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"Was blowing the door open at all necessary?"

"I don't know about necessary, but it was more fun than just opening it."

Once they had made it to Lawrence's estate, Valor and Galen had spent a few hours watching the movements of the guards and figuring out how to go in. After they had it all planned out they had snuck in, taken out the exterior guards, and then dealt with a small militia force of more organized men who were now all unconscious on the ground. Having made it through the first line of defence, they had faced the issue of two imposing and tightly locked front doors. Valor had suggested trying to pick the lock or using another form of surreptitious entry.

Galen had a different plan in mind, namely using a blast of pure, fiery red Aura-that looked strikingly similar to the black lightning Faerin had used in Lilycove-to totally obliterate the doors.

Valor gave an exasperated sigh, fighting back irritation. "We could have just slipped in quietly."

Galen scoffed. "No we couldn't have. Didn't you notice the security cameras? They already know were here."

"Okay, fine. What about being careful? I mean, what if Tamash? had been behind those doors? You could have really injured somebody!"

"I already knew no one was behind the door. Or have you forgotten that we can kind of tell where other people are?"

"No I haven't forgotten, but it was still-"

"Freeze!"

They both turned in response to the new voice, and were greeted by the sight of five men in the entryway of the mansion, all of them carrying rifles, and all of them pointed at the two of them.

Galen sighed. "We'll have to finish this later." Directing his attention at the man who had spoken, Galen said, "Look, I don't want to have to fight you guys. I think it should be clear by all the people out here that are lying unconscious on the ground that we can take you. So, just put the guns down, and walk away. This doesn't have to be violent. I gave the same option to the guards outside, and they didn't take it. Don't make the same mistake."

It was quiet for a moment, then the man spoke again, a suspicious look in his eyes. "Why would you just let us go like that?"

"Because, I don't want to cause unnecessary harm-"

Valor scoffed. "Says the guy who blew up the door."

Galen threw him a dirty look, then continued. "And because you can be better than this. You don't have to spend your life taking orders from a sadistic creep like Lawrence."

It became clear after a minute that despite what he was offering them, they weren't going to lower their weapons. Galen let out a disappointed sigh. "All right then, let's get this over with."

The weapons all discharged a second later, but anticipating that, Galen and Valor had both created Aura shields in front of them to halt the projectiles. The guards started backing away in fear at the sight of them blocking the theoretically deadly attack so easily. "So, you've seen us defend. Does anyone really want to see us on the offensive?"

With little hesitation they laid down their weapons and ran out past the two of them. With a satisfied smirk Galen said, "Well, that went better than expected."

"Whatever. Let's just get Tamash? and get out of here." Without waiting for a response Valor set off into the mansion, headed straight for where he could see the familiar green glow of Tamash?'s Aura, Galen trailing a few meters behind.

***

"What the hell is going on?"

Ever since the sound of the explosion Lawrence had been using his intercom system to try to get information from his guards. Thus far he had been relatively unsuccessful, and his irritation was only serving to add to Tamash?'s amusement.

From her place sitting on the small white sofa that occupied an off center position in the middle of the room, Tamash? watched with ever increasing interest. "What's wrong Lawrence? I thought your guards were supposed to be able to deal with this kind of stuff."

"Be silent!" Returning his attention to the intercom, Lawrence repeated his question to the guard at the other end.

A response came a few seconds later. "We...uh...were not entirely sure, sir. From what we can tell from the camera feeds, two men have made their way onto the property, and have effectively dealt with every guard that has gotten in their way."

"How?"

"I don't know sir. They seem to be using some kind of...energy pulses...or something."

Upon hearing that Tamash? burst out laughing. Barely maintaining his composure Lawrence turned to her and asked, "What is so funny?"

"What's so funny Master, is that I was right, and you were wrong." With a triumphant smile she said, "My mate has come for me, and by the sound of it he has help. You're finished."

"Help? Who would he go to for help? And how are they fighting off my guards? They have guns for Arceus's sake!"

Tamash? shrugged. "If I had to guess, his help is probably our friend Galen. He's about the only person Valor would trust to help. However, I have absolutely no idea as to how they are dealing with your guards."

Lawrence was now shaking with rage. "This. Is. Unacceptable."

"And yet it's happening. I repeat, you're finished. Valor will come get me, beat the crap out of you, and that will be the end of it. Your world is about to come crashing down around you."

"You insolent little-"

"Bitch?" Tamash? suggested with a smirk.

Without warning Lawrence smacked her across the face, breathing heavily with frustration. She slowly turned her head back to look at him, her eyes narrowed dangerously. "Go ahead. Keep doing things like that. Just one more reason for my mate to beat you within an inch of your life."

Lawrence gave a deranged sort of chuckle. "I've seen you 'mate'. He's not the type to go around fighting people."

"Normally you'd be right, but when it comes to protecting me, he's always willing to fight."

"Then he will die fighting."

***

As Valor and Galen came around a corner the large wood doors of Lawrence's study came into view. However, there were also two guards, each wearing a bullet proof vest and armed with a hand gun. They opened fire on sight, forcing Galen and Valor to duck back around the corner for cover.

"What now?"

Galen was quiet for a moment. "Alright, we're gonna have to coordinate this carefully. I want you to create a shield across the opening here."

Valor nodded. "Then what?"

"I haven't gotten that far yet."

"What?!"

"Just do it!"

Worried about what the result of Galen's 'plan' would be, Valor reluctantly created a field of shimmering green energy across the gap, effectively blocking the incoming bullets. Galen then stepped out from around the corner, and closed his eyes, looking as though he were concentrating on something. After a moment his whole body started glowing bright red. His eyes suddenly snapped open, and in a seemingly effortless motion he fired two blasts of Aura straight through Valor's shield, hitting the guards and knocking them out cold, causing them to slump against and slide down the walls on either side of the doors.

