"...Buneary? Hey. Buneary!"

Dawn slowed to a halt, and Ash, Rosemary, and Empoleon stopped shortly ahead of her. Her first caught Pokémon had stopped in the middle of the dirt path yet again, with her back to the group.

"...This has to be the hundredth time," Ash frowned, rubbing his neck.

~Forty-sixth,~ Rosa corrected Ash.

Hours ago, the group had stopped for lunch after leaving Vermilion City. Buneary had refused to return to her ball, after being informed of Pikachu's predicament. In fact, she'd been quite inconsolable in general. Hardly eating, but opting to walk alongside the rest of the group.

"...Bun." Buneary answered absently. She hadn't turned her attention fully back to the group, so Dawn crouched down beside her, instead.

"I hate to be a downer, girl," Dawn said, "but I don't think we're going to make it on time if you keep stopping to look back."

Buneary exhaled heavily, turning to face her trainer. Dawn was having trouble determining exactly what was behind those black, beady eyes. It frustrated her.

"This kind of reminds me of when Empoleon ran off. Remember? Back at the end of our Sinnoh journey." She smiled weakly, thinking back on what'd been a rather emotional day for everyone involved. "You must be sad that he's not here, right? No need to worry, though. Ash promised, he'll be back with us in no time!" She promised, with a hand on Buneary's shoulder.

The rabbit made a sour face, and quickly shrugged Dawn's hand off. "Buneary!" She retorted, hopping off to lead the group, once more.

The incident had played over and over in Dawn's mind, since then. Buneary hadn't stopped to look back since then, but somehow, her failure to communicate with her Pokémon felt worse.

"Dawn…? Dawn!"

"Huh!?" Dawn snapped back to reality. Ash was staring at her. Empoleon and Rosa were too, though Buneary looked more distant. "Sorry, guys. I guess I spaced out for a minute."

"You've been spacing out for a while," Ash replied. He gestured over his shoulder with a jerk of his thumb. "Check it out. We're here."

"...Oh!" Dawn's eyes widened. A small city was just up ahead, buzzing with noise, lights, and advertisements abound. "Scissor Street… So, we did make it. Oh, I hope we're not too late!"

"Nah." Ash shook his head. "We made great time. Your appointment's at three, right?"

"Right," Dawn replied.

"Then, we're good! Check out our shadows. It can't be any later than noon!"

Dawn glanced down, and saw that there basically wasn't a shadow at all. "...Oh. Yeah. I wouldn't have thought of that."

"You learn to keep track of that stuff when you're on the road a lot," Ash shrugged. "But, we've got plenty of time! We really kept up the pace to break even, after Buneary slowed us down."

He quickly regretted his words. Moreso, when Buneary flinched and started to hop ahead, again. He guiltily fumbled with his cap. "Me and my big fat mouth… Sorry, Buneary."

"Neary."

Dawn reached to fiddle with her bracelet anxiously, only to realize that again, she regretted leaving it behind. The gloom hanging over the group was palpable. "Well, we shouldn't sit around moping for the next few hours… Hey! I know! Remember what Suzie asked us?"

"...Oh! Yeah. How'd I forget? She asked us to stop by," Ash recalled. "I guess we should do that, long as we've got a few hours to kill."

Without any objections to the plan, Ash, Dawn, and their Pokémon ventured toward Breeder's Lane.

"Ash, are you sure you know where it is?" Dawn asked, frowning. One flashy shop after the next had caught her eye, but there'd been no sight of Suzie, so far.

"Can't say I am," Ash admitted. "It's been years since I've been here. How am I supposed to remember the exact spot?"

"Well at this rate, I'm not even sure if we'll have time to stop by," Dawn complained.

~Ma? Pa? We're already here.~ Rosa tagged on their jackets, and pointed across the street. A simplistic looking studio with open windows and golden framing sat on the corner.

"Hey, yeah! That does look familiar," Ash agreed. He led the group towards the shop. "Good goin', Rosa."

~Forgot I could just sense people out, didn't ya?~ She asked.

"Sometimes, it's easy to forget we both have something so handy," Ash admitted. "You must have sensed Suzie!"

~Well, yeah.~ Rosa answered. ~And you wouldn't believe-~

Ash was already at the front door, which bore a cutesy emblem of a Ninetales on the glass. The jingle of a bell rang inside the store as he stepped into the cool indoors.

~Guess he'll find out for himself.~ Rosa shrugged, entering after Dawn and Empoleon. A fragrant, gentle aroma hit her on the way in, catching the Lucario off-guard. It made her feel oddly at ease.

"So, this is Suzie's salon!" Dawn said, looking about. A front desk sat directly in line with the entrance, but it was currently unoccupied. A lounge with cozy-looking plush seats sat towards the front of the shop, with multiple elevated tables out on display. "It looks… surprisingly simple."

"That's Suzie for you," Ash explained. "She was always saying something about 'substance over style.' What's on the inside counts most when it comes to Pokémon, after all."

"Well, I don't know if I totally agree with that. Aesthetics are also important," Dawn replied. "But, if you're a breeder, I can understand why you'd put simplicity first!"

"That's a great observation! But, that's only one part of the philosophy, here at 'To the Nines.'" At the other end of the lobby, a Ninetales with shining, pristine coat sat on a bench, where a spiky-haired man was busy running a brush through her tails. "To bring out the best health and appearance in any Pokémon, we emphasize both substance and style." The man looked over his shoulder with a coy smile. "But of course, I know you two would know that better than most."

"Brock!?" Ash and Dawn exclaimed in unison.

Standing up from his seat, Brock turned to face his friends. He wore a pink apron with a Ninetales decal, over his orange sweatshirt and olive green pants. "The one and only."

Ash's eyes widened. "Hey, wait. That's how you got us here, Rosa! You didn't just sense Suzie…"

~I was trying to tell you.~ Rosa huffed, walking over to Brock with a paw on her hip.

"Well, well… Look who it is!" Brock marveled at the Lucario, reaching to ruffle her head. Rosemary quickly shrugged it off, making Brock smile. "Right, I'm sorry. You've really grown, Rosemary! And in such a short time…"

Rosa nodded sternly. ~I've gotten a lot stronger. I've had to, with everything going on.~

That answer disturbed Brock, shown in his scowl and scrunched nose. "That reminds me, actually…" He apologized to Ninetales, and approached Ash and Dawn to speak more discreetly. "It's a relief to see all of you. I've been quite worried."

