as she glided about the platform. Thrusting her leafy arm out, she guided the petals around and past the bears in a surge, as they flew off from the wind. Grinning as they returned their attention to her, the trio applauded her, and she giggled as she sat down on the small stage's edge.

"Beautiful!" Ursaring clapped quickly. "That was wonderful yet again, Lilligant!"

"Oh, thank you, Ursaring." Lilligant tugged at her dress while blushing a bit. "You were right, moonlit practices are really fun."

"Of course!" The brown bear grinned. "You see different things at night than you would during the day, and it's quieter for the observations too."

"Your movements are so fluid," complimented Beartic. "I would think that dancing by the water would help develop that, but you don't need it."

"Actually, that's part of how I practiced." Lilligant swayed and shifted in her seat. "I do go by the river sometimes to dance beside it, and I've studied movements of water a few times to help get a looser flow for steps and movement."

"Huh, so I did have good advice." Beartic smiled. "Still, I feel like you'd benefit from a bit of snow or ice included in some dances." He blinked and shook his head. "I know you're not suited for the cold. But, I do think you might be able to make a marvel out of it, should you be able to slide a bit in."

"Honestly, I think I'd slip and slide around from it more than anything." She laughed with Beartic. "But thank you, I would like to try it some day, if I could ever manage it."

"Just let me know when you're up for something new, I'll help you out." Beartic nodded. "Trust me, I can whip up just the right and gentle amount of shards for a dance."

"Please, she's doing fine." Pangoro snorted. "You really want her to shiver just to look even prettier? She's got that covered already."

Lilligant giggled. "Maybe I look a little nice, but I don't know about that."

"Seriously?" Pangoro shook his head. "Anyone with eyes can tell you that you're lovely. Dancing or not, you stand out beautifully."

"No…do you really think so?"

"Wouldn't tell you that for flattery!"

"That's true." Lilligant chuckled. "Well, thank you very much, Pangoro."

"Sure, sure." He leaned into Beartic, and pulled Ursaring close. "Show us what else you've got. You're doing great."

"Come on, Pangoro, she could use a break," insisted Beartic. "She's danced at least five different routines by now."

"So?" Pangoro shrugged. "She's doing great! Better to keep the momentum going!"

"No, I think Beartic right," chimed in Ursaring. "She should rest a bit, or she'll tire herself out." He tugged at Pangoro's cheek. "Not everyone has your stamina."

"Bah."

"Well, I shouldn't need too long regardless."

"Lil, that's what you told us before this last run," reminded Beartic. "Relax. Your petals are sharper, you routines are splendid, and you've even used a little magic that you've learned." He tugged a tome back from his side and handed it over to her. "You've trained plenty so far, and that's good enough."

"Maybe, but I don't want to slack now. Everyone's counting on me."

"Pangoro…" Ursaring nudged him, and Beartic followed suit.

"Aw, what?" Pangoro folded his arms. "Fine. Lilligant, take a break."

"But I could—"

"Just take it easy." The panda squished closer into Beartic. "Even I have to admit, your progress is better than a lot of recruits we picked up for Emperor Empoleon."

"Huh?"

"We helped him select knights as recruiters back home," explained Beartic. "We didn't exactly do it all the time, but we did need a lot of knights to join, and the three of us have done it the longest."

"Yeah, it was fun testing them," reminisced Ursaring as Beartic stroked him. "Hum…I think Empoleon liked us gathering for him."

"Of course he did, we took the least fuss about it and gathered great additions." Pangoro puffed out his chest. "Heck, we got Machamp, Alakazam, Poliwrath, Politoed, and Weavile for him. Plus, we tested Froslass, Delibird, and Golduck when they came. And, none of them died yet!"

"…None of them what?"

"Uh, you might not know, but Empire knights tend to, um…" Ursaring scratched his head. "Well, it's a bit harsh up north, so some knights struggle with not just the conditions, but going on essential supply runs in a frosty field."

"Oh my, that's terrible."

"It is, but our current roster has lasted for quite a bit." Beartic hugged his partners closer to him. "So, we're doing pretty well up there! Or…they're doing well…and we're here now…"

"Sorry." Lilligant lowered her head. "I didn't mean to bring up bad memories."

"Don't worry about it," grumbled Pangoro. "It's not your fault they shipped us down here and decided we weren't strong enough."

"Maybe they chose you three to come here for a reason?" Lilligant shrugged. "It could be like a mini vacation for you. Have you guys had a real break out there the entire time?"

Each of the bears blinked and exchanged inquisitive expressions with one another. They returned their attention to Lilligant with a collective shrug.

"So, it could be that."

"We don't think it was a coincidence that we were sent off after we lost a practice match," murmured Ursaring. "To your buddy Chesnaught, no less."

"That doesn't make sense, though," affirmed Lilligant. "If anything, they would've just kicked you three out of the army altogether, right? That would make more sense if they thought you were weak, which…if you were recruiters, they wouldn't think that."

"…Have we been assuming wrong for these past few months?" Beartic tilted his head. "I really thought that Abomasnow was just angry with us. Sending me south felt like such a punishment."

"Really, I kind of always wanted to travel somewhere warmer," reminded Ursaring. "In fact, I think I brought it up to, uh…huh." He nodded. "Pretty sure I mentioned it to both Emperor Empoleon and General Abomasnow."