Valor let the shield dissipate, staring at Galen in disbelief as the fiery red glow faded from his friend's body. "How the hell did you do that?"

Galen waved a hand dismissively. "It was simple. I just had to concentrate and match the energy flow and pulse frequency of your shield. Once I did that, I just had to fire."

"Yeah, it sounds really simple. You know, one of these days you need to go through and explain how it is you went from being the average guy you were in Twinleaf Town to being, well, you."

"It's a long story kid, and we have more important things to do right now." Gesturing to the doors he said, "After you."

***

"Based on what I'm hearing from outside, my rescuers have arrived."

"You won't be 'escaping' any time soon, my pretty blue friend." Lawrence roughly grabbed Tamash? by the arm, pulling her off the couch and up to his eye level. "You are MINE, and I will not be handing you over to anyone."

As if to fly straight in the face of what he had just said, the doors to the room were blown open at that moment, the intricately carved wood being broken into hundreds of shards. Through the cloud of dust and debris came Valor and Galen, both looking ready for a fight. Without ant hesitation Lawrence pulled Tamash? in closer to him, pulled his gun out of his suit, and placed the barrel straight against her head. "Not another step gentlemen, or her brain will become a stain on my walls."

They stopped cold, Valor with a look of unrivalled rage on his face, and Galen looking strangely calm despite the situation. Clenching and unclenching his fists in an effort to restrain his aggression, Valor spoke. "Let her go Lawrence. Right NOW."

Lawrence let out a sadistic, deranged sort of chuckle at Valor's command. "You my young friend, are in no place to make demands. Now, why don't we try to handle this in a civilized manner?"

Trembling with a mixture of fear and anger, Tamash? dared to speak her mind to the man holding her. "There is isn't anything civilized about you, you sadistic son of a-"

Lawrence cut her off by knocking the gun against her head, causing Valor to take a step forward, only to be stopped by Galen stretching his arm out in front of him. "Don't Valor. I know you're angry, but you need to stay in control."

Valor reluctantly stepped back, knowing Galen was right. It was then that Lawrence tilted his head to one side, looking at Galen as though he were seeing him for the first time. "Have we met somewhere before?"

A slightly twisted smile spread across Galen's face then. "Oh, so you don't remember me? Let me see if I can refresh your memory. Cerulean City. Nine years ago. You shot me in the arm, then tried to kill me a few minutes later. Then, after you were knocked on you ass, I warned you that if I ever found out you were involved in some kind of illegal activity again, I would hunt you down and make sure you regretted it."

Lawrence's eyes went wide as recognition hit him, and he then proceeded to tighten his grip on Tamash?. "Yes. I remember you now."

Galen started moving forward, a dark look in his eyes. "Good. Then what comes next shouldn't be a surprise."

"Hold it right there! Any closer, and she loses her life!"

Galen ignored the warning and continued walking toward Lawrence, much to Valor's dismay. "Galen, listen to him! Tamash?'s life is on the line here!"

"I'm aware."

Tamash?'s eyes widened with fear. Surly he didn't intend to sacrifice her for the sake of revenge? "Galen, what are you doing?!"

Without taking his eyes off Lawrence, Galen responded as he continued forward, step by step. "Don't worry Tamash?. I know what I'm doing."

Lawrence smirked. "I don't believe you do. Either you stop now, or it's all over for Tamash?."

"I don't think so."

"Very well then, you have brought this outcome through your own foolishness."

"WAIT DON'T!"

Ignoring Valor, Lawrence pulled the trigger with a final cruelly victorious smile, which quickly changed to a look of confusion when nothing happened. With a smirk, Galen asked, "What's wrong Lawrence? Your little toy not working?"

Taking advantage of Lawrence's distraction and confusion, Valor fired off a blast of Aura, knocking the firearm from the man's hand. With his grip now loosened, Tamash? had enough space to blast his midriff, breaking completely free of his grip, but stumbling and landing on all fours in the process. As Lawrence reeled backwards, Galen rushed forward, grabbed him by the head with one hand, and slammed his head in to the carpeted floor, knocking him out cold.

With Lawrence no longer a threat, Valor rushed to Tamash?'s side, a look of concern colouring his features. "Tamash?, are you alright?"

Without warning she essentially tackled him, wrapping her arms tightly around his midsection, nuzzling his chest and neck as he struggled to stay on his feet. "I'm fine. I'm just glad you came for me."

With a small smile he wrapped his arms around her, holding her as close as he could. "Of course I did. I couldn't just leave you with him. Especially...not when...this was...all my fault."

Sensing the guilt in his voice, Tamash? looked up into his eyes. "Valor, don't worry about it. You came for me. That's all I care about."

He shook his head in response. "I can't not worry about it. If it weren't for my arrogance and idiocy, none of this would have happened. I'm sorry."

"I know you are, but you can let it go. I don't care. It's all over now." Before he could respond she stretched up, taking him in a gentle kiss.

When she pulled away a moment later, he let out a contented sigh. "Alright then, as long as you're safe, I guess I can let it go. I love you, Tamash?."

"I love you too. And Valor?"

"Yeah?"

"You need a haircut."

***

While Valor and Tamash? were enjoying their reunion, Galen had other things on his mind. He knelt down by Lawrence, checking the man's pulse. "Still alive. Not sure whether that's a good thing or not."

Galen stood up, actually taking the time to look at his surroundings now that the majority of the danger had passed. The manor was quite impressive, though he hated to admit it. "Hell of a house you've built yourself Lawrence. Too bad it was built on the backs and bones of better men than you."