"Yeah. Mom told us you called," Ash replied.

"Sorry we missed you," Dawn added.

Brock shook his head. "Don't be. I'm sorry I didn't get to check on you sooner." His gaze lingered on Ash, then. Enough that the youth noticed, shifting uncomfortably before the inevitable question came.

"Hey, Ash. Where's Pi-"

"Welcome to 'To the Nines!' How can I…" Suzie gasped, coming out from the hallway leading to the back of the shop. "Ash, Dawn…" She cupped a hand over her mouth, frowning. "It's nice to see you both. I've… seen the news, I'm afraid. I'm terribly sorry."

"...Thanks," Dawn settled on saying, not quite sure how to respond.

Ash shrugged. "Stuff happens. What can you do?"

"That's quite a concerning mentality to have," Suzie replied with a frown. Before she could say more, though, Brock's hand fell on her shoulder, and she got the message. "...But, that's your business, I suppose." She ran a hand through her hair. "May I ask a question, though, Ash?"

"I knew this question was coming anyway," Ash grumbled. "...Peeks isn't here with me. He's back in Vermilion City." He could see on Brock and Suzie's faces that that alone wouldn't suffice. He awkwardly rubbed his arm. "He got diagnosed with Poké Training Strain Disorder, from when he got captured by Team Rocket."

"He had a bad episode when we ran into more Team Rocket creeps," Dawn explained. "So, Ash decided to leave him in the care of Lieutenant Surge. He said he'd be able to help."

Buneary looked off, fiddling anxiously with her paws.

"...Oh, dear. Poor Pikachu— Peeks, you said?" Suzie corrected.

"New nickname," Ash answered curtly. "He asked for it, when I re-caught him."

"That's horrible," Brock grumbled, balling up a fist. But, he swallowed his anger, clapping a hand on Ash's shoulder. "But, if Lieutenant Surge has more knowledge in that area then you do, then I think it was a wise decision."

"Yes, very wise," Suzie agreed, forcing a smile. "That's a very mature move to make on behalf of your partner. I think you deserve a lot of credit for that, as a trainer."

"Yeah, right. Thanks." Ash muttered out quickly. He was already getting sick of this topic. "Look, it's fine! It's fine. I'll see him again soon, so that's enough about me. Brock, what're you doing here?"

Brock hummed thoughtfully, but ultimately let Ash drop the conversation. "Classes are out for the summer. So, I decided to spend some time with Ninetales, and learn from Suzie and her husband."

"Her husband… Oh! You mean Zane!" Ash exclaimed.

"Yes, that's right." Suzie smiled, albeit strained, given the last topic. She followed Brock's lead. "We got married, and decided to finally jointly run the shop together. He's actually busy with a customer, right now. It's really been a joy to work with him." The Breeder coughed into her hand. "But, enough about me. I'm sure you've all come to have your Pokémon looked at, yes?"

"That would be great, if you wouldn't mind!" Dawn volunteered. "Actually, Suzie… We're here because we have an appointment with a Poké Stylist in town, in a few hours. She wanted to see my Buneary," she gestured to the rabbit at her feet.

"Oh! Your Buneary. Yes, I've seen her photoshoots here and there, though I've never seen her in person. It's an honor."

"Neary," Buneary muttered, looking off with a scowl.

"Ah… She must be in a bad mood, all things considered," Suzie said. "That's quite understandable."

"Buneary loves Peeks," Dawn whispered to Suzie. "So, she's pretty upset that he's gone."

"Bun! Buneary!" Buneary shouted back with a glare.

"Buneary…!?" Dawn winced at her partner's scolding. "...Oh, crud. Of course you could hear me, with your ears. But, it's not something to be ashamed of!" She insisted. "You just need to remember; No need to worry! I'm sure you can at least pull it together for the photoshoot, right?"

"Bun-Bun." The rabbit responded curtly, rolling her eyes.

"Now, now," Suzie soothed. "I'm sure Buneary's going through some intense feelings. Buneary, if I may, could I ask you a question?"

The rabbit didn't respond, but one of her ears perked up.

"I'd like to give you a once over, if you don't mind. I'm sure you'd like to be in proper form for your appointment, at least, wouldn't you? You might even feel a little better for it."

"Suzie's really good," Ash vouched. "It's at least worth a try!"

After a moment of thought, Buneary scaled up to Dawn's shoulder, and raised her paw. "Buneary."

"Wonderful!" Suzie clapped her hands together. "Then, you sit up on the nearest table, while I get my supplies."

"Um, actually. Suzie?" Ash asked before Suzie retreated. "I hate to throw this on ya, but I actually have a Pokémon that I've been concerned about, and I'd like to get checked out," he replied, holding up a Poké Ball in his palm.

"Oh! Well, in that case… Brock," she addressed her assistant. "Would you mind looking at Ash's Pokémon while I tend to Buneary?"

"Oh, of course!" Brock agreed. "Ninetales, would you mind accompanying me while I get a look at them?"

"Nine~." Ninetales yawned, meandering before ultimately trotting alongside Brock. It seemed her haughty attitude from her youth remained.

Ash, meanwhile, followed Brock to the next table over.

Suzie returned to Dawn and Buneary with haste, carrying a small basket of supplies that she placed on the table next to the rabbit. "Sorry for the wait, Buneary. If you don't mind, I'm just going to give you a quick thrice over before I bring out the best in you, okay?"

"Bun," Buneary grunted. She displayed a cold indifference to the Breeder's examination, allowing her to lift and examine her paws, and unroll her curled up ear at her whim.

"Thank you. You're doing a great job. Ah… Your fur seems well-groomed. No signs of dirt, or outdoor contamination…"

"We do our best to keep her in top shape," Dawn explained.

"That is the job of a Coordinator," Suzie agreed. "Now, Buneary, Dawn said that you have quite the bond with Peeks. How long has that been going on?"

"Near. Bun-Buneary," Buneary replied wistfully, linking her paws.

"She's felt that way since the day I caught her," Dawn explained. "It was around two years ago."

"My, that is quite a while! I wouldn't call it a fleeting flame, then. You're serious about him. Now, if you'd just let me borrow your ears…? Unroll the left one for me, please."