"You had me bring it up in front of them too," realized Pangoro. "Aw, damn it! I didn't think they'd actually send us off over it."

Ursaring sank down and brushed Beartic's arm. "Me neither. Sorry, Beartic. We were just thinking out loud, and they must've taken us too seriously."

"That's ok." He shrugged. "If that's the reason we got sent down here, that's much better than what we came up with before."

"But what if this is permanent?" Pangoro kicked a pebble away. "They wouldn't have just tossed us away if they wanted us to stick around."

"Again, how long has it been since you guys took time away from home to enjoy yourselves?" She waited as the three failed to answer. "See? Maybe you three were really useful back home. But sending you here gave you a new way to live." Lilligant nodded. "I feel like that might be what it was all about: reshaping how you three get to see the world."

"Kind of sucks," insisted Pangoro. "People around here are still a lot more judgmental than back home. Even if I like seeing more green, it's not a fair tradeoff."

"That wouldn't be something we could've accounted for, nor our leaders," admitted Beartic. "Even back home, we weren't free from it."

"No, but it was still nicer, and we miss it." Ursaring lifted his leg over Pangoro's, and winked as the panda scowled at him. "But…we did at least meet a few nice folks."

"True." Beartic smiled. "I never really dreamed of leaving the northern territories, but doing so lead me to meeting you, Lilligant." She winked to him as he chuckled, and pulled his two boyfriends closer. "And, learning that these two bears of mine wanted to go some place greener." He nuzzled them as they wiggled against him. "Come to think of it, I guess…it hasn't been all too bad. Not great, but it's improved."

"Better than it being terrible forever," determined Lilligant. "Anyway, I hope we can help make it nicer here for you guys." She nodded. "If I'm around the castle more, then I can help out with that."

"Sounds good." Pangoro clapped his hands. "Now, enough somber stuff. Show us more!"

"Pangoro…"

"What? She's ready to stun us all again!"

"Stunning is the least of her specialties."

All four jumped up and looked out from the square, as a green reptile sauntered over. He held a bag on his wrist and spun around, posing with a wink to Lilligant.

"Darling, I wish I could dance half as well as you."

"Hey, it's that super gay jeweler!"

"Glad to know my reputation precedes me," muttered the jeweler as he slouched.

"This is Sceptile," introduced Lilligant. "You guys have heard his name, haven't you?"

"Uh, I think so," pondered Ursaring. "We've definitely seen him around."

"Of course you have!" Sceptile wrapped his hands together. "You three are so adorable, sticking close together! Such a sweet triad of bear boys, sticking together all the time."

"We're boyfriends."

"Oh, I know!" He hugged himself together. "Trust me, I wish I had at least one mate around to treat me so nicely, let alone two!" He placed his hand on his hip and glanced aside. "Especially considering that I could have had that, but…" He shook his head. "Oh, but that's not the point." He smiled and waved. "You dears enjoy the show that lovely lady puts on for you!"

"Have…have you been watching?"

"Every so often, yes!" Sceptile chuckled. "Honey, you are just so talented and mesmerizing! If I had all of the time in the world, I could definitely put hours in just watching you go!" He waved his hand and giggled. "Trust me, I've got a sharp eye for the details. Jeweler, after all!"

"Ah, how embarrassing…but, thank you, Mister Sceptile!"

"Darling, please, just Sceptile," joked the reptile. "I'm no one's mister…not yet, at any rate." He tapped his chin. "But, I'm sure I can get that to change." He laughed louder than anyone expected. "Well, I'd love to stay longer, but, I better get back. My shop won't run itself, but that would certainly be something if it could. Take care, dears!"

With another sharp laugh and the sway of his tail, Sceptile strolled away from the square. The bears blinked at him, and turned their attention back to Lilligant.

"Is he always like that?"

"From what I know of him, I think so." Lilligant shrugged. "He's really lively, I suppose."

"That's a good word for it," murmured Ursaring.

"Different strokes," decided Beartic. "At any rate, he's been nice the few times he's been around."

"Yeah, super." Pangoro waved him off. "Enough on that, let's see Lilligant do her best dances again!"

"Actually, she'll have no more of them left to do."

All three groaned and rolled around to Gardevoir, who placed a hand on her hip. Gallade waved from behind her, to which Lilligant waved back to.

"Hi Gallade." Brightening up, she waved quicker to her other friend. "And hi Gardevoir!"

"Hey Lilligant!"

"Can't you kidnap her for magic shows later?" Pangoro folded his arms. "Her dancing has been really developing!"

"You three tell me that all of the time," teased Gardevoir. "As nice as it is that Lilligant built her own fan club, she still has other duties to keep up with."

"Such as?"

"Shopping!" Gardevoir laughed as the three groaned and sulked. "Come, come, surely you three could spend your time doing other business."

"Might as well shop ourselves," offered Ursaring.

"As nice as it is watching Lilligant dance, Gardevoir does make a fair point," reasoned Beartic. "Though, I don't know what we'd need."

"Feel free to check back with Nidoking and Rhydon!" Gardevoir smirked. "They've got a little wedding to plan out, after all."

"Oh yeah, there's that too," realized Ursaring. "Being around gay monarchs, that's another highlight around here."

"Well, King Nidoking is bi," piped up Gallade.

"Duh, but he's in a relationship with a guy," mocked Pangoro. "Quit trying to correct us, Earl guy."