"Hey, Galen!"

He turned in response, but didn't react in time to avoid having Valor's fist strike him across the face. Galen reeled back a few steps, caught totally off guard by the assault. "What the hell are you doing Valor?!"

"I could ask you the same! What were you thinking?! You put Tamash? in danger for your own selfish needs! It was just dumb luck that Lawrence's gun didn't work!"

Galen sighed with exasperation. "You idiot, she was never in any danger! It wasn't dumb luck, it was all part of my plan! I created a small shield inside the chamber of the gun to keep the bullet from firing!"

Valor blinked in surprise. "Wait...you can do that?"

Galen nodded. "Yeah. And I couldn't tell you, or it wouldn't have worked out."

Valor bowed his head, a sheepish sort of expression on his face. "Oh. I see. Well then, I'm sorry I punched you."

Galen waved a hand dismissively. "It's fine, I probably would have felt the same in your position."

Tamash? chose to chime in then, her voice ringing out in both of their minds. "Planned or not, I don't particularly care for thinking that I'm about to have my head blown off."

Galen smiled apologetically. "Yeah, sorry about that. If I had been given a bit more time, I might have come up with something else, but I had no idea how long he would hold off on shooting for."

"I get it, I just don't like it. Anyway, is he still alive?" She asked, jerking her head toward Lawrence.

"Yeah, he's just knocked out. Might have killed him if the carpet and floor weren't so damn soft, but, I'd rather not be a killer."

"I guess I get that too. Now, can somebody please get this collar off me?"

Valor rushed over to her and immediately started to loo for a way to remove the black circlet around her neck. After a minute he took a step back, looking at it in confusion. "I have no idea how to get this thing off."

"He had a control for the shock function on his wrist. Maybe there's a release button." Tamash? suggested.

"Hold on, it's a SHOCK COLLAR?!"

Tamash? gently placed a paw on Valor's shoulder. "Calm down. It's like I said before, it's all over now. Don't worry about it. I get that your angry about everything that has happened, but please, just let it go."

Valor sighed. "Fine. For you, I'll let it go."

"I think this should do it."

The two of them looked over to Galen, who was kneeling beside Lawrence again. Galen gingerly pressed one of the buttons on the black band of metal around Lawrence's wrist, and with a slight snap the collar around Tamash?'s neck opened. She immediately pulled it off and threw it across the room, glad to finally be rid of it.

Seeing her pull the collar from her neck set off a bell in Valor's memory, prompting him to reach around to the back of his neck to untie the red ribbon of her Soothe Bell. Pulling it from his neck he held it out for her to take. "I think you would prefer this, right?"

Her face lit up at the sight. "My bell! I thought I had lost it. You had it this whole time?"

He nodded with a smile. "I was keeping it safe for you."

She took the bell, and tied it around her own neck, tweaking it once to hear the beautiful sound produced by the little silver sphere. "I've really missed this." Looking back to him she added, "And I've really missed you."

He gently wrapped his arms around her, pulling her in close. "I've missed you too."

"Hey kid, sorry to ruin the moment, but we should get out of here."

Valor reluctantly separated himself from Tamash?, though he knew Galen was right. Tamash? seemed to have something else in mind though. "Hold on, we can't leave yet. I won't leave without the others."

Valor canted his head with a quizzical expression. "Others?"

Tamash? nodded. "The other pokémon that were imprisoned here with me."

Galen ran a hand through his hair, considering that. "Well, I couldn't leave them here with a clean conscience. Alright, you two go get the other pokémon, and then come back here."

"Hold on, what are you going to do?"

"Don't worry about it Valor, just hurry up."

Valor considered arguing, but he decided it would just be a waste of time, and with Tamash? leading the way they set off through the mansion. A few minutes of working their way through the twisting corridors brought them to the set of glass doors leading out to the enclosed forest. They made their way through the foliage until they arrived at the waterfall pool, where Gardevoir, Lopunny and Lilligant all were, each looking rather confused. Hearing their approach, the three turned to look, and all immediately acquired looks of even greater confusion. Gardevoir was the one to voice the questions in all of their minds. "Tamash?, what's going on? We heard explosions, then our collars all just...popped off. And who is this with you?"

Tamash? smirked. "Well, this would be Valor, my mate."

Their collective jaws dropped in surprise. Leaning close to Tamash?, Valor whispered, "You uh...you didn't mention that one of them was a Gardevoir."

"So? Is that a problem?"

"No, it's...not like Gardevoirs make me nervous, or worried for my well being or anything."

"Don't worry, she's nice, and_probably_ won't rape you." Tamash? said with a mischievous smile.

"Excuse me, but what are you two whispering about?"

They turned back to face the trio of pokémon, Valor cringing slightly at the sound of the Psychic-type's voice in his mind. Tamash? hesitated, then said, "Well, uh...Valor...is a little...skittish when it comes to Gardevoirs."

"Why?"

The question was directed not at Tamash?, but at Valor himself. He crossed his arms and looked away, avoiding Gardevoir's gaze. "I'd rather not talk about it."

Deciding to stop the conversation for the sake of her mate's dignity, Tamash? said, "Look, we really don't have time for this right now. You three head to Lawrence's study, there's a friend of ours waiting there."

Though she wished to pursue the topic, Gardevoir valued a chance at freedom more, so, along with Lopunny and Lilligant, headed into the mansion, bound for the now somewhat destroyed study. When they were gone, Tamash? turned back toward the pool and telepathically called out, "Milotic, you can come out. We have a chance to get out of here!"

Valor gave her a sideways look of confusion. "Milotic?"

Tamash? gave an affirmative nod. "Yeah. She's kind of shy."

"So, you...made friends with a snake pokémon?"