Buneary did as told, and Suzie gently massaged and inspected said ear, rolling and unrolling it to test its muscles. "Now, I know Pokémon Contests are full of trying battles. As a Pokémon who competes in leagues, he and you must have a lot in common. Is that part of what draws you to him?"

"Bun," Buneary nodded. "Buneee." Her ear that Suzie wasn't inspecting punched the air. "Near!"

"I think so!" Dawn answered for her. "They actually train together often. His Iron Tail is a great match for her Dizzy Punch, and he helped teach her to use Shock Wave." Dawn's eyes widened, then. "Wait, Suzie. You keep asking Buneary questions. Can you understand her!?"

"Oh, no." Suzie shook her head. "That's just a policy of mine. Even if I need information from a Pokémon's trainer that they can't fully convey, it shows a greater sense of respect to speak to the Pokémon directly." She released Buneary's ear, and pressed gently on the pads of her paws. "Even if you can't speak to us, you and every other Pokémon have feelings. I like to establish rapport between us, as long as I'm treating you. Does that make sense?"

Buneary's beady eyes widened. She nodded, still not feeling very vocal.

"Oh, that's a great idea!" Dawn said. "I never would've thought of that, but you're right."

"Now, could I ask you to lay back? Your fur and fluff seem neatly trimmed, thanks to Dawn, so I'd rather focus on giving you a relaxing massage," Suzie asked.

Buneary laid back on the table, paws folded over her chest.

"Now, now," Suzie soothed. "Arms lax at your sides. Let your body at ease. Back too…" Buneary gradually did as told. "Perfect!" She squeezed a warm liquid into her palms, and rubbed them together, before starting with Buneary's paws.

"Ooh, what is that?" Dawn asked. "It smells wonderful."

"It's massage oil for short-furred Pokémon," Suzie explained. "It helps bring out their luster and ease their muscles, without staining their coat. You can find it in most Breeder shops, if you'd like to get some yourself."

"I'd love to!" Dawn said. "Only the best for Buneary."

"Of course! Now, on that note… There's something I think both of you should know," Suzie added. "After my examination, I think it's safe to say that Buneary's on the precipice of evolving."

"Evolving!?" Dawn exclaimed.

Buneary sat up in surprise, before Suzie coaxed her to lay back, and moved on to giving her a foot massage. "Physiologically, yes, all the tell-tale signs are there. Have you noticed that Buneary seems a bit taller, lately?"

"Taller… Yeah! I have," Dawn said. "I thought I was just imagining things."

"You weren't. Her haunches are stronger and more pronounced, now, than an immature Buneary's; a sign of remarkable leg strength. Her ears also seem to be gaining dexterity and flexibility closer to that of a Lopunny."

"I knew she was stronger, lately, but I didn't know that." Dawn cupped a hand over her mouth. She frowned. "But, there's a problem… A while ago, I talked to my mentor, Paris, when we were in Hoenn. She asked me about why Buneary hadn't evolved yet. The only clue she had was that Buneary evolve from happiness. I actually tried to set Buneary up on a date with Peeks, a while ago, to see if it would help. But, it didn't change anything."

"Well, there's a little problem with that, Dawn," Suzie said. She moved on to rolling Buneary's shoulders. "Evolving from happiness is a common misconception. Pokémon like Buneary actually evolve from friendship."

"Friendship!?" Dawn echoed.

Buneary looked up, frowning.

"Primarily with one's trainer, yes," Suzie continued.

"Well, that's not right," Dawn huffed, bundling her fists. "Does that mean that I don't get along well with my Buneary!?"

"Bun! Buneary!" Buneary fumed, hopping onto her feet to protest. Even in her awful mood, she found the notion appalling.

"Now, hold on. Don't jump to conclusions," Suzie soothed. "Not fulfilling that requirement doesn't necessarily mean you don't care about each other. It may very well come from something that you and Buneary don't understand about each other, yet."

"Something we don't understand…?" Dawn echoed, humming in thought. "That reminds me of something that happened, back when we were in Fuschia City. I was trying to focus on our usual routine of focusing on Buneary's speed and cuteness. But, we were surrounded by a punk crowd who like to get more rowdy, and Buneary embraced it. She wanted to get fierce on stage, instead." Dawn ran a hand through her hair, reflecting on the misunderstanding.

"She even wanted to start wearing a leather jacket, and everything. Did I get that right, Buneary?"

"Bun-Bun." Buneary nodded. Suzie continued to massage her ears, accommodating for her moving around.

"It sounds like you're on the right track," Suzie smiled. "Buneary are known for their cute appeal, but no one Pokémon is the same. And just like no one is the same, no Pokémon is going to want to express the same thing all the time, either."

"I guess that makes sense," Dawn agreed. "I'm not always feeling big and bubbly, either."

Suzie nodded thoughtfully. "It's vital for a Pokémon's health for them to express their full range of emotions."

Those were wise words, Dawn figured. They continued to bounce around in her head, leaving the Coordinator with a thoughtful furrowed brow. Just how would she apply them to Buneary?

"Now, Ash. You said you had a Pokémon you were concerned about?" Brock asked, leading Ash to another open table in the lobby.

"Yeah. I caught her recently, when we were in Unova. I'll show you." Ash tapped the center button on his Poké Ball, opening it to unleash a flash that took shape atop the table.

Meema appeared atop the stand, sitting up with her paws tucked in front of her hind legs. Taking up as little space as possible, despite her long, shaggy mane, she looked about anxiously.

"Ah. A Zoroark!" Brock exclaimed. "Well, that's certainly new."

~...Leader.~ Meema spoke, eyeing Brock with some suspicion. She scooted further away from him, towards the end of the table. ~Where are we?~

"Brock, this is my Zoroark, Meema," Ash introduced. "And Meema, this is Brock. He's a really old friend of mine. We're just at a Breeder's salon. It's a little like the Pokémon Center from before!"

~...I see.~ Meema's eyes narrowed. ~If Leader trusts me in your care, 'Brock,' then I'll oblige.~ As was routine from Meema, she bowed her head.

"And, you have telepathy!" Brock said, brows raising. "Now, now. There's no need to be so formal. I may be a Pokémon Doctor in training, but for now, just consider me a friend."

~I'll do as Leader asks,~ Meema replied.

Ash gave a sheepish, uncomfortable smile. "Yeah, good luck with that."