"My name is Gallade."

"Whatever."

"Come on, people, we've got work to do!" Gardevoir clapped her hands. "Lilligant is off to shop with Gallade and I. You three, take off with the others and get to other work that needs to be—"

"Wait, what others?"

"Huh?" Gardevoir folded her arms. "Didn't you notice?"

When the bears and Lilligant tilted their heads to her, Gardevoir rolled her eyes and pointed over to Escavalier and Accelgor, who waved to the quartet.

"…How…how long have they been there?"

"Officially longer than Sceptile was," pointed out Accelgor. "You four really should work on surveying your surroundings."

"Great."

"Nothing to worry about, lads." Escavalier brushed his lances together. "We're just, ah, joining in on watching—"

"Me?" Lilligant buried her head in hands. "Oh, end me now…"

"Wait, that's not…I mean, we did, but that was just—"

"We're also watching the bears," cut in Accelgor.

"Why?" Beartic folded his arms. "You think that we need monitoring?"

"Yes."

"Huh." Beartic blinked. "Blunt."

"Who told you that we did?!" Pangoro hopped up. "We're fine!"

"They just don't want you dealing with crap from before with the others."

The bears and Lilligant stiffened as Bisharp walked out from behind a street sign next to the bugs. He folded his arms while the three bears growled from the sight of him.

"Funny, because as I recall, you were with them," snapped Lilligant.

"More with Golurk than them," reminded Bisharp. "But you're right, I screwed up."

"Repeatedly."

Bisharp raised his hands. "Fair. But, we're past that."

"Really?" Ursaring lowered his eyes as he scowled. "Don't remember the apology."

"You seriously need one?"

"No, but you should damn well give it anyway!" Pangoro stomped forward, but Beartic locked him in place. "Folks have a problem with us, but you barely rear your ugly face around at all!"

"It's often enough to be insulting," grumbled Lilligant.

"Guys, come on, enough." Gallade stepped forward. "Like him or not, Bisharp is part of Nidoking's forces too."

"Barely."

"Lilligant."

"Look, we don't need babysitters at any rate," persisted Beartic. "The three of us have other matters that we could see to, and we don't need those three trailing us around the whole time." He plucked up his partners. "Ursaring, Pangoro, let's be on our way."

"Right." Ursaring waved to Lilligant, and then Gardevoir. "Take care."

"Yeah, yeah…" Pangoro nodded to Lilligant as well, and stormed off with his boyfriends.

Bisharp folded his arms and spun away from the group. Accelgor watched him and shrugged.

"You shouldn't really be surprised." She folded her arms. "They've got a point about you."

"Accelgor—"

"Escavalier, don't."

"That's fine." Bisharp shook his head. "It was nice to try working with you two for a bit, Escavalier, but I should be off. Rhydon assigned a few things for me to fetch too, so I'll just get to that."

"But…" Escavalier watched as Bisharp disappeared past a building around the corner. "…He used to be so much friendlier…"

"Until Chesnaught started dating Greninja," persisted Lilligant.

"No love lost for him, huh?" Gallade rubbed behind his neck. "You do know that you'll be dealing with him as part of Nidoking's army, right?"

"Not that often," contested Lilligant, "but all too much all the same."

"Look, we need to make sure that the bears don't get into too much trouble, or rather, that trouble finds them," declared Accelgor. "So, we're off. You three take care."

She took Escavalier and guided him away, leaving the other three in the square. Lilligant sighed and slid off of the stage, approaching Gardevoir and Gallade.

"Sorry…maybe I'm a little too much with the dancing and the, uh…other thing."

"Nothing to worry about," eased Gallade. He rested a hand on Lilligant's shoulder. "You're just being a firm friend. Those three appreciate it, and I'm sure Chesnaught would too."

"Thanks, Gallade…" She gazed up at him as he smirked to her.

Gardevoir cleared her throat. "Anyway! We should be off, right?"

"But what about Samurott and Typhlosion?"

"They're busy training." Gardevoir waved her hand. "We can always go find them later or something. Come on! We'll be like those three sword swingers of legend and take off on our own!"

"…Weren't they a group of four?"

"Hush, Gallade."

"Yes, dear."

"What is it that we're shopping for?" Lilligant tilted her head as she followed the couple. "I haven't been to a wedding before, much less a royal one."

"Never been to a wedding?" Gardevoir twisted around and scooped up Lilligant's hands, earning a slight blush from her. "Dear, we absolutely need to get you better acquainted with that! After all, what thoughts have you had about yours?"

"Oh, I…never really thought much about getting married, really." Lilligant lowered her head. "I just want to find love first…"

"That's a good enough goal," soothed Gallade. "If you take it slow to start, you'll find someone that's just right for you." He smiled. "Perhaps even in an unexpected place!"

"Huh, maybe." Lilligant perked up. "Thank you, Gallade."

Gardevoir released Lilligant's hands and eyed Gallade, but shook her head. "Anyway, let's get to our shopping. We'll need to get some centerpieces for each table. Perhaps ask about some wedding games to play, as I'm not sure we'll have Rhydon toss a bouquet, unless Nidoking would rather. No, neither will." Gardevoir tapped her cheek. "Huh…it's been a while since I've been to a wedding of two males before."

"You have?"