Tamash? smirked. "Why do you say that as though it's strange?"

"Because-"

Valor was cut off by the emergence of Milotic from the pool, water coming off her body in sheets. She immediately voiced what sounded like a question, and Valor as usual had to rely on Tamash? for a translation. "Are...are we really getting out?"

Tamash? nodded. "This is my mate. He came here to get me, and you and the others are coming with us."

Milotic seemed over joyed for a moment, but then her expression changed to one of concern. "Um...I'm not really made for traveling over land. I'm built for swimming. How am I supposed to come along?"

Tamash? was stumped into silence by that, having given it no prior consideration. It was Valor who offered the solution. Directing his attention to the Water-type he said, "Well, if you were a wild pokémon when you were taken by Lawrence, then I could catch you, and bring you along like that."

Milotic was surprised to say the least, but as she rolled the idea around in her head, not only did it seem like the only real solution, but she also liked the idea of traveling around with a trainer. Then of course, she also didn't mind the idea of getting to spend more time with Tamash?...

Her mind made up, Milotic nodded with a smile, then moved closer to the shore and to them. Valor quickly pulled an unused Pokéball from his bag, and tapped Milotics forehead with it, transforming the rainbow scaled pokémon into a red ball of light that was drawn into the red and white capsule. The Pokéball twitched three times, then locked, making Milotic the newest addition to Valor's family of pokémon.

Tamash? starred quietly at the little capsule for a moment, then looked to Valor. "So, is she going to become a permanent member of the team? 'Cause, honestly, no one would argue if you used her as a replacement for say...Sangoshou."

Valor chuckled as he attached the ball to his belt. "Yeah, I think I can do that."

The two of them turned and started making their way back through the house to where Galen and the others were waiting for them. As they made their way through the maze of passageways, Tamash? asked, "So, what are you going to name her?"

"I'm not totally sure, but I was thinking I would go with something that means 'Sea Serpent'."

Tamash? gave an approving nod. "Yep, something like that would work."

"So, how did you become friends with her?"

Tamash? blushed at the memory. "I'll...uh, I'll tell you later. Now probably isn't the best time."

They shortly arrived at the shattered entrance to Lawrence's study, where Galen-along with the other pokémon-was waiting less than patiently for them to return. "Come on, what took so long? We need to hurry up and get out of here!"

"We were dealing with getting a Milotic travel capable. But, what's the rush?"

Galen picked up a binder from Lawrence's desk, holding it up with a victorious smile. "This, is a record of all of Lawrence's criminal activities over the past year. Smuggling, fraud, black mail, hiring hit men. It's all here. Apparently he liked to keep score of all the people he had screwed over. Once I found this, I made an anonymous call to the Celadon Police Department. They'll be here shortly, and this scumbag," Galen delivered a light kick to the unconscious man's side, them continued, "Will be behind bars before you know it."

"That's great, but why do we have to hurry to get out of here?"

Galen gave an exasperated sigh. "Because, if we don't, we'll be arrested for breaking and entering, not to mention assault. I already found and erased all security footage for about the last two hours, so we can basically get out of here without there being any evidence against us but Lawrence's word."

Valor nodded understandingly. "Then what are we waiting for, let's get out of-"

Valor stopped suddenly as the sound of distant sirens reached their ears.

"Shit! We have less time than I thought. Find me a mirror!"

Valor blinked in confusion. "A mirror? How does that help us?"

Galen sighed in frustration. "Just trust me. Get me a mirror, and I can get us out of here. You know what, never mind, I think I have one."

Galen set his bag down on the ground and started rifling through the various pockets. After a moment he produced a small mirror. "I keep this for when I have to shave on the road, but, sacrifices have to be made."

Galen placed his palm against the mirror, then let out a small pulse of Aura, shattering it.

It was quiet for a moment, then Tamash? voiced the question that was on all of their minds. "Okay, I ask: What the hell did that accomplish?"

Galen smiled. "Wait for it."

As the sound of the sirens drew closer, they all began to grow nervous, except for Galen. Then, unbidden, the shadows in the corners of the room seemed to grow darker and denser. As the room fell under an unnatural eclipse, a single point of pure black energy appeared in the center of the room. That point began to expand until it had formed a pulsing vortex of energy that consisted of shades of black, grey, and midnight blue.

Everyone but Galen stared at the portal in disbelief. Valor turned to Galen with an expression of confused disbelief. "What is that?!"

Galen shook his head. "No time to explain. Just go through the portal."

"Hell no! I am not getting anywhere near that thing until you explain what it is!"

Galen gave a defeated sigh. "Alright then. Have it your way." Galen grabbed Valor by his shoulders, then proceeded to give him an unceremonious push through the swirling darkness.

Tamash? stared in shock at Galen. "Did you just shove my mate through a swirling vortex of dark energy?"

Galen nodded, then gestured to the portal. "And I'll do the same to you unless you go through willingly. And judging by the sound of those sirens, you don't have long to make a choice."

Tamash? gulped, then turned to the other pokémon. "Come on girls, were going through."

Lopunny snorted. "You don't really expect us to go with this psychopath?"

Tamash? sighed. "Unfortunately, I do."

With clear reluctance, Tamash? and the other pokémon filed through the portal. After they were through, Galen himself stepped through, the swirling disappearing behind him s he stepped out onto solid rock. The others were all there, all looking as though they were going to be sick. With a slight smile Galen said, "Yeah, sorry, I should've warned you guys. The first time going through one of those can make you a bit queasy."

Staggering to his feet, Valor threw Galen an incredibly pissed look. "A little queasy?! That's a massive understatement!"

"You think that's bad, wait 'til you look around at where we are."