Brock smirked. "That's alright. You're not the first stubborn Pokémon I've known. Ash said that we're friends, but what he didn't tell you is that I have a long history of tending to his Pokémon. But, before that, I need to know exactly what the problem is."

Meema's eyes widened. ~There is a problem?~

"It's not anything immediate. At least, I don't think," Ash replied, frowning. "But, I'm worried. I was warned that she's underweight, and her blood sugar is low…It's also been hard to get her to eat. Nothin's happened yet, but…" Ash exhaled, clenching the table end. in his fingertips. "...I want to make sure that I'm a good trainer to her."

~I assure you, it's not a problem.~ Meema curtly replied.

"It is a problem," Ash argued. "I'm worried about you, and…"

"Now, now. Calm down, both of you," Brock interjected. "You said that you caught Meema recently, Ash?"

"A week or two ago, more or less," Ash replied. "We rescued her and her cub from a poacher."

"Recovered from them, or wild?"

"Wild," Ash answered. "They lived in the forest, outside a city."

"Right," he nodded. "Meema, do you mind if I take a quick look at you?"

The Zoroark shrank into herself. ~I don't see the point, respectfully. I continue to serve my functions in the pack.~

"And I'm sure you do a great job," Brock said. He stood and moved so that he was facing Meema, at eye level with her. "But, if you're going to continue doing your best, it can't hurt to be sure, right?"

~Very well.~ Meema finally acquiesced. She sat still, while Brock examined her paws and nails.

"Thank you. Now, as for her nutrition… It may very well be a case of food insecurity."

"Food insecurity?" Ash asked.

"If she was in the wild, there's a chance she was short of the essentials. Especially if she was also raising a child," Brock explained. He examined her nails, before running a hand through her mane, and examining her eyes. "You might just have a case of malnutrition on your hands. That, and some proper grooming…"

"Are we not grooming her right?" Ash asked, frowning. "Dawn's been taking care of you, right, Meema?"

~Dawn has been doing a fine job,~ Meema replied. She neglected to answer everything else.

"I can certainly trust Dawn to manage a good coat," Brock muttered thoughtfully. "Maybe she just hasn't been at it long enough…"

While her former trainer puzzled through the problem at hand, Ninetales felt keen to do her own investigating. Ruby eyes squinted in suspicion, before she waltzed closer to Meema, sniffing at her hide.

The Zoroark quickly recoiled, baring her fangs at Ninetales.

"Woah, Meema!?" Ash exclaimed.

"Take it easy, now…!" Brock warned, easy as he took several cautious steps back.

But, Ninetales didn't waver. She stood without fear and stared Meema down, her many tails flicking thoughtfully behind her. "...Nine!" She howled. "Ninetales, Nine!"

"Ninetales…!?" Suzie exclaimed, standing up from Buneary's station. "Excuse me, you two." She walked over, approaching her very own Pokémon. "Is something the matter?"

The fox nodded towards her peer, flicking her tails, again.

"I see… I believe Ninetales has detected something about your Zoroark, Ash," Suzie said.

"Meema," Ash corrected.

"Meema," she acknowledged. "I'm sorry for the disturbance. But, if Ninetales has brought you to my attention, it was surely out of concern for you. I'd like to take over for Brock, if that's okay…?"

Meema squinted. She hid her canines, once more. ~Very well.~

"That's alright with me," Brock frowned, stepping aside. "I wonder what she's clued into?"

"That's what I'm about to find out." Suzie settled in the seat Brock had occupied before, and inspected the Zoroark's fur. Her hands traced through the mane, before they recoiled. "Oh."

"Oh?" Ash echoed, concerned.

"I can't say that I've worked with many Zoroark before, but I'm confident that their mane is supposed to feel plush, and wispy. Meema's feels more like a Raticate's bristles."

Meema averted her eyes, embarrassed.

"Now, if you'll allow me…" Suzie gently massaged and tended to Meema's physique. "Your musculature is pronounced, but your body fat is a tad low. I can feel your ribs, I'm afraid."

"We've been trying to get Meema up to speed on nutrition," Ash volunteered. "I even picked up the high-protein stuff. But, she's been reluctant to eat it." He turned to his own Pokémon, frowning. "I asked you if the food was good, and you said it's fine, right?"

~It's sufficient,~ Meema replied. ~And, I'm humbled by your reliable source of food.~

"Then, why-"

"Meema," Suzie interrupted. "If I asked how old you are, approximately, would you know?"

~Roughly four years old.~

"I see… And, do you have any young?"

~I have one,~ she answered.

"Her cub, Rura, is Dawn's Pokémon," Ash added.

~He's a year old, if that's important.~

"I believe it does shine a light on a couple of things," Suzie hummed. "And I know what Ninetales's concern was. I believe you're suffering from some postpartum deficiencies."

"Postpartum…?" Ash echoed.

Meema narrowed her eyes, but said nothing.

"...Of course! That's what this is!" Brock slammed a fist into his open hand.

"Pokémon rarely suffer in the way humans do, when producing their offspring," Suzie explained. "An egg is much easier to carry to term than a child. But, that doesn't mean it's unheard of. Especially if a Pokémon isn't maintaining proper nutrition during and after carrying the egg."

"That explains everything… Her poor keratin, and below-average size. I can't believe I hadn't thought of it." Brock shook his head. "My courses haven't covered the aspects of tending to wild Pokémon; in comparison, trained Pokémon get regular Pokémon Center checks."

"It's quite alright, Brock," Suzie replied. "Most breeders who aren't in an apprenticeship under a daycare owner wouldn't know it, either! I've been at this a lot longer than you."

"I can tell," the man grumbled quietly. He caught himself complaining and stood upright, before bowing his head stiffly. "...Sorry. I shouldn't be complaining. And I'm sorry to you too, Meema."

The Zoroark shook her head. ~If anyone should be apologizing, it would be me. I apologize for being so… insufficient.~

"That's ridiculous," Ash shook his head. "You have nothing to apologize for!"

"Ash is right, Meema." Suzie agreed, smiling. "The goal of any Pokémon Breeder is to evaluate and bring out the best in Pokémon. Not to make value judgments.

~You said that I was below average size,~ Meema replied.

"I'm afraid so," Suzie said. "Whether that's simply a variation in traits or other issues, though, I'd like to know a little more. You said that you've been raising your cub for a year. And unlike you, I haven't heard any concerns about Rura's health. Has he been eating well?"