"Of course, Gallade." She raised an eyebrow at him. "Have none of the weddings you attended been between a same-sex couple?"

"Uh…no."

"Gods, you two are so deprived." Gardevoir shook her head. "No matter, we'll work on it."

As Gardevoir strolled on ahead, Gallade and Lilligant turned to one another, shrugged, and followed after her.

The trio wandered up the northwestern road, making their way to the market shops. They wandered past a few buildings, and Lilligant glanced as a family of bugs unloaded boxes into a new residence. One towered over the others, with fairly awkward claws.

Lilligant turned away before he noticed her staring, and she watched as a cloaked figure slipped past two monkeys. Watching as the figure darted down a narrow alley between two buildings, she slowed her movement a bit, but shook her head as Gallade called and hurried after him and Gardevoir, as the latter continued to ponder wedding arrangements.

"Let's see now…" She counted her list in the air for a moment. "We could also pick up some cake toppers, banners, and…hm, no, they should select music and seating arrangements. Extra signs, though, that'll help!"

"Should we actually buy anything right now?" Gallade set his hands on his hips. "I feel like we should more gather what each store offers and let Nidoking or Rhydon pick." He shrugged. "Final decisions should be theirs."

"Gallade does make a good point," agreed Lilligant. "Maybe we shouldn't get every last thing, only stuff they already approved of." She shuffled closer to Gardevoir. "Do you know what they asked for?"

"…Not…exactly."

"No? Oh." Lilligant stepped back. "Well, that's ok. How about, um…" She rubbed her arms. "We could ask the market vendors for suggestions? Some might just be pushing their products, but if we mention it for Nidoking, they might put some thought behind it?"

"It's worth a shot." As he drummed his hips, Gallade gazed upward. "Maybe shopping wasn't the real goal for today, so much as planning."

"Hey, actually, would you be able to go look for a shop that makes nice banners?"

"Is there one—?"

"Probably, but you go look on ahead!" Gardevoir tugged Lilligant aside. "I think Lady Lilligant here is a bit tired, so we'll catch up shortly."

"Um…ok."

Pivoting around, Gallade hurried off to the stores up the road ahead. Lilligant shuddered as she gazed down to Gardevoir's hands, but slouched as they slipped away from hers. She slowly looked up to Gardevoir, who placed one hand on her hip and the other behind her head.

"Lilligant, is there anything going on there?"

"Huh?" Lilligant blinked and blushed. "Uh, um, what do you mean?"

"With you and…" Gardevoir glanced behind her. "…Gallade."

"What?" With a hard blink, Lilligant shook her head. "Him?"

"Yes."

"Uh, no." She deflated as Gardevoir folded her arms. "…What gave you that idea?"

"Just, well, this past week, you two seemed a bit chatty with one another. And today, I don't know, but you're both very agreeable." Gardevoir sighed and hugged herself. "Look, I know you were telling me to relax a few months back over him, so, I just wanted to…" She sighed and looked away. "Honestly, you're not interested in him, are you?"

Lowering her head, Lilligant tugged on her dress and stared at the ground. "Not at all. I'm just trying to be friends with him at all." She swayed a bit, but stopped quickly after trying. "In fact, I'm trying to get along at all with him."

"Huh?" Gardevoir returned her attention to Lilligant with an inquisitive look. "How do you mean? Have you two had a disagreement or argument that I missed?"

"No, Gallade's…nice." Lilligant narrowed her eyes. "He's really, really nice, and almost perfect in too many ways, now that I think about him." She kicked at the ground a bit. "It's actually really frustrating."

"Now you've got me confused." Gardevoir tapped Lilligant's shoulder to get her attention back on her. "Why are you jealous of Gallade?"

"Because…" Lilligant sulked and turned away. "He has…"

"Has what?"

"You." Lilligant blushed as she sank down. "I'm annoyed with him because he has you and is closer than I'll ever be."

"Oh, dear, no." Gardevoir smiled and patted Lilligant. "What a fool I've been! That I even considered that my close friend would ever…" She shook her head. "Lilligant, you are one of my best friends nowadays, so you never need worry—"

"That's not how I meant it, Gardevoir."

"…No?" Gardevoir frowned, took her hand away, and studied Lilligant. "…I…I'm afraid I don't understand, then."

"He's dating you, Gardevoir, and I…" Lilligant inhale and slowly exhaled. "I want that for myself."

"…To date…?" Gasping, Gardevoir smacked the side of her head. "Oh, I'm a high grade fool. Lilligant, I—"

"Please don't." Lilligant slowly looked up to Gardevoir, face flushed over. "I know you're not interested in me like that, and I know that you wouldn't be looking at other ladies like that either." She blinked at Gardevoir's pink eyes and turned away. "It's just something that budded these past few months, ever since the others went away, and I've been trying to get over it. After you took the time to spend days alone with me, teaching me magic, encouraging my dancing, and just…sharing time together, I just couldn't get past it." Lilligant shook her head. "But that's ok, because I know that it's not to be requited, and that we should just be friends." She nodded and spun back to Gardevoir. "So, I'll work on getting past it, I promise. I just…hope this doesn't make anything awkward."

"Lilligant, honey, no, not a bit." Gardevoir smiled, tears lining her eyes. "Oh, I wish that I could…" She shook her head. "That was so flattering to hear, really. I'm sorry that I can't reciprocate, but you're so sweet, Lilligant, and I really appreciate you telling me this." Gardevoir picked up her friend's hands. "My mind's made up. Once we're settled on wedding matters, I'll help you find a girlfriend."