It was then that Valor took a moment to look around, and he immediately wished he hadn't. They were standing on a floating platform of solid rock, which was one of many that seemed to be everywhere. Perhaps the most disturbing thing was that the 'sky'-which was a very dark mix of blues and greys-seemed not only to be above them, but stretched around everything, forming some sort of great dark sphere around...where ever it was they were.

Struggling desperately to maintain his composure and not start freaking out, Valor turned to Galen and asked, "Where...where are we?"

Galen placed a hand on Valor's shoulder with a smile. "Welcome, to the Distortion World."

"The...the Distortion World? As in, the Distortion World, that is home...of the super ancient legendary pokémon Giratina? The pokémon...that was supposedly banished to the Distortion World by Arceus because of its violence?"

"Well, your history is a little inaccurate, but essentially yes."

Valor took a deep breath. "I see. We are all going to die, aren't we?"

Galen gave an amused snort. "No. We're not all going to die. Contrary to popular belief, Giratina isn't some great evil entity. He's actually an old friend of mine."

Having recovered from her nausea, Tamash? said with a bemused smile, "You of all people would be friends with a legendary pokémon that is said to rival the strength of Palkia and Dialga."

Valor stared at her in disbelief. "How are you not freaking out about this?! We are in the Distortion World! A world where the laws of space and time are said to be null and void!"

"Yes, and? If Galen's not worried about it, I don't see why we should be. Besides, I think it's rather clear that Galen has been here before. I would imagine he knows what he's talking about."

Galen nodded. "Remember how I told you in Snowpoint that I had a really quick method of travel? Well, this would be it. Because you're right, the laws of space and time are-as the name 'Distortion World' would suggest-distorted. You can walk a mile in here, and it could be twenty in our world. It all depends on where you came out of this world."

"Oh. Well, that's nice. So, tell me, when did YOU ALL GO INSANE?! Why are we acting like all of this is ordinary? Like this happens everyday? This is not normal! How the hell did we even get in here?"

"We aren't insane, and for me this is fairly ordinary. As for getting in here, Giratina opened that portal we came through." Galen answered.

By this point Gardevoir, Lopunny and Lilligant had also recovered from coming through the portal, and were all now watching what was going on before them with increasing levels of interest. Tamash? on the other hand was growing increasingly concerned, as she had never seen Valor behave the way he was now. "Valor, please calm down. I don't like seeing you like this. You acting like this isn't normal either."

Gardevoir chose that moment to chime in, her voice sounding in all of their minds. "Tamash? is right. You don't need to be so freaked out."

Valor slowly turned to face the Psychic-type. "You be quiet. I don't want to hear anything from you. Just stay out of my head."

Gardevoir stared back at him, trying to make sense of that response. "What is your problem with me? I didn't do anything to you. Tamash? said you have some kind of problem with Gardevoirs. What is that about? I'd really like to know, because right now you're starting to piss me off."

"What is my problem with Gardevoirs? You really want to know? Fine. I have a problem with Gardevoirs, because the last one I had any involvement with was a psychopathically sadistic male Gardevoir who telekinetically bent me over at his trainer's command, then proceeded to fuck me against my will. Then, a little less than two weeks later, I have a run in with the same damn Gardevoir, who freezes me in place, then takes control of my mind and forces me to mentally re-experience what he did to me. _That_is why I have a problem with Gardevoirs. That is why I don't trust them, and why I would appreciate it if you stayed out of my head."

His explanation had shocked Gardevoir into silence by the end, but had the opposite effect on both Galen and Lopunny, who both burst out laughing when he finished. Upon seeing the look on Valor's face Galen stifled himself and quietly said, "Sorry. That's uh...not funny."

Lopunny on the other hand continued until she simply couldn't breath anymore, finally stopping a few minutes later. During that time Gardevoir had done her best to choose a few careful words to respond to Valor's explanation with. "Valor, I can understand being upset about having sex forced upon you like that. But you know, most of us Gardevoirs aren't like that. As a species we tend to be very gentle and protective. You don't have to be scared of us over the actions of one member of our species. Besides, it's rather well known that male Gardevoirs can be a little...unstable."

Valor took a slow, deep breath, trying to steady his nerves. "I...I know that Gardevoirs aren't all like that. I just...feel uneasy when it comes to them, because I can't stand the idea of another one of them taking control of me like that."

Gardevoir gave an understanding nod. "I know what you mean. For almost two years I've been at the mercy of a sadistic human's needs, but I'm still willing to judge humans based on the individuals, not on the actions of one. Don't you think you could do the same?"

"Yeah, I guess you're right. I should-" Valor stopped cold. "What do you mean you've been at the mercy of a human's needs?"

Gardevoir blinked in surprise at the question. "Didn't Tamash? tell you? Lawrence...well he..." She trailed off, but she didn't need to finish for Valor to get her meaning.

He turned to Tamash?, who immediately looked away from him. "Tamash?, you didn't...I mean, he didn't...do that...to you, did he?"

Avoiding his looking at him, and with clear reluctance, she nodded. "He did. I had no choice. He...threatened you. I had to, or you would have suffered for it."

Valor walked over to where she was standing, and gently wrapped his arms around her, drawing her in close. "I'm so sorry. I'm so sorry that you had to go through that...especially because it's my fault. Just like all of this has been. I'm sorry."

She snuggled against him, taking comfort in his embrace. "I'll be fine. Just, please stop blaming yourself." Then, making sure he was the only one who could hear her, she said, "You know, now I understand. I understand why you let Aitana's Gardevoir do that to you. I also understand just how horrible you must have felt afterward. How...how did you ever get over it?"