~He has, I believe,~ Meema replied, before looking to Ash. ~Has he not?~

"Nimbasa's Nurse Joy said he was just fine," Ash replied.

"Right, then. It makes sense for a mother to prioritize her child's health. Could you tell me about your troubles gathering enough food for both of you, Meema?"

The Zoroark was quiet, for a moment. With a gentle nudge from Ash, she spoke. ~It was difficult to hunt for two, in a forest that already contained a huge pack.~

"That's understandable, as well," Suzie said. "If there were plenty of other Zorua and Zoroark, then, why were you separate from them?"

The Zoroark shrunk into her own space, and turned away from Suzie. Unlike her previous answers, which came after a moment's hesitation, dead silence took over this corner of the shop.

"It doesn't seem like she's comfortable answering," Brock volunteered.

"I think so," Suzie agreed. "That's alright, then, Meema. We'll proceed with what we know…"

"Oh, he looks positively stunning~!" A stout, middle-aged woman could be heard from down the hall, before stepping out into the open. Along with her, an Alakazam whose mustache appeared shiny and silky-smooth followed. Loosely holding his twin spoons, the PSI pokemon looked content.

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

"Oh, Zane! Yes, I'm glad you're here." Suzie chimed, turning back to the customer momentarily. "Pardon us, Ma'am, but it's a bit of a busy day. We hope you and your Pokémon are satisfied, and that you visit us again soon! Remember to let your outer and inner beauty shine~!"

With that, Zane turned his attention to the front of the salon. "Well, it certainly looks like we have an assortment of… Ash." The man's eyes widened, before softening into a look of concern. "It's… a relief to see you."

"Yeah. Same here." Ash said, awkwardly rubbing his neck. Before he had to cycle through the same conversation again, though, Suzie leaned in to whisper something in her husband's ear. He nodded along before separating. "Sorry. I guess I should ask what you're doing here. Are there any Pokémon you'd like us to look at?"

"Actually, if you wouldn't mind…" Ash perked up, gesturing across the room. "My Lucario, Rosa, has been real patient! How 'bout it, girl. I bet you could use some R&R."

Rosa grunted, thinking it over before nodding. ~Yeah. Alright.~ She walked over to stand by Zane.

"Telepathy…? Well, what do you know! A sharp mind deserves an equally sharp appearance. Don't you think, Rosa?"

~That sounds like something Ma would say,~ the Lucario agreed.

~Pardon me.~ Meema spoke up, turning toward Zane. ~But, if you're accepting anyone else… I implore you to care for my Rura. If that would be permissible.~

"Oh, that's a great idea!" Dawn chimed in, briskly walking over with Rura's Poké Ball in hand.

"Ha, that's fine with me!" Zane grinned. "It looks like you have your hands full, anyway, Suzie."

"Just a bit," Suzie nodded. "I believe Buneary's been cared for, but I'd like to give Meema a thorough makeover. Buneary, if that's okay with you, you can wait in the lounge."

"Bun." Buneary nodded, and sprung off towards one of the couches near the windows.

"So, that's two for me… I think I can work in just one more, if there are any volunteers!" Zane offered.

"In that case, Empoleon would be great! I know he'd love this," Dawn said. "...If that's alright with you, Ash."

Ash shrugged. "I don't think the others would like it as much as he would. Go ahead."

"If you have any other Pokémon you'd like to bring by, you can swing by, anytime!" Suzie volunteered. "But for now, it sounds like we're set."

"Right! Follow me, Dawn, Rosa." Zane gestured, leading them down the hallway towards the back.

"Right. See you guys, soon! Good luck, Meema!" Dawn waved, before turning the corner.

"If you don't mind, Suzie," Brock spoke up, "I'd like to help. It's the least I can do, after you've made the diagnosis."

"I'd love that, Brock!" Suzie smiled cheerily. "Now, let's get to work on that mane, first…"

Ash smiled at the scene, awkwardly scratching his cheek. "It looks like everything's been worked out, here… Maybe I should give you guys some space."

"It might be a good idea," Suzie agreed. "We wouldn't want to crowd Meema, would we?"

Ash nodded. His eyes drifted off towards the lobby, where he saw Dawn's Buneary, sitting on her own, with her paws folded in her lap. "Yeah. I'll just be over there! Have fun, Meema."

~If you say so, Leader.~

Ash made his way over to the couch Buneary occupied, and sat down directly beside her. Involuntarily, he let out a sigh. Everything about him, right now, felt heavy.

"Bun." The rabbit acknowledged him.

"Figured you could use some company." Ash said, smiling weakly. Buneary only shrugged, leaving Ash to lead the conversation. "...Hey, so. I guess we've both got a lot on our mind, huh?"

"Buneary."

"A lot of things, yeah. Rosa's been acting weird. Meema, over there, with whatever happened to her… Then, you know."

Then, there was the obvious. The rodent that both cared for so deeply. The one that made Ash's shoulder feel empty. He could only imagine how she felt. "It's weird, without him here."

"Neary."

"...But, I don't think that's what's really bugging you, is it?"

Buneary looked up at Ash with wide eyes.

"Hell, we both miss him. No doubt. But, I'm sure you're really angry that you haven't been able to do more for him. Y'just feel helpless. No matter how hard you can throw a punch, or run into danger for him… It's not enough to make him feel better."

Buneary let out an uncharacteristic snort. "How'd you guess?"

"'Cause I'm feeling the exact same thing. Obviously," Ash huffed. Then, he sat straight up, staring at her. "...Did I just hear you talk?"

Buneary met his gaze, one ear standing all the way up in shock. "I'unno. Didja?"

"...Yeah, I definitely did." Ash belly-laughed. "Hah, wow. Look at you. The first Pokémon that ain't mine that I've heard."

"Peek— he said it was all about understanding or something, didn't he?" Buneary asked, tilting her head. Saying his name was still difficult; Ash could feel her sentiment in his bones. "You're the first one to get where I'm comin' from…" The rabbit suddenly slumped over, ears and all. "Crud. I feel kinda bad. This, when Dawn and I are having trouble seeing eye-to-eye."

"Hey, hey. Don't take it like that," Ash said. "You and Dawn are way closer than you and me!" He balked, catching his faux pas. "Not that we're not close or anything—"

"No, no! I get it. Now that you got your eyes glued to Dawn, the rest of us are chopped liver."