"Um, maybe, or a boyfriend." Lilligant glanced aside. "I do like either or, honestly, though I do prefer ladies…by a bit or more." She giggled. "Guess that's how I was able to make fast friends with Chesnaught."

"Of course." Gardevoir chuckled. "He's very loyal, as he never mentioned that to anyone once."

"Greninja knows." Lilligant shrugged. "I told him, but…they're the only two." She blushed at Gardevoir. "Well…I guess you do too."

"Yes, and now your secret is safe with me!" Gardevoir grinned. "Oh, but you know, we could tell this one waitress at the—"

"Gardevoir."

"Secret keeping, got it!"

"Thank you." Lilligant brushed the leaf behind her head. "Gallade is probably waiting on us, so we better get going."

"Yes, yes, you're right." Gardevoir stepped forward, but spun back. "Are you sure you're ready to go?"

"Yeah." Lilligant nodded. "It feels a little better to have gotten it out, actually."

"Good. Come on!"

Gardevoir hurried forward, as Lilligant lagged behind her a bit. She sighed and stared back down at the ground, clutching at her chest. Looking back up, she jerked back as Gardevoir hurried over to her, and beamed as she grabbed onto her friend. Tugging her further up the road, the two ventured onward into the town.

[Northern Road, Springton]

Behind a shop along the market road, Samurott and Typhlosion stepped before their tutors and turned away from them, facing one another. Blaziken and Swampert watched as their students focused.

"Remember, unspoken oaths this time," reminded Swampert.

Both nodded, as Typhlosion smirked and lit his collar. Samurott took a deep breath, and slowly exhaled it.

"Shouldn't they face the targets?"

"Hush, Blaziken."

Sprinting forward as the fire crackled, Typhlosion charged and raced around the yard. Samurott eyed him as his partner focused back on him, shifting his steps, and lightly scooping the space around him.

Slowly, Samurott waved the air before him, with light water whipping from his hands, as he shifted his stance around. Typhlosion spiraled his arms as he ran, with embers encircling them. Samurott rotated his wrists, and followed with his arms, as water swirled in the air around them. Typhlosion raced toward him, flames bubbling as he hurried closer.

Their eyes met as they smirked to one another.

Samurott faced the target, lifting one arm as Typhlosion neared, mirroring his stance. Simultaneously, both lifted their arms and fists closest to one another.

Beneath the sandbag target, pillars of fire and water twisted together, and burst up from below, encircling and bursting around the sandbag.

Towering to the sky, the mixture evaporated as a rainbow appeared, and trailed back to Typhlosion and Samurott, as both exhaled and grinned. They laughed and bumped their arms together, as Swampert and Blaziken applauded.

"Excellent work, that was truly a marvel," congratulated Swampert. "You two improved remarkably these past months!" He rubbed his chin and smiled. "Such a combination is definitely going to be useful going forward."

"Superb! That's how you two really bring it together!" Blaziken kept clapping. "Did you feel how synchronized you were? That's how energized you should always feel together with these!"

"That was incredible!" Typhlosion bounced and punched at the air. "I knew we were going to get it this time, but actually doing it was even better than I thought!"

"Oh, it just feels so liberating to get that just right." Samurott relaxed his shoulders and rotated his wrist, flexing his hand. "I still want to develop strength behind my Water Pledge, but as long as we can combine it, that's fine."

"Didn't you think that was powerful enough?" Typhlosion spun around to Samurott. "It went so well together with the Fire Pledge!"

"Yeah, but we're still trying to use these in combative situations," reminded Samurott. "Performing it well is the first part, but using these while battling? We still need to progress that."

"Now that you two can perform it with such might and majesty, you should have no trouble translating it to battle tactics," assessed Swampert. "Blaziken and I can help you as practice partners when you might need them, but it will really take what you know to help it flourish."

"We're not exactly combat experts, even if we can fight a bit," admitted Blaziken. "But, if you're ready to use those Pledges together, then Swampert's right, you'll know how to fight with them during your training sessions." He tightened his fists. "And then you'll really be ready to use their full power!"

"That will be our next step, then," determined Samurott. He bowed to the tutors. "Thank you both very much. We couldn't have learned these without you."

"Hey yeah, thanks for everything," chimed in Typhlosion.

"Ah, we're just glad we could help—"

"Absolutely! You're welcome!" Blaziken wrapped his arm around Swampert and leaned closer to the pair. "Hey, maybe spread the word to some friends, tell them to swing by for lessons, and we could always have them order some sessions with us! Who knows, maybe—?"

"Blaziken, there are few that can learn these powers to begin with," grumbled Swampert. "We're lucky we were able to teach anyone else."

"Ha, yeah, well…" Blaziken brushed back his hair. "You never know who they might meet, right?"

"You know, I was wondering if you could give me some extra advice on something else," brought up Typhlosion. "The, uh, thing I told you about, last time."

"Huh?" Blaziken lowered his arms, but then snapped his fingers. "Oh, right! That!"

"How did you forget about that?" Swampert shook his head. "Samurott, if it's not too much trouble, could you get that destroyed sandbag?"