"I never really did. Though...the feelings fade with time, the memories never really do. You just kind of have to...keep going, and not let it take over your life. For me, I just focused more on...well, how I feel about you. That got me through the days after it happened. Understand?"

She nodded. She understood, but she still couldn't stop the tears forming at the corners of her eyes. Seeing this, Valor gently wiped away the forming droplets. "It'll probably be a while, but eventually the emotions about it will go away. It really just takes time. And I'm always here if you need me."

Sniffling slightly, she gave another short nod. "I know you are. I would rather it had never happened, but, I'm glad that I have you to help me through it."

Valor hugged her tightly again, then said, "Come on, we should get going." He turned to Galen and the others, who had all turned to look away from them while they were talking. "Galen? We can go now. Lead the way, would you?"

Galen hesitated for a moment, then quietly nodded, a set off along the path of rock platforms that floated before them. The others set off after him, with Valor and Tamash? bringing up the rear, walking close to each other, him holding her paw in his hand as they went along.

***

When Lawrence had woken he had found himself in handcuffs, his house full of police, and on top of that, not only could he not remember anything from about the last hour or so, but his skull was throbbing with pain. He did know one thing though: someone had attacked his home, found his files, then left them for the police to find. Unfortunately, those files had been full of the kind of evidence and records that lands one almost instantly in a prison.

He now sat in an interrogation room in the Celadon Police Department, waiting for someone to come and question him on what had happened. His hands were still cuffed, and his head was still hurting despite the pain killers he had been provided with. As he sat there he struggled to work through the haze that clouded his memories, trying to figure out how he had wound up in this situation.

After sitting at the silvery table in that windowless room for almost an hour, the door opened, and in walked a man with auburn hair who was wearing a light grey trench coat. Lawrence could tell immediately that he wasn't a police officer. "Who are you? What are you doing here?"

With a congenial sort of smile the man said, "My name is Zyle. I am here to question you on behalf of InterPol, or, as you probably know us, the International Police. I am one of InterPol's Kanto operatives, and this has been brought to our attention." Zyle punctuated the sentence by dropping the binder full of Lawrence's records on the table.

Zyle pulled out the chair across from Lawrence and sat down. "It would appear as though you've been rather busy. Criminal acts encircling the globe, including multiple counts of blackmail, illegal shipping operations, having people killed in your name, and that's all just in the last year or so. I would shudder to think what you've done in the last ten, or fifteen years."

"Would you please just get to the 'questioning' portion of this?"

"As you wish." Over the course of the next half hour Zyle asked various questions about the contents of the records. Once he had everything he needed to know, Zyle closed the binder full of files, giving a small sigh of relief. "I'm glad that's over. You have done some really twisted shit, you know that?"

Feeling a bit ore back to his usual self by this time, Lawrence gave a derisive snort. "I am aware of what I have done. After all, how else would I have gotten to where I am?"

"You sicken me. Unfortunately for me, this isn't over quiet yet. I also need to ask you what led to the state of your home and your person when you were arrested."

Lawrence gave a dismissive wave. "I honestly have no idea. I can't remember a thing. I think who ever was behind it must have hit me over the head at some point. It would certainly explain why my head was throbbing when I woke up."

Zyle nodded. "Yeah, I was told that you were believed to have a low grade concussion. So, you don't remember anything, anything at all?"

"Didn't I already say I don't remember anything? Are you going to keep wasting my time?"

Zyle stood with an exasperated sigh. "No, I do believe I'm done here. At this point Lawrence, even though you might make bail, you will most certainly end up proven guilty in court. Enjoy you cell."

As Zyle made to walk out, a thought occurred to Lawrence. "Hold on, before you go, when the police were in my home, were there...any pokémon? Any where in my home?"

Zyle turned back to face him, a confused look on his face. "No. Just you, some very scared servants, and a lot of unconscious guards-all of which are under questioning, just as you are. Why?"

Lawrence then began to laugh. It started as a low sort of chuckle, then slowly it grew louder, and gained a sadistic, psychotic sort of edge to it, causing Zyle to feel a mixture of dread and concern. "Dare I ask what is so funny?"

Catching his breath, Lawrence responded to the question. "I...I do believe I can tell you who is behind what occurred in my home. You see, I was a bit of a collector of rare and beautiful pokémon. Through hiring Pokémon Hunters, I recently acquired a Lucario from her trainer."

"And you're saying this trainer is the one who broke into your home? Just for his Lucario?"

Lawrence nodded. "Of course, he had a rather interesting reason for coming after her. You see, Zyle, this trainer-Valor-and his Lucario-Tamash?-have a very interesting relationship."

***

The sun was setting on the forest. In a small clearing near the edge of the forest, the shadows suddenly grew denser, and a shadowy portal opened. The first one to come through the vortex was Galen, followed by Tamash?, then Valor, and finally the other three came tumbling out, all of them but Galen looking as though they were going to be sick.

Taking in slow, deliberate breaths to avoid vomiting, Valor said, "I...thought...it was...only...the first time...that would make us queasy."

With a snicker Galen said, "No, I said the first time would make you queasy. I never said it was only the first time. It usually takes three or four to get used to it."

"You're an ass."

"Well, maybe a little bit." Taking a look around Galen added, "I'm going to set up camp here. I don't know about you guys, but I'm exhausted. We can get back to civilization tomorrow."

When there were no arguments, he got started, and an hour or so later three tents had been erected in a triangular ring around a small fire. They all wound up seated around the cheery little blaze, in a formation similar to that of the tents. Galen sat on side of the fire, Lopunny, Gardevoir, and Lilligant were bunched together on another side of it, and Valor and Tamash? sat on the third side. Tamash? was sitting in Valor's lap, leaning back against him, sound asleep.