Ash couldn't help but laugh. "Very funny… Listen. There's nothing wrong with your bond. You two just have some kind of obstacle keeping you from getting each other. Now you have to find exactly what that is, and beat it! Then, you'll be on the same page, again." Ash smiled, leaning back in his seat. "Sometimes, friends lose the plot with each other. Working through it is what a real friendship is all about."

Buneary listened to Ash's speech without interruption. She laughed to herself, afterward. "Y'know you'd make a hell of a motivational speaker?"

"You think so?" Ash puffed out his chest, brushing his index finger over his nose. "If I can be real with you, I used to practice that, before I left on my journey." Honesty for honesty. "...I know he means a lot to you."

"What gave it away? The non-stop eyeballing? The lash-fluttering?" Buneary idly drew patterns on the couch cushion in the shape of her beloved. "I heard ya vouch for me, back on Seafoam."

Ash snorted. "For what it's worth, you have my thumbs-up. I've only seen one other Pokémon gawk over him, before you. But, it was just a Magnemite who was after his electricity. Poor lil' guy had an electric cold." He shook his head, and winked at Buneary. "I know you'd treat him right, if he came around."

"Thanks, Ash. I really would, y'know." Buneary sighed. "I remember feelin' so frustrated that day. Frustrated as hell, knowing he was just getting cold feet. What a schmuck I was, looking back. Now… Now, I just want him to be okay."

Ash reached to pat her back. "He will be… He has to be. And, when he's back with us, we'll give him a warm welcome!"

Buneary forced a smile. She felt she should, at least for Ash's sake. "You betcha!"

~C'monnnn. Are you done, yet?~ Rura whined. He sat up on his bottom, looking rather silly for a fluffy little quadruped, with his tail whipping impatiently behind him. Meanwhile, Zane gently pinched his paw pads to clip and file his nails.

"Almost! Won't be long, now." Zane clipped another nail, holding the Zorua's hind leg steady. "You've been a bit of a handful, little guy. Empoleon over here was much more well-behaved."

Empoleon looked over from inspecting himself in a vanity mirror, striking a pose. "Empol!"

Rura rolled his eyes. ~Well, duh! I'm not a boring adult.~

"Empoleon's usually thrilled to get groomed and polished," Dawn sighed. "Rura's been much tougher. The little guy doesn't mind getting dirty at all. Or, staying dirty, for that matter."

"Some Pokémon are just wild at heart," Zane explained. "But he's healthy. Let me guess, Dawn. You're worried as a Coordinator, right?"

"Well, yeah!" Dawn nodded. "I'm glad he's having fun playing, but I'd hate for him to look scruffy or muddy on stage."

~And what's wrong with mud?~ Rura yipped.

"It's my job to bring out your charm on stage!" Dawn defended.

"Now, hold on, Dawn." Zane interrupted, smiling as he brushed the fluffy tuft atop Rura's head. "Only one of us is a Coordinator in the room, but consider this. There are all sorts of ways a Pokémon can show off their charm, right?"

"There are, that's true," Dawn agreed. Then, she made a horrified face. "Are you saying I should make Rura's appeal being dirty!?"

"I wouldn't recommend letting him get caked with mud and grime on the regular," Zane laughed. "But, this conversation does have me thinking… how long have you been with Dawn, Rura?"

~Uh…~ Rura squinted in thought. ~Some number of days!~

"It's been two or three weeks," Dawn answered.

"Right! So, you're still wild at heart. A little scrappy fox who's not all prim and proper… There's something charming about that, isn't there?"

"I… guess there is," Dawn muttered. 'Come to think of it, a lot of my Pokémon have started to show their own unique charm. Empoleon's bravery. Absol's frightening tricks… Buneary's intensity.' The girl scrunched her nose, lingering on that last note. She shook her head.

"Yeah! I think you're right. I don't know how much I like cutting back on the picture-perfect grooming… But, If Rura wants to be a bit of a rascal, then I'll just have to make that part of his appeal!"

~Yeah! I AM a rascal.~ Rura yipped, hopping up onto all fours with a grin.

"There you go!" Zane chimed. "But, I think there's a little more we can do with that youthful image of yours, Rura. Give me just one second…" He trailed off, walking over to look through some props and accessories hung up on the wall. "...Ah! There we go."

Zane returned to the fox, wrapping and tying an accessory around his black, fluffy collar. "Here we go! Have a look."

Rura was left with a sky blue bandana tied into the black fluff of his collar. Its spiky tufts still poked out of the accessory, while still making the bandana the centerpiece under his muzzle.

"Oh! That's wonderful!" Dawn gushed, linking her fingers together. "You look so cute!"

~...I do?~ Rura tilted his head. Zane held up a mirror for him, and he got a proper look at himself. ~I do! I look AWESOME.~ He grinned, spinning and striking several poses.

"There we go! Even if he does look a little scruffy, it'll feel intentional," Zane suggested.

"Thank you so much, Zane!" Dawn gushed. "Now that my Pokémon are done, though, I think it's Rosemary's turn. You ready to be doted on, girl?"

The Lucario was seated in a nearby chair, staring off at nothing in particular. She didn't respond.

"...Girl? Earth to Rosa?" Dawn frowned, waving a hand in front of the Lucario's face.

The Lucario's eyes snapped open. She shook her head, registering Dawn in front of her. ~Sorry. What?~

"You were spacing out… Is something on your mind? You've hardly said a word since you came in here," Dawn asked.

~Yeah. Something is.~ Rosemary said, without elaborating further.

Zane raised a brow, before hiding his concern with a customer service smile. "Well, Rosa, I have a nice seat for bipedal Pokémon right over here," he gestured to a spinning chair, not unlike one in a barber's shop; pardoning a gap in the bottom of the back of the seat meant to accommodate a Pokémon's tail. "So, why don't you have a seat and tell us about what's bothering you?"

Rosa took a seat in the chair, shimmying back to make room for her tail. ~I'm feeling bad vibes.~

"Bad vibes?" Dawn echoed, frowning. "You don't mean-"

~I don't mean danger,~ Rosa explained. ~I mean Meema. Papa. Buneary. You.~ Rosa looked pointedly at Dawn.

"Me…!?" Dawn gestured to herself.