"Sure." Samurott walked toward it, pointing around the side of the shop. "I just have to douse it again and then make sure it's cool before tossing it with the trash?"

"Yes, thank you."

Typhlosion watched as Samurott ambled out of range, and spun back around to his tutors. They smiled as he shuddered, balling his fists and bringing them together.

"You guys are positive that we've got that combination?"

"Yes."

"And there's nothing else—?"

"Will you quit worrying?" Blaziken dropped his hands onto Typhlosion's shoulders and shook him steady. "Today is the perfect day to do it!"

"Yeah, I know, I just…" Typhlosion sighed and looked down. "He seems like he's in a good mood for it, right?"

"He has to be, so it'll be best to try now," assured Swampert. "But remember, you have to keep an open mind."

"Don't make him feel even more nervous," snapped Blaziken. "Typhlosion, don't listen to him. This is the best time!" He waved his hand around. "Just give him a second to process, he'll be all, 'oh wow, I feel the same,' and you'll be all set!"

"That's absolutely not how it works."

"Then how'd I get you?"

"By being annoying."

"Persistent!"

"You're just lucky you're cute, and that I'm weak-willed."

"Is that how you admit you wanted me so badly—?"

"Um." Both jumped and turned back to Typhlosion. "So. Can I…use here for it? You know, no one on street, and…well, I don't know if I should wait to ask back at the castle—"

"Definitely do it here!" Blaziken beamed. "We've got the right privacy, and enough space that you shouldn't have any eavesdroppers."

"The word 'privacy' covered that."

"Quit being smart, Swampert."

"No. That's my Swampert smartness."

"Gods, you're a dork, but adorable."

"Uh, you guys?"

They both glanced at Typhlosion, as Samurott walked over. He shifted his gaze from Typhlosion to the couple, and raised an eyebrow at them.

"…Oh, I, uh, I think I heard the door's bell!" Blaziken grinned and hurried into the store. Once within, he called, "Swampert, we've got a bit of a crowd!"

"Of course we do." Swampert sighed and swung back to his students. "If you two don't mind, could you just gather the good targets, and put them against the wall there?"

"We'll get right on it." Samurott strolled back to the sandbags.

"Thank you again, Samurott! And you too, Typhlosion." He lowered his eyes and gestured to Samurott. "Take your time and good luck."

"Right, yeah, ah…thank you. And thank Blaziken too."

"Will do. Go." With a wink, he disappeared into his shop.

Taking a deep breath in, Typhlosion shook his hands and marched toward Samurott. He slowed as he neared, and shivered while watching Samurott place a target against the wall. He swallowed hard as the sea lion turned around.

"Ha, uh, hey."

"Hey." Samurott smiled. "Good work today. I'm glad we finally pulled it off."

"M-me too. Uh, you too? Wait…" Typhlosion gripped his head. "Um…"

"Don't worry, I get it." Samurott chuckled. "We both did great."

"Yeah!" Typhlosion forced a grin. "We're pretty great together, huh?"

"Of course. How did they put it…?" Samurott straightened up and placed a fist on his chest. "Mighty and majestic! Marvelous!" He smirked as Typhlosion chuckled. "It's been fun training with them, right?"

"Definitely!" Typhlosion watched as Samurott scooped up another target, plucking its stake from the ground. "Oh, pass it."

"Thanks."

He handed it over to Typhlosion, who propped it against the wall next to the first, and they placed the other two against them after. Samurott wiped his hands and nodded, turning around for the shop.

"Oh, uh, Samurott!"

"Hm?" He twisted back to Typhlosion. "What is it?"

"Um."

Opening his mouth, Typhlosion hesitated, as he gazed to Samurott. A gentle breeze blew past him, as his whiskers waved in the wind. Trees swayed a bit in the distance behind him, while some clouds drifted in the deep blue sky, accenting nicely with Samurott's darker blue skin. He raised an eyebrow as Typhlosion bit his lip.

"Are you doing all right?"

"Y-yeah." Typhlosion coughed. "Uh. Just…happy?"

"Still riding that excitement, then?" Samurott chuckled. "Don't burn out all of your energy now. We should still see if we could meet up with Gardevoir and the others."

"Actually, uh, how about…" Typhlosion shrugged. "Just you and me?"

"Huh?"

"Us, um, how about we just spend a day together?" He smiled a bit. "Like, yesterday, when we got lunch, and then walked the garden?"

"Or the day before when we sat by the river and skipped stones." Samurott folded his arms. "But we haven't been around the others much since then. Almost not at all this past week, come to think of it."

"No, but…" Typhlosion clawed at his head. "It's also kind of nice, just us? And, to be fair, Gardevoir's been training with Lilligant. And she made friends with the bears. And everyone else has done their own things too, so, it's not like we missed anything by being alone together."

"Perhaps." Samurott drummed at his elbow. "But still, that's all the more reason—"

"Ok, ok, we can go find the others!" Typhlosion sharply inhaled. "But, before that, can we…?" He heaved out and slouched. "Just…one second…"

"Ty?"

"Sorry, I, um, just needed…" He scratched at his shoulder. "Doesn't matter. So, uh, I wanted to ask about something before we go, while we're still alone."

"Sure?"

"Great." Typhlosion cleared his throat. "So, I've…well, we've been getting pretty close these past few months."

"Yeah." Samurott glanced aside and then back to Typhlosion. "Hence my gift this morning."

