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The Path Ahead

By Laz Briar

The world turned upside down at the impromptu announcement of Candice's early retirement. Sure, entertainment media exploded by blasting banners of bright words all across the Unova region (and to its sister regions not long after), with pundits from every tier of the Pageant industry chiming in as to why.

“Why!" they all asked. Why indeed – why did one of the most prolific trainers and groomers drop out of her career with such stunning irreverence? Immaculate indifference, some observers called it. Irresponsible, others. A waste, a conspiracy, understandable, on and on. And what of her dear poke'mon, Rosa, the shiny Lopunny, a gem among even the most precious morphs?

A hurricane of queries and attention surrounded her. Just as she predicted.

Chris understood now – and was grateful. The night after his. . . “meeting" with Candice and her illustrious counterpart, Rosa, was a complex one. The reality of his decision started to settle in, and he realized, how exactly was he going to get on with things?

He had an obligation now, beyond his blooming feelings for Rosa. He had, as Candice requested, to protect her from the paparazzi of the poke'mon world. Rosa was exhausted with most of it, especially the pageant aspect, seeking refuge in someone more honest. Someone, apparently, like himself. And in himself, a clear path to a simpler life was founded. Chris was not consumed by wealth or desire for greatness – at least not outside the realms of his own goals. He would, Candice hoped, give Rosa a life free from the confines of the “upper," the “above."

Chris had no complaints. Only, how to go about it, he wondered? Travelling with a prized poke'morph like Rosa wasn't exactly subtle. While morphs and poke'mon variants held similar characteristics, there was likely someone out here who would recognize her. If they did, what then? Hounded by info-chasers for the rest of his life, Chris wagered, because there was no way he was leaving Rosa behind.

His instinct, then, was to get away from the crowds of Nimbasa City and somewhere a little more familiar. He was too far from home, but the coast would do fine. Just as well, Chris wasn't much for the crowds and busy populous of a city. So many lights and too much noise – one could get lost in all of it. And, unfortunately, the closer Rosa stayed in proximity to Candice, the likelier it was she would be “discovered."

The morning of their planned exodus, Candice gave a teary farewell to her Lopunny.

“Take care of her, kid," she said to Chris. “If you don't, she'll snap you in half. Or, Arceus willing, I will."

Not as though Chris intended to do Rosa any harm, but now there was the fear of death in him from the exchange. He promised her he'd take care of her for the rest of his days, as long as he could. The rest was up to fate, he supposed.

Seeking disguise, Rosa decided to wear a small form fitting attire, casual in style, with a long-brimmed hat to hide her features. It was enough, at least, that no one would glance their way. Certainly, at close inspection someone would discover it was Rosa, but then again, why would anyone find Chris interesting to begin with? For once, his lack of fame was an advantage.

Chris also decided the best path, at least for now, was to depart as far from Nimbasa as possible – within reason. Cities were hives of social media and information, and the longer he remained, the likelier it was his group would be discovered. He wanted to spare both his companions this kind of turmoil. He knew only one alternative, to taken to the eastern parts of the region where populi were sparser and more distant. He spent a lot of time travelling so he knew the roads well, figuring it a welcome break from all the glitz and noise of city-life.

With Candice's announcement in place, the entirety of Nimbasa was set on metaphorical fire. Anyone who paid attention to the pageant event was stunned – to put it mildly. This allowed Chris and his trio to exit the city without much difficultly, though they had to maintain a low profile. Once outside city limits, however, they were free from the buzz of towering Nimbasa, much to the delight of Rana and Rosa.

The forested paths embraced them with sunny skies and quiet ambiance. Trees danced to life from the gentle touch of wind. Wild poke'mon skittered amongst tall blades of glass and observed the trio with curious distinction. It was familiar, comforting. Chris was never good with overwhelming crowds and bustling cities – he figured that was something you had to live with for years. But this? He knew this. Without sounds and traffic and noise, he could better focus, and focus was something you needed as a Groomer – each poke'mon was an artwork requiring intense care and consideration.

As they travelled farther from the nexus of Nimbasa City, the weight of things started to settle. Chris was no longer preoccupied with worrying about escape. Now, he had to foster a new relationship.

Rana – his Eevee – wasn't quite so keen on things yet.

“Vee!" she'd say with a stubborn huff as the trio stopped in a clearing where two forked paths lead to different Routes.