Zane took one of Rosa's paws in his hand, inspecting her nails and wrist spike. "Hey, I saw the news. You took on a whole criminal gang by yourself. Sorry," he excused, "with your Pokémon."

~I was there,~ Rosa added, frowning. ~I did everything I could.~

"And you did an amazing job. You saved plenty of lives. Plenty of Pokémon were freed. I've read about some of them going into rehabilitation and rehoming." Zane picked up a clipper, and started working on Rosa's nails. "But, that doesn't mean you're not going to hurt from it. All of you have to be having a hard time."

Rosa watched Zane work, as he clipped her nails on the other paw, too. ~That's why we have to be strong. To look out for each other.~

"And it's good to be strong. But, it's important to allow yourself peace of mind, too." Zane pulled out some buffing sandpaper, and started to sand Rosa's wrist spike, only for her to recoil.

~Ack! Hate that,~ she complained.

"Huh? But, a Lucario's spikes don't have nerve endings," Zane said, puzzled.

~They don't hurt,~ Rosa explained. ~But being rubbed with something that rough feels gross. Plus, the sound hurts my ears.~

"She's really particular about her senses," Dawn explained. "I know what she means. I can't stand the feeling of silk on my skin." The girl made a face.

"Oh, I see! Everyone has their squicks." Zane nodded. "Then, we'll skip the sanding and move on to polishing… But, Rosa. Have you felt any irritation around your spikes lately?"

~Huh? A little, yeah.~ Rosa answered. ~It's been itching lately. Why?~

"I can see tell-tale signs of irritation where your skin meets the steel deposits," Zane explained. "Does one of your moves enlarge them?"

"Oh! Her ability does," Dawn answered. "Justified makes her spikes get several times bigger!"

"Well, that'd be it!" Zane gently pressed a thumb on the sensitive skin, making Rosa wince. "That's known as Transformative Irritation. Pokémon moves and abilities can alter their physiology, and it's not always in the most natural of ways, so it can aggravate their bodies, or set off allergic reactions. Rosemary's doesn't seem quite so bad, but there are lotions for it that'll make her more comfortable. Ash may also want to take you for a tetanus shot, sometime."

~Tetanus shot?~ Rosa squinted.

"Can a Steel-type even get that!?" Dawn gawked.

"It's not her steel that I'm worried about," Zane explained. Meanwhile, he ran a small cloth coated with steel polish around Rose's wrist spike. "It's any dirt or anything else that could get in there during battle. Again, she seems fine. But a little precaution can't hurt. I'll prescribe some to Ash on your way out."

~I wouldn't mind the lotion,~ Rosa explained. ~It's been annoying me.~

"There you go! A little extra comfort will help you feel better," Zane smiled. "Like I was trying to say, earlier. I know times are tough. But it's important to allow yourself some comfort and relaxation, in the moment. For the sake of your mental and physical health… Aha! Done with that."

Zane backed off, and went for a hot air dryer. "Cherish what you have in the present, you know?"

Rosa was instructed to stand, while Zane air dried her fur from head to toe. The loud, irritating sound forced her to tune out her surroundings, and stay inside of her own head. She considered Zane's words. 'Cherish what you have in the present.'

Once the high pitch of the air dryer stopped, Dawn had swallowed that advice, and took the chance to speak. "Oh! Speaking of Rosa's spikes, I had a question. You see how Rosa's ears kind of fan out, the way they do? Every other Lucario I've seen has them standing straight-up. And her wrist spikes. They're hooked toward her, instead of straight-up. What's with that?"

"That's a great question, Dawn!" Zane said, while running a brush through Rosa's now fluffed up tail. "Every Pokémon has what's seen as their standard appearance. Just the documented average. But, there are plenty of cosmetic differences between individual Pokémon. A lot more than people realize! The ears could come from something in her pedigree."

"Come to think of it, I don't think we know her pedigree," Dawn said. "She came from an egg that traded hands many times, because it wouldn't hatch."

"...Huh. Well, it's hard to say, then! For all we know, it could all just be uniquely Rosemary. She's her own, unique Pokémon with her own, unique look."

~My own unique look…~ Rosa looked down at her spikes. Her appearance wasn't something she'd ever put much thought into, nor was where her egg came from. Her eyes drifted to Dawn, and then to the rack of accessories on the wall. ~Hey, Zane! Can I get one of those, too?~

"Ah…? Sure! Help yourself," the man agreed.

Dawn watched the Pokémon approach the selection, wondering what her eye had landed on. Rosa didn't waste any time picking one item out. She held up a red scarf with a three-pointed end. ~I want to wear this one.~

"Nice choice!" Zane praised. "It contrasts with your shades very well. And it matches your eyes!"

~Yeah. That, too. Ma, could you help me out?~ Rosa asked, fumbling with the fabric.

Dawn was over in a blink, expertly tying the scarf around her neck. "You've got it!"

~It's not really about matching, though. You said something about cherishing things,~ Rosa explained. ~This scarf reminds me of somethin'. The kind that Ma used to wear.~

"Huh? Yeah, now that you mention it, I wore one a lot like that," Dawn said, blinking. "But, you've never seen me wear that."

~I saw ya in Pa's memories,~ Rosa replied, shrugging. ~So, if we're cherishing things… I never really knew who my egg came from. Dawn's my Ma, so I wanna look like her.~ She looked off. Clearly, she was approaching the age to be embarrassed about such things.

Dawn, however, had cupped her hands over her mouth, tears rolling down her cheeks. That escalated into fully blown wailing, as she threw her arms around Rosa. "That has to… hic. be…" Sniffle. "...the sweetest thing you've ever saiiiid!"

Empoleon consequently started to bawl, moved by the scene.

~Hey… C'mon, Ma!~ Rosa looked off, while awkwardly hugging Dawn back.

~Yeah, this is gross,~ Rura scoffed. ~Are we done here?~

Zane fought his own bubbling tears, wiping them from his eye with a smile. "I think that just about wraps up our work. But, oh! Before you go. I'd like to show you and Empoleon something."

"Huh?" Dawn pulled back, sniffling as Rosa squirmed free. "Sure. What is it?"

"Here." He guided Dawn's hand to behind Empoleon's crown, right behind his ear. "Press down."

Dawn complied, pressing her thumb down.

Empoleon's beak went slack and a dribble of dark almost green water fell from his beak.