While Valor was trying to stay still so as not to wake her, his mind was incredibly busy. Before nodding off, she had told him about everything that had happened to her while in Lawrence's home. Some of it had only served to solidify his hatred for the man, but some of it, such as how she had come to befriend Milotic, or Umi, as he had decided to name her, simply dumbfounded him, not to mention making him blush profusely when ever he thought about it.

The other three pokémon were watching Valor with mild interest, finding his less than well hidden thoughts to be somewhat amusing. Leaning close to Gardevoir, Lopunny whispered, "You know, even though he seems a little high strung, I can see why Tamash? likes him. He's cute, you know, for a human."

Gardevoir gave a tired sort of sigh, looking at Lopunny with more than a little exhaustion. "Lopunny, keep your crotch to yourself for once."

"I didn't say I wouldn't!"

"You don't have to say it. It's you. I've known you for long enough to know what you're thinking­-and that's without reading your mind."

"What, are you saying I'm predictable?"

"That's exactly what I'm saying."

Lilligant stifled a giggle, finding amusement in in the back and forth going on between them.

Lopunny turned to the Grass-type, an irritated look on her furry face. "What are you laughing about?"

Lilligant shook her head in amusement. "You. Both of you. It's strange how little we have changed, despite the fact that we have our freedom back. Even with everything that's going on, you two still squabble like a flock of Starlies."

Lopunny and Gardevoir looked at each other for a moment, then they both started laughing, as they realised that Lilligant was correct. Even with the sudden changes in their lives, they were still the same.

Drawn from his thoughts by the laughter of the trio of pokémon, Valor decided to just accept what Tamash? had told him, as there was nothing he could really do about it, and obsessing wouldn't do any good. Now he had another concern he wanted to address.

He looked over to Galen, who was now lying on his back, looking up at the night sky. "Hey, Galen, can I ask you something?"

Galen pushed himself up into a sitting position, and said, "You just did, but I suppose another question wouldn't hurt."

Ignoring his friend's attempt at a joke, Valor started to explain. "When I was in Lilycove, and I fought Faerin, he used this attack against me-that I barely managed to dodge-that was like a bolt of black lightning. Then today, you used a similar-in fact almost identical-attack to destroy the front doors of Lawrence's home. It looks like it's really powerful, and I was thinking it could be useful in the future. Do you think you would be able to teach me how to do that?"

Galen almost immediately shook his head. "No. It's an attack that is usually only used by those who control dark Aura. I learned how to use it through a lucky accident. I'm not sure if how I did it would work in a teaching capacity. But..."

"But what?"

"I can't tell you how to use it, but keep this in mind: If you ever truly need that kind of power, if ever you need to protect something that much that you would risk giving in to darker emotions, then remember that great amounts of power can be found in a technique you already know."

Valor gave a weary sigh. "Why the hell do you have to be so enigmatic all the time? And what do you mean 'risk giving in to darker emotions'?"

"One, I'm enigmatic because, well, I am. As for the darker emotions part, you have to enjoy the pain and destruction of an attack like that, at least the first time you use it. If you can gain control of yourself after that, then you don't have to worry about it. For me, I learned how to use it at a time when I lost all control of my anger. And believe me when I say, you should pray that you never see me-or any other Guardian with a red Aura-when they become truly angry. Luckily, there only four or five Guardians with red Auras."

Valor was about to say something, but forgot what when Tamash? stirred in his lap, waking from her nap with a very toothy yawn. Stifling a laugh he asked, "Sleep well?"

Though she knew he was teasing her, she quietly nodded and snuggled back against him saying, "I had forgotten how comfortable it is to sleep on top of you. I haven't slept this so in a month."

Not for the first time that day, Valor felt a pang of guilt and regret. Though she had told him not to blame himself, he couldn't help but do exactly that. He quickly pushed those thoughts from his mind, trying not to think about it too much. "Well, if your that tired, maybe we should go to bed." he suggested.

It was Galen who responded, saying, "Actually, we should all get some sleep. The Distortion World Portal brought us out between Celadon City and Saffron City, but it's still gonna take a little while to get to Saffron from here."

Without waiting for a response, Galen got to his feet, and walked over to his tent. As he was about to close the flap he said, "Oh, and if you two decide to celebrate your reunion at any point, please try to keep it quiet."

Valor blushed and Tamash? giggled at what he was suggesting. Tamash? was the one who responded, saying, "No promises, but we'll try."

Valor shook his head as Galen's tent was zipped closed. "Don't encourage him please."

As he said this, the other pokémon all got up and retreated to the tent that Galen had put up for them, Gardevoir bidding them goodnight before their tent too was zipped shut.

"Come on sweetheart, let's go to our tent, shall we?"

"Carry me."

Valor started to laugh, but then realised she wasn't joking. "But, the tent is like ten feet away. I'm pretty sure you can make it on your own."

She shook her head most emphatically. "Nope. Too far."

Valor shook his head, a bemused smile on his face. "Alright then, I guess I have no choice."

Against her protests he wormed his way out from under her, then turned so that he was crouching with his back to her. "Well, grab on."

She reached up and wrapped her arms around his neck, then he carefully took hold of her legs and stood up, carrying her on his back. As he had said the tent was rather close by, so it didn't take long for him to carry her over to it. Once inside he gently set her down on top of the sleeping bag that was already laid out there, which she quickly snuggled herself into. With an ever so slightly exhausted sigh he asked, "Do you think you could move over enough for me to fit in there?"

With a playful sort of smile and a tone of mock sarcasm she said, "Oh, I suppose."