Chris looked down, noting her frustrated expression. She was giving Rosa a scrutinizing gaze, one both distrustful and concerned.

“Rana?" Chris said, looking down. She grumbled.

This enticed a chirpy giggle from the shiny Lopunny, who appeared none too concerned about the Eevee's aggravation.

“Ah, it's okay," Chris said, petting her. “I know, I know, it's kind of different. But she's our new friend. We've got to take care of her."

Suppose Chris couldn't blame his Eevee entirely. This change was quite abrupt. He and Rana had travelled together for over a year now, just the two of them. For a long time, he assumed it would stay that way. Now, there was a new dynamic, and this likely caused Rana concern.

Chris turned to Rosa, sheepish. “Sorry, she doesn't mean it," he said. “She's just looking out for me, that's all. Out here it's always dangerous. We've gotta look out for each other."

Rosa tilted her head, smiling. Granted, it wasn't like Rosa was in any particular danger. She was a League champ and held her own against some of the strongest poke'morphs around, despite her normal type affinity. If anything, Chris and Rana were safer because of her.

Offering an olive branch, Rosa knelt down to the Eevee, pulling a little mint treat from her pocket. Candice mentioned these were Rosa's favorite and were hard to come by. For a moment, Rana eyed the strange green candy, sniffing at it. However, she promptly turned her nose up, stamping her paws.

"Vee."

Rosa only laughed, putting the mint away. “Lo, lo," she chimed, head shaking. Oh well, she'd try again soon!

Chris was glad there was an attempt for friendliness, and he knew Rana would come around eventually. It was just a matter of building trust. That was challenging to earn, especially with how “events" had occurred the previous night. But given time, he hoped they would become friends.

In the meanwhile, he had to figure out where to go. He didn't have a traditional league standard poke'dex, so a map was his only friend. Beyond this Route, he found, were places closer to the coast where they could lay low. Or, they could stick to the forests, camping for a while. Then again. . . Rosa was a girl of high class. No doubt she was from a world of expensive dinners and five class treatment. Sleeping with the bugs and cold, hard ground? Ech, even Chris wasn't always fond of it.

As Rana continued to stamp her paws at Rosa, Chris discovered something. Not too far along the left path there was a listing for a small hostel, occupied by a researcher of some sort. It was large enough you could find it on a digital Poke'Map, but small in scope so as not to attract too many crowds. Unless you lived in the city – or did nothing but browse social media – Candice's retirement probably wasn't interesting, especially on the road.

He glanced at his two partners and decided this was for the better. There was a lot to learn, both about the new relationship and Rosa herself. A hostel was a good place to set up shop for a few days. Hot meals, warm beds? It was hard to stay mad in those circumstances.

“Let's go girls," he said with a chuckle as Rana kicked up a little dust against her Lopunny counterpart. Rosa didn't mind, hopping away from it.

The hostel didn't take long to find. It was a few miles down the left path, tucked away behind old trees. However, it stood proud with bright, orange wood, a wisp of dancing smoke heaving from its chimney. A few flying poke'mon circled its top, and the gentle churn of a river was audible in the distance. Simple enough, hidden from the eyes of the world.

“How about this?" Chris said, turning to his counterparts. Rosa had her arms behind her, but her eyes danced with intrigued.

“Ooo," she intoned, giving an excited hop. Chris tried to ignore the soft toss of her buxom front when she did that.

Even Rana, who spent their travelling making huffed, frustrated noises, could not hide her delight. She twirled around, bush tail wiggling.

“Eeeev!" she yipped.

“My thoughts exactly," said Chris. He was glad, at least, this eased the two a bit more. And certainly, he was enamored with it as well! Something about the building was. . . majestic. Alluring, even, though he couldn't pinpoint why, exactly.

The trio moved along to the hostel's entrance, which sported multiple levels and wide, fenced fields. Healthy bushes with fat berries resided on its edges, accompanied by carved statues of regal people Chris didn't recognize. Perhaps the founders or other heroic Poke'mon figures? Regardless, it was clearly taken care of, assuring Chris his destination was a good find.

Walking past its gated entrance, he spied no sign of anyone, at least not yet. He imagined there were probably some visitors staying for a while too, but clearly not enough to form a crowd. It was actually quite surprising at how quiet it was. Chris had spent so long in Nimbasa, the ambiance of traffic and chatting crowds had become normal.