"...What the heck is that!?" Dawn yelped. She and Empoleon both looked horrified, as she reached for a towel and wiped his beak clean.

"Thank you for using my polishing cloth for that," Zane grumbled, before collecting himself. "It's residual water. When Pokémon battle, they don't always use all the water they produce for an attack. It's not healthy for them to keep it in. If you press there, it'll empty out, like pointing a hose down after you're done with it."

"That's… great to know," Dawn trailed off, forcing a smile despite her pale face. Empoleon, meanwhile, was mortified.

"...And, I believe we're done here!" Suzie announced.

"And it looks like we did a great job!" Brock agreed. "Hey, Ash. Come have a look!"

Ash had been flipping through a Breeder's magazine in the lobby up until then, reading Buneary anything she found of interest. When Suzie called, he put the magazine down, and sprinted over. "Lemme see! …Oh, wow!"

Meema sat up on the table, amongst plenty of fur and mane trimmings. She blinked repeatedly, looking just a tad self-conscious. Her mane was sleeker and more gracefully shaped, while her coat had gone from a dry, even gray to a warm, charcoal shade. She was still skinny, naturally, but her black collar was a bit more lustrous and neat, as were the offshoots of fur framing her forelegs.

By all accounts, she looked like a new Pokémon.

"Meema, you look awesome!" Ash orbited the stand, discovering that her teal beads binding her mane were now well-polished and shimmering. "I bet you at least feel a little better, right?"

~I do.~ Meema nodded. ~My mane feels lighter, and I feel… more comfortable. Thank you, Suzie. You as well, Brock.~

"Oh, it was our pleasure!" Brock vouched, hand over his heart.

"You're most welcome!" Suzie added. "I couldn't quite nurture her mane the way I'd like, but this is a great first step! And, the good news is that everything, pardoning her size, is completely reversible."

"And, the bad news?" Ash frowned.

"The bad news is that the vitamins and nutrients she needs can be rather expensive."

Ash hissed through his teeth, but buried his worries with a smirk. "No worries. I'll just have to win, win, and win some more at the League. Then, I can pony up for anything she needs!"

~Leader.~ Meema squinted. ~At the risk of stepping out of line, I beseech you don't trouble yourself on my behalf. You've already done plenty.~

Before another argument could start — and it certainly would — the sound of scampering paws tap-tapping down the hall brought in a lively guest. ~LOOK AT MY BANDANA. MEEMA. LOOK AT MY BANDANA!~ Rura hopped atop Meema's table, his tail wagging wildly behind him.

~...Oh.~ Meema smiled. ~It suits you, Rura. Quite well.~

Rura, however, stared at his mother, wide-eyed. His tail slowed down, until the little flicks petered out. He looked like she'd just grown two heads. ~You look AMAZING!~

Meema blinked. ~Do I?~

Rura started hopping, his tail wagging again. ~Much better! It looks like my plan paid off.~ The Zorua grinned around a telepathic, mischievous chuckle.

Meema squinted, again. ~...Plan?~

Dawn finally caught up, along with the other Pokémon. "Huh? What plan?"

Rura suddenly looked like a Stantler in headlights. ~...Oh, crud.~

"What d'you mean, Rura?" Ash asked, head tilted. "What's the big idea?"

~Explain yourself.~ Meema ordered, more to the point.

The little fox hung his head. He'd been caught. ~Alriiiight, already. I talked you into joining Ash and Dawn for YOU.~

Meema sat up, taken aback.

~You were always feeling so crummy! You didn't take care of your mane, and your tummy was always rumbling. I could HEAR it — but, you'd just say 'noooo, don't mind me.' I'm not stupid! With Ash's skills, Dawn's kicking, and the Nurse Joy, and… You'd be okay! You'd have FOOD.~ Rura huffed, glaring at his mother. ~I said it was for me, 'cause I know that'd make you listen. So you'd get healthy, already.~

The salon became awfully quiet. The group had quieted for Rura to tell his tale, save Ash and Dawn both biting back sniffles and tears. Behind all the commotion, they'd linked their hands tightly together.

Brock, unaware, only smiled at the scene.

Meema, for her part, stared at her offspring in complete bewilderment. ~...When did you grow so much that you could trick me.~

~I've BEEN growing.~ Rura huffed. ~You just haven't noticed.~

Meema lowered her head. ~...Very well, then. You picked our pack for yourself. We're bound to them, in the long run, now.~

"Exactly!" Ash released Dawn to step forward, patting Meema's shoulder. "We're family. And family looks out for one another! No matter what."

"Very well said, Ash." Suzie smiled fondly. "You have a wonderful child, Meema. I'm going to give Ash a list of what he needs to take proper care of you. I hope you'll oblige us, now."

~I will,~ Meema conceded. ~Gratefully so.~

"Oh, and Ash," Zane interjected, handing Ash a slip of his own.

"Huh? What's this?" Ash read off the prescription. "Transformative Irritation Lotion… Tetanus shot!?"

"They're for your Lucario," he jerked a thumb towards Rosa.

"Oh, in that case, thank you. I'll… Rosa! What's with the scarf?" Ash asked.

Rosa smiled, fiddling with the scarf's tail. ~I liked it. Do you, Pa?~

Ash's expression softened into a smile. "You look just like your Mama."

"You bet she does!" Dawn agreed. Her eyes drifted off to nowhere in particular, before landing on an analogue clock. "...Oh! It's quarter to three! I've got to get moving!"

"Time really did fly by," Ash smiled. "Alright. Let's hit the road, and get Buneary to her appointment! If that's cool with you guys."

"Of course!" Suzie agreed. "It was great seeing you all."

"Don't let us hold you up!" Zane agreed.

"Actually," Brock interjected, "I'd like to join you guys. At least for the afternoon to see what the fuss is about." The young man smirked. "That is, if you don't mind having ol' Brock around."

"Give me a break," Ash rolled his eyes, and gave his friend a fraternal pat on the back. "Of course we don't."

"Yeah, come on!" Dawn agreed. At about that time, Buneary joined her, and hopped up to sit on her shoulder. "We'll just call your company a bit of good luck for our shoot. Right, Buneary?"

Buneary looked between Dawn, Brock, and Ash, seeming thoughtful. Of course, if she was going to find her way alongside Dawn… Their other friends were never a bad thing. "Bun!"