"Right! And, you know, I was just…I was thinking…" He clawed at his arm. "Do you, well, do you like spending time with me? Outside of training and all?"

"Of course." Samurott smiled. "We're friends."

"We are, but, uh…" Typhlosion swallowed. "But, how would you compare me to the others?"

"Huh?"

"You know, like, am I just an ok friend, or am I a really good friend, or a best friend, or…or something else?" He lowered his head as a heavy blush formed across his face. "Not that, you know, I'm just curious."

"Are you worried about how I value you?"

"Sort of?"

"Don't be." Samurott placed his hand on Typhlosion's shoulder. "You're important to me, Typhlosion. There's no need to worry about that."

Exhaling past his teeth, Typhlosion picked his head up. "Good, that's…reassuring, but, not quite…that's not what I meant."

Blinking and taking his hand back, Samurott folded his arms and raised an eyebrow again. "Very well…you've lost me."

"Probably because I'm fumbling around what I want to tell you."

"Then just—"

"Tell you, yeah, I know." Typhlosion shook his head. "Just…ok."

They waited for a moment in silence, and Samurott shifted his eyes back and forth, settling back on Typhlosion. He watched as the honey badger gathered himself and straightened up.

"…Well…?"

"Give me just a second to get it all out."

"I have been."

"Look, I…I think I…"

"Typhlosion."

"I think I love you."

Samurott blinked a few times, frowning as he shook his head. He massaged his temples and shifted slightly, refocusing on Typhlosion.

"Sorry, I think I misheard."

"No you didn't."

"…What?"

"Ok, so, we've spent a lot of time together lately, and, I just…it's been really, really nice." Typhlosion smiled. "We, you know, trained and worked out together a lot. But, we've also done a few different things together too." His face flushed deeper as he looked down. "Just being around you really gets me fired up, or, I guess, makes my heart race. So, I…I don't know what else to call it."

"…This is a joke, right?" Samurott smirked. "Is it because of the naginata, or was I too dramatic with the Pledges, or—?"

"No, no, I'm being serious, Samurott!"

"But, you're straight. You took Lopunny to the ball, and you've always blabbered on about dating females."

"Right, maybe in front of the other knights," corrected Typhlosion. "But not you." He sighed and shook his head. "The only reason I ever did in front of them was because I didn't want to paint a target on my back. You know how well it worked out for Chesnaught." Again, Typhlosion chuckled. "I can't believe I actually even managed to take Lopunny to the ball, and even that was a disaster."

"Wait, you mean you were never interested in her?"

"She looked like a hot female, that's the only reason I ever picked her!" Typhlosion huffed in frustration. "Why do you think she absolutely hated being with me, and why do you think that I had no clue how to please her? Because I was that dumb? Don't answer that. The truth is that I didn't know her, didn't want to take the time to know her, and didn't want to speak with her again afterwards." He snickered. "I guess I did that a little too well."

"So then…now that I think about it, you never…but I thought…" Samurott released his arms and stared blankly at Typhlosion. "You're…not joking?"

"Wow, again, no." Typhlosion laughed into a grimace. "I really do like you."

"…Oh." Samurott blushed a bit and rubbed behind his neck. "I…I had no idea."

"Yeah, I…I kind of figured." Typhlosion winced. "This is…this is sudden, isn't it?"

"Very, at least for me."

"That makes sense." Deflating and slumping further, Typhlosion gazed away. "I figured I should've waited longer, but today seemed nice, and I thought it might be worth a shot."

"Well—"

"Silly, yeah, I-I don't know what I was thinking." Typhlosion forced a chuckle. "Ha, uh, I don't think I, you know what, I just…" He shook his head. "Forget it, we should just get going."

"But—"

"Don't worry, you can just forget about it, and I'll, uh, I'll get over it." He forced more laughter. "This is so embarrassing. And you had no clue that I liked you, I really, really should've hinted at that more."

"Typhlosion, really, I didn't." Samurott sighed. "But that's not—"

"Did you know that I was gay?"

"Not at all." Samurott's shoulders fell. "I just…I took you at your word, so—"

"Why do you think I knew about the Miracle Seed?" Typhlosion shook his head as Samurott's eyes widened. "Don't tell me you didn't realize it then either."

"Wait, that? Back then, with the…?" Samurott shook his head. "I-I didn't…wait, did you, uh, you mean to tell me—?"

"You questioned it, so I figured you were catching on, just barely." Typhlosion hung his head, but picked it back up, still flushed. "I had a crush on Chesnaught a while back too." Samurott's mouth dropped open. "Wow, ok, definitely missed that one."

"He's far from the only Grass Type around!"

"No, but, on our roster?"

"That didn't…I-I didn't think…" Samurott dragged his claws down his face. "I can't believe this."

"And I can't believe that I've crushed on two guys that fell for Greninja instead."

"What?!"

"What?" Typhlosion tilted his head. "Was that a secret?"

"That-that's absurd!" Samurott shook his head wildly. "I don't have a crush on Greninja!"

"Do you have any idea how you tripped over yourself when he was still around? And how long you took to bounce back after he let?" Typhlosion snickered. "Gardevoir took them leaving the hardest, but you weren't too chipper about it the first month."

"But that doesn't mean…I wasn't, I'm not…" Slouching, Samurott sighed. "How long ago did you figure it out?"