Valor pulled off his shirt and was in the sleeping bag with her only a moment later. It was a tight fit, but after being apart from each other, neither minded at all. Though she was glad to be back in his arms, she said, "Despite what Galen may think, I'm not really in a...sex sort of mood. If you don't mind, I'd rather just make due with cuddling tonight."

With a gentle smile Valor said, "That's fine. I understand. Goodnight Tamash?."

He tightened his embrace for a moment, then loosened up again and closed his eyes. Tamash? gently nuzzled him once then did the same, thinking not for the first time that she was glad to be back with him.

Unfortunately for her, her earlier nap seemed to have had the unfortunate effect of making it difficult for her to fall asleep. Though her eyes were closed, she felt very awake all of a sudden. For almost half an hour she tried to relax enough to fall asleep, but found herself unable to do so. Realising the futility of her efforts she opened her eyes, her vision quickly adjusting to the darkness.

She smiled softly as she watched her mate sleep. She had missed that too. She so often woke up before him, that she had spent a fair amount of time simply watching the gentle rise and fall of his chest as he slept. As she looked upon his face, she felt a pang of sorts, but not in her heart.

She gulped as she realised that for some reason or another, she was becoming aroused. She bit her lip, debating with herself for a minute, then she decided she really didn't have a choice. With a gentle tap to his shoulder she quietly said, "Valor, wake up."

His eyes slowly opened, struggling to adjust to the darkness. "What's going on? Is it almost morning?"

Tamash? blushed, and was quiet for a moment before responding. "No. It...actually hasn't been very long since you fell asleep."

"Uh...okay. So what's going on then?"

"Um...you know...how I said...I wasn't really in the mood for more than just cuddling? Well...that has kind of changed."

It took a few seconds for that to register, but when it did a grin spread across Valor's face, which quickly changed to a look of concern. "Are you sure about that? I mean...with everything that has happened...to you..."

He trailed off, but he didn't have to finish. She understood his concern. "I know what you mean, but Valor, I haven't had enjoyable sex with a male in almost a month, and so help me I'm going to tonight, whether you want to or-"

She was cut off as he took her in a passionate kiss. When he pulled away he smiled and said, "Believe me, I want to. I haven't had any sex in a month. How do you think I feel?"

She giggled, then kissed him, slipping her tongue between his lips and into his mouth, both enjoying the feeling of her tongue sliding along his. Tamash? was less than pleased when he pulled away a moment later to remove his remaining articles of clothing. Though she knew why humans wore clothing, she had often thought it to be rather inconvenient. The moment he was completely undressed she was on top of him, his rapidly growing length pressing against her already moist entrance.

He was already breathing heavily, and it occurred to her that he wouldn't last very long in his current state. Without a word she turned her body around and took his swelling member into her mouth, only increasing its rate of growth, and drawing a sharp intake of breath from him.

She wrapped her tongue around the throbbing flesh, sliding it around her mouth, giving attention to every inch of it. He had almost forgotten just how wonderful it felt when she did this, and laid his head back with his eyes closed as he enjoyed the sheer ecstasy of the moment.

As she had predicted he didn't last for very long, and a moment later her mouth was flooded with his cream. She allowed it to stay in her mouth for a moment, long enough to enjoy the taste, the salty flavour that she hadn't even realised she missed, before swallowing it all in a single gulp.

Satisfied that he would now be able to endure a proper breeding session, she turned herself back around so they were face to face once more, sparkling red eyes meeting bright blue in the darkness.

She gently slid her paw down between them, being careful to avoid cutting or jabbing him with her wrist spike, and guided his still stiff manhood to her now dripping entrance. As they didn't have much room in the sleeping bag, she couldn't raise her whole body up, so she settled for keeping her torso flat against his, and raised her hips, then forced herself down to the hilt of his length with the familiar muffled thump of her fur against his skin.

It had been so long now since she had done this, that she felt almost as though he was stretching her for the first time again, a sensation she was finding immensely enjoyable. She started pistoning along his length with what little space she had, and as she increased her speed he firmly grabbed hold of her rear, using the grip as leverage to push her just that much farther down against him.

For the first time in what felt like an eternity, they began mixing their Auras, casting that wonderfully emerald coloured light upon the canvas of the tent as they touched each others souls, feeling the deepest and truest emotions of one another. Both enveloped in that light, they felt as though they were whole once more.

Tamash? and Valor were both breathing heavily by this point, and Valor could swear he was able to smell his fluids on her breath. He didn't have long to enjoy the strangely arousing smell though, as she bit into his right shoulder. It was a fairly gentle bite, but still more than enough to send a shudder of pleasure down his spine.

For her part, Tamash? was struggling not to start moaning with sheer pleasure as she continued to pound away with her hips, each impact driving her into an ever so slightly more frenzied state. She continued to build force and speed, barely keeping herself within limits that would be safe for her mate to take. Valor was getting his favourite pleasure from her biting him, and now it was her turn to feel her favourite sensation.

She kept at it, each motion taking him as deep into her passageway as he could go, until finally the unending impacts caused her cervix to give way, allowing him to slide the top most inch of his length into her most sacred of areas, the opening quickly closing around him just under the tip, limiting their movement even more.

Despite being limited to shorter strokes, Tamash? didn't relent until with one final thrust she was pushed over the edge and into her first proper orgasm in what seemed in that moment to have been years. The rhythmic contractions around his manhood managed to push Valor the rest of the way to an orgasm of his own, directly filling her womb with that ever so slight chance of new life.

As they were now locked together she could do little more than collapse on top of him, though he didn't mind, as it had been just another one of those little things that he had missed while they were apart. He gently wrapped his arms around her, holding her as close as he could.

Neither said a word as they fell asleep in that position, but no words were necessary between them to convey the single phrase that entered both of their minds before they were taken by the world of dreams: I love you.