Through the creaking door, the gentle aroma of old wood and mixed herbs met him. Fresh wrapped meat sat with pastries, a wide room opening up with multiple seats and tables, much like a cafeteria. Chris saw no one, except for a lone figure behind a desk, a young girl with bright, blue hair. At the trio's entry, she shifted, her locks sparkling, eyes beaming.

“Oh! Hello! Welcome to the Sober Snorlax!"

She waved with great enthuse, practically hopping in her shoes.

He smiled. “O-oh, thanks."

He took a breath. Well, here was the test. He approached, attempting to appear as nonchalant as possible, the girls close behind him. The attendant's eyes wandered over him, then flashed between the Eevee and Lopunny. Her eyes glistened like stars.

“Ooooh my goodness! They're gorgeous!" she said. “The fur is incredible! I mean, I'm sorry, I don't mean to gush, I just. . . wow, your Eevee is amazing and. . . is that, is she a shiny!?"

A torrent of excitement burst from her, none of which Chris expected. But, her reaction indicated, at least, she didn't recognize Rosa. Thank goodness.

Rosa, in the meanwhile, stepped close, looking proud and tossing one of her pink tipped ears. Not to be outdone, Rana tapped the floor and stuck up her nose, showing off her fluff and mane. Again, the attendant beamed.

“Yeah, she is," said Chris with a nod. “Um, and thanks! We work really hard."

The attendant blushed. “Oh, haha, god sorry! I just couldn't help it. They're really pretty! You must be a Groomer!"

Chris' heart flipped. Play it cool, play it cool.

“Uh, kind of, it's more a hobby. I'm not into the competitive scene or anything."

Well, not anymore, he thought.

“I'm amazed! You could easily go pro. Easily. Er, uh, oh! But where are my manners, sorry! I'm Clarabelle! It's nice to meet all of you!"

Chris noted his showoff-y companions, hoping they might settle.

He cleared his throat. “It's okay! I like friendly people. And uh, I'm Chris. And these two are Rosa and Rana."

He gestured to them. Clarabelle dawned such a smile it looked like it might carry her into the sky.

“Oh, so happy to meet all of you then! What brings you this way? Looking for a room?"

Chris nodded. “Yeah. We've been on the road for a few weeks," he said. “We're thinking of travelling along the coast. But we want to plan and rest up, first."

Clarabelle's hands clapped together. “Ah, perfect! Well there's no better stop than ours! The Sober Snorlax has been serving everyone for decades!"

“Ours?"

Yet another series of furious nods. “Mmhm! I just work here! It's been managed by Mr. Brinn since he founded it. I think it was originally for research? I don't know, he talks for a while. . ."

As if casting a conjuring spell, a creaky, withered voice broke between the two. Footsteps were heard, coming down steps.

“Clara. Clara! Clara!"

Chris glanced. Coming downstairs was a thing of a man, an aged fellow with a clean dome and long, pensive beard. His face was shriveled with wrinkles and an expression like he was smelling something particularly foul, while he wore a plain attire.

Clarabelle feigned a laugh. “Speak of the devil. . ."

“Clara!" shouted Mr. Brinn, scuttling over without so much as looking towards Chris.

She sighed. “Yeeees, Mr. Brinn?"

He started wiggling his hands. “Clara. Remember. It's blue towels in the bathroom, white for the wash. That's very important. It's thematic. It's the whole point. I didn't special order color specific toiletries for nothing."

She rubbed her head. “Ah? Oh, sorry Mr. Brinn."

He shook his head. “Sorry doesn't save the guest with the wrong towel. Would you want to dry yourself off with he bathroom cloth? Hmm? Would you?"

Clarabelle rolled her eyes. “I suppose not."

“You suppose."

“Uh, sir," she said, pointing to Chris. “We have guests."

Mr. Brinn dawned an expression like he'd encountered an impossible math problem. His head swung and came upon the trio, who regarded him with bemused caution.

“So, we do. Sell them a room, yet?"

“I was about to. . ."

He scoffed. “Oh you're always about to count bubbles."

Mr. Brinn retrieved a pair of glasses from shirt pocket, cleaning them. Placing them on, he peered at Chris, gaze strolling over him. Judging, studying.

“Uh huh."

He smacked his lips, then saw Rana and Rosa. Especially Rosa. He squinted. Then, glanced between Chris and Rosa.

“Uh huh."

Chris smiled uncomfortably. “It's. . . nice to meet you, sir."

Mr. Brinn stowed away his glasses, laughing. “What? No it isn't. When's the last time you were happy to see a rusty nail?"

Chris didn't know what to say.

“Clara. . . why don't you set this young man up on one of our extra-large rooms, yes?"

He turned to her, though Clarabelle appeared confused.

“I could, I suppose. . ."

He nodded. “You know. The one with the large beds."

She blinked. “Er, well. All right."

Mr. Brinn started to mutter, losing himself. Once more, he looked to Chris, eyes dancing between the trio. He stared at Rosa a while too, brow raised.

“I hope that one isn't yours."

Just as quickly as he appeared, Mr. Brinn started to shuffle off, leaving through the front. Chris was flummoxed, though notably flushed. Was he. . .? Did he. . .?

“Wow, he's uh, interesting," said Chris, rubbing his head.

Clarabelle sighed. “Oh, that's one way to put it. Most of the time he's cranky. But, he pays really well and always makes sure I get off on time, so you know."

“Is he mean?"

She laughed. “No, just old. And tired."

“So uh, extra large rooms. That's one of our king suites. We have two of those, if you'd like. They're a little more expensive, as you can imagine. . . but they do have room service! And free breakfast."

Chris chuckled. Well, it wasn't like he planned to spare expense. He had enough dosh stocked from some winnings during his time as a Groomer, and well, he kind of wanted to impress Rosa. Plus, though he didn't admit it out loud, large bed space would probably be “helpful."

“Okay. I think we'd like that. What do you say, girls?"

Rana wasn't looking. She was sniffing at everything, absorbing the scents of the room, no doubt at a stash of poke'treats somewhere. Rosa, in the meantime, place a hand on hip. Her expression was a bit more knowing. Something mischievous lurked in her eyes.

“I think. . . they'll like it," he said.

“Wonderful!" exclaimed Clarabelle. She began writing some things down, ringing up the reservation.

As she did, Chris remembered another question. “Are you normally busy here?"

“We just came from the city," he continued, careful not to name Nimbasa. “And we're looking for some peace. Does it get crowded here, usually?"

What Chris was really asking was “will anyone show up who could possibly recognize Rosa." Her hat and attire aside, someone with a keen eye might notice her.

Clarabelle, though, shook her head.

“Oh, hardly! We do have a guest here right now, but he's heading out in a day or so, mostly keeps to himself. The busiest we got was hosting a troupe of actors one time but, really, it's super quiet. You'll hardly notice a soul!"

Chris felt relieved. That was promising, at least. And, he supposed, in the rare event someone did recognize Rosa, word might not get out as fast. Whatever helped give them privacy. It was only a day since Clarice's announcement, after all.

“That's great," he said. Clarabelle acknowledged with another smile and rang up the transaction. The price was heavy, but nothing too extreme – and in fact, was cheaper than the rooms at the hotel in Nimbasa.

With this, he retrieved his key and decided to settle in with the girls. Clarabelle indicated they had lots of options for lunch and dinner, especially with various specialty items for poke'mon. All that was left was to settle in.

Once reached, the room was expansive. There was one enormous space for living quarters with a side closet. Another extra room let into a washing space, and a large flat glass window overlooked a sprawling valley of forests and rivers. Sunlight crept in with delicate gold fingers, washing the wooded interior in golden hues, and a pleasant, comforting scent lingered in the air. Something like visiting home after years of being away.

Even the bickering Rana was impressed. The Eevee squeaked, instantly jumping to one of the beds, running around in excited circles. Chris laughed, petting her fondly.

“This is great," he said, looking things over. He set his backpack aside, stretching. Gone was the dull ambiance of a crowded city, replaced by the whisper of distant water and chatter of wild poke'mon.

“What do you think?" he said, turning to Rosa. Her eyes were wide, full of starry splendor. She walked past him, looking out the window at the natural splendor below, tail wiggling. It was hard for Chris to ignore the perkiness of her backside her, rump poking out as she gazed into the horizon.

He cleared his throat, hiding a blush.

“Looooo," she muttered, carrying an enraptured tone. Well, that settled things.

He stepped closer to her, at her side. Despite things, he still felt quite anxious – he knew Rosa but he didn't know her.

“I hope it's all right," he said, catching her attention. “I know it's not the fanciest but, peaceful, right?"

Her eyes came to his, and she wore a smirk. In response, she leaned, placing a little bess on his nose. He blushed again – it was hard not to! Especially because the rest of her was so tangibly close. Chris had a difficult time ignoring her cleavage. . .

“Vee!"

Breaking between them, Rana stamped her paws on the sheets, huffing. Still wasn't so keen on their partnering yet, but, Chris figured it would just need time.

-*-

Evening fell over the Sober Snorlax with gentle ease. Pulsing fireflies grouped near mossy stones and the sky made way for a courtyard of stars. The pathway leading to the reserve was lit by torches, while downstairs was filled with ambiance of hissing skillets.

Though they were a party of two, Clarabelle and Mr. Brinn were excellent cooks. Age did not hinder the older man's gusto as he prepared a course meal for Chris and his girls, while Clarabelle made special treats for the poke'mon. Certainly, Mr. Brinn grunted and swore as one might expect, but it resulted in heavy plates of food delivered, fresh and hot as desired.

Chris was more than happy to oblige the meal with his appetite – a cut of seasoned meat with fresh vegetables. It had been a while since he got a full meal, and the food from Nimbasa was mostly just fast food and ramen. Even Rana, who had spent most of the day pouting and huffing, was beside herself with joy, eating a bowl of seasoned bits and a minty treat. Rosa was a mix – able to enjoy food normally sanctioned for humans and a little something special for her morph biology.

“This is great," Chris said between mouthfuls. “How'd you make this?"

Mr. Brinn grumbled, throwing a towel over his shoulder. Clarabelle laughed.

“Oh, he gets a lot of help around the garden."

Good enough for Chris. He finished his meal, and even wanted seconds. During his eat, Mr. Brinn also placed a drink on the table.

“Some of that and a stroll by the water will do ya' good, kiddo," he said. Chris blinked.

“What is it?"

He grunted. “Liquid courage."

Confused, Chris took the drink and sipped. Blegh! It was an amber liquid, foaming at the rim, and tasted bitter. He realized, then, it was alcohol. Mr. Brinn chuckled.

“I don't think I'm old enough to drink," said Chris. This turned Mr. Brinn's chuckle into a laugh.

“Oh? Says who? You're out on your own, son. That's as old as you can get."

Here, Mr. Brinn set another glass down, this time for Rosa, who – with a playful smirk – took a sip herself.

“You'll thank me later," he said to Chris.

Something about Mr. Brinn was. . . unique. Chris blushed, but didn't know why. When he watched Rosa take another few gulps of beer though, her thighs crossing as she did, then he knew. And, perhaps the old codger was right. He'd been taking care of himself and Rana for years now, he'd proven plenty. Besides, he didn't want to look the silly boy in front of Rosa – this was probably normal for her. Hell, she'd downed half her drink in a few seconds!

Mr. Brinn scuttled off, leaving Chris to tackle his own ichor. It proved difficult, as the beer stung his tongue and burned along the way. But, sip after sip, he got the mug down, and a strange, buzzing tingle filled his head. He felt a bit lighter.

It was a good light, though. And, something about the beer had an indirect effect, like it pulled down the more rigid, refined aspects of his personality. As a Groomer, he was meticulous, perhaps controlling. But the beer, well. Clearly, he wasn't used to it, because his head started to swim, and his cheeks were going red. When he looked at Rosa, something else happened too. He liked her a lot. Probably loved her, even, silly as it seemed. Yet, he was starting to want. The nuance of friendly talk faded against the crashing waves of alcohol, his thoughts wandering from fond reflections to things a little more lewd. He gazed at Rosa, in a way a boy gazes at a girl and hope she might take off her top.

Did Rosa notice this? Maybe she did, because the curvaceous morph stood, still wearing that smirk, a knowing gaze washing over Chris. She went to him, touched his shoulder, nudging him to stand.

“Hmm, I think uh," Chris started, wobbling to his feet, “I think I'm gonna' take a walk with Rosa."

He looked between Clarabelle and Rana. “Can you watch her for a bit?"

Clarabelle offered Chris a curious glance, but nodded. “Of course. I think she's enjoying herself, anyway."

Indeed, Rana was muzzle deep in a bowl of tasty treats, so she didn't really notice the pair leaving. Chris didn't want any trouble, not for what his mind was contemplating.

Rosa lead Chris along by the hand, her hips tossing with an exaggerated sway. They were still covered by her timid, form-hugging shorts, as if to mock Chris with their swagger and bounce. They exited the Sober Snorlax, down a green hill as night fell over them. The gurgle of distant water lured them away, the chirp of crickets set to the song of silent fireflies. Here and there a wile poke'mon shuttled away at their step, but all was peaceful for the most part.

Chris started to smile. “Everything's so pretty out here," he said, walking along with Rosa. “Like you."

Her long ears wiggled, and she offered a chirpish laugh. “Hmhmhm."

Indeed, the two wandered to a small pond, which stretched into view as a silent sanctuary. The water shimmered from flecks of starlight, half-moon reflected in its rippling waters, while in the far horizon, one could make out the shape of mountains. Chris forgot how nice the Unova Region looked at night.

They stopped, overlooking the water. Chris was a mess of boyish desire and slightly-drunk. He took Rosa in both hands, gushing over her.

“I know we've only been together for a few days, but I feel like I've known you my whole life," he said.

Rosa flushed, pushing herself into him, embracing him. “Mmmmm."

Her perky front squished into the flat of his chest, and her muzzle nipped at his nose. Oh. So she had the same idea too.

“I. . . want you in a lot of ways, Rosa," Chris managed, though speech was proving to be difficult. The nuance of language started to evade him, replaced by the wild desire to, well, fuck.

“Mm? Lo?"

She wasn't surprised. After all, Chris was letting his intent be known in more ways than one, specifically via the shape in his pants. Rosa giggled at this, though not in mock reprisal. No, she eagerly took the invitation, a palm sneaking low and gripping his covered loins, cupping the growing stiffness and squeezing with both gentle and harsh squeezes. Chris gasped, then mumbled his approval, glance flicking between her palm and eyes.

“Dammit. Arceus, I want you now, Rosa," he said with a vigor surprising even himself. Mr. Brinn was right about the liquid courage, then.

“Nhmhmhm," snickered Rosa. Oh, she was more than happy to obliging, outright shoving Chris into the soft grass as his back met cool earth. The moment he was there, Rosa was upon him. She sat herself on the twitching flank aching to escape his pants, rolling her soft, perky rump along it in tease. The supple cheeks winced and wiggled with each motion, sending radiating waves of warm through Chris with each stroke of her hips.

Chris' arms lashed out, fingers gripping her hips, taking palmfuls soft fur and squeezing. It was like silk, his digits practically slipping off, and all it did was want him make more. Unfortunately for him, Rosa had no intention of ceasing her teases, wiggling herself against him, even pulling up the short of her shirt – gently hinting at exposed breasts – only to let the fabric hide her torso again.

“H-hey," Chris said, chucking, “No fair. I'm the trainer, right?"

He wasn't, of course. Even as a Groomer he couldn't make that kind of claim – but it was fun, still. And, he had to wonder, just how many trainers did this sort of thing?

Rosa flicked his face with her ear. “Looo."

But, this angel was merciful. Again, she pulled away her small shirt, but this time, tossed it away. From this her shapely, perky front burst free, pleasant little handfuls of bust gently bouncing out for Chris to gaze on. Brrr. It made him shudder, in all the right ways. His other palm snuck over, touching a mound, and it sent hot, unfiltered want straight through his veins, like a liquid drug. It wasn't just because he was grappling with a girl's front, it was the proximity. The knowledge that, in a sense, this was his, or at least Rosa was sharing herself with him. This uncompressing knowledge was thrilling, and he was starting to understand why adults liked doing this so much.

“Agh," grunted Chris, “Help me out of this. . ."

In the meantime, he could only take so much touch and play before his groin started to hurt. A hard, twitching mast needed air and he felt like his loins was harder than a Geodude.

“Mmm?" Rosa tilted her head, as if pretending not to understand. But of course, she didn't torment him for long, lifting herself away so she could begin unfastening the hold of his pants. As she did, his briefs tented with exploding male, cock practically shredding through the fabric.

Chris was hasty to yank himself free, malehood springing into the