"Oh, I figured that ever since he arrived and you were hurrying over to be his best friend ever." Typhlosion rolled his eyes. "It took me ages to find out that Chesnaught was gay, because of how desperately he was trying to bury it. Once I did, though, I tried to keep his attention on me until I figured out just how I could get closer to him. By the time I was actually coming up with something, Greninja showed up and swiped him away from me." He tapped at his head. "You think I wouldn't pick up his same invested cues that you shared? The long, pining stares, the weapon gift, constantly strolling by his side, disregarding personal space…you two are really, really obvious about it. Everyone else here is just daft and fail to notice those kinds of things." Typhlosion shrugged. "Funny, because we probably could've worked together, had we known well enough about each other and our interests."

Samurott buried his head in his hands and dragged them past his face. "You've been in love with him for that long…"

"No, not 'in love,' it was a crush." Typhlosion sighed. "Mutual relationships determine you being 'in love,' that's when it's used." He glanced aside. "If it's not reciprocated, then you're not in love at all."

"Typhlosion…"

"Don't, sorry, that wasn't a dig."

"But—"

"Look, I moved past him, that's my point," insisted Typhlosion. "It's not like I'd go nuts if he came back and broke up with Greninja or something." He rolled his eyes and shook his head. "I, um…I just figured…" He shuddered and whipped his head around, brushing his wet eyes. "It's nothing. Actually, it's my fault for being so careful with not letting anyone catch on." He forced a weak laugh. "Everyone else hated me so much, and I didn't want to give them more reasons to, so I made sure no one noticed my interests."

"That's not—"

"Then after it all, when you guys started hanging out and forming your own group, and both Greninja and Chesnaught were the center of it, I tried really hard to be at least maybe likeable, just slightly, and then I'd be able to open up." Typhlosion hung his head down. "But that never happened, because they left, and then everyone acted so upset over it, and I couldn't really figure out how to set this up right in the end."

Samurott reached out. "Please, Typhlosion—"

"No, just, forget about it, please, let's just drop it." Typhlosion pushed his hands away and pulled back from him. "This went from a sloppy confession to…I don't know, me dumping out a whole lot more than I ever wanted to." He smirked at Samurott. "Let's just…let's take off, find everyone, and head back."

"Come on—"

"Please just let it go." Typhlosion looked into Samurott's eyes, and the sea lion staggered back. "Please?"

Though Samurott opened his mouth again, Typhlosion hurried past him and into the shop. Hesitating, arms dangling, Samurott stared at the ground. Squeezing his eyes shut and inhaling in, he struggled to exhale and slowly walked after Typhlosion.

"What have I done…?"

He walked into the shop, and listened to the front door snap shut. Speeding up, he darted past Swampert and Blaziken, trying to avoid their questioning gazes, and dashed out the door. He stopped as he spotted Typhlosion ahead of him, and stepped toward him.

"Typhlosion, can we just—?"

An explosion set off down the street and several citizens screamed. Samurott jolted up, twisting away from Typhlosion. They both hurried down, but stopped short as a voice rang out.

"Citizens of Springton, don't you worry!" Electabuzz laughed as his fists sparked, tossing a bolt at crates in front of a store, blasting them apart. "We've come to fix this place up for the better!"

Glancing at one another, Typhlosion and Samurott nodded, drawing their weapons, and rushing at the ruffian.

A cloaked figure slid onto their path, and spun around, sweeping at the two and knocking them back. Electabuzz turned and snickered.

"You two again, huh?" He sneered as the knights pushed themselves back up. "Good. We got some new friends to join in this time, and they helped us set up." Electabuzz laughed. "Let's get started."

Staring down the cloaked figure blocking Electabuzz, Samurott and Typhlosion tightened their grip on their weapons. Another blast sounded from the distance, and the town's new chorus of screams interrupted the day.

...

Come on, the Empire had all of the fun already, so, we have to bring some chaos to Grass Fields! Hope you didn't forget about those ruffians from the previous town chapters.

Anyhow, romances and rejections! I was aching to have some Nidoking and Rhydon time again, because this story deprived me of it, so I gave them the opening section. They're still cute husbands-to-be, right? Yes, of course. Lilligant had a few hints to liking Gardevoir back in other chapters, but I wanted to get that out of the way here, since she'll be getting someone in the next story.

As for popular underdog ship, Typhlosion and Samurott, well...well. Well. Slow burn is fun, right everyone? Yeah? No? Hmm. To be honest, I had this scene entirely rewritten, since Typhlosion developed in a completely different direction than I expected him to be, and I needed to fix that up for him. (He was actually going to be a lot...angrier.) But either way, I wanted him to get his feelings for Samurott out there, and debated on having it out for this chapter or the next. I settled on this one, because why wait? Break those hearts today!

Oh, and the bears! They exist! And they're not just an afterthought! Who knew?! ...I tried.

So, let's recap a bit: Lilligant and Typhlosion are crushed, Samurott is confused more than ever, new Pledge moves are finally learned, shopping never got done, chaos is unfolding over the town in a bit of an echo to the Iceberg Empire, and...oh, hey, all of the knights are in the town, aren't they? I wonder what that means for the next chapter. You know, besides a battle. Or two. Or more.

Feedback is my bread and butter, so please, feel free to share some thoughts around here. And, of course, thank you for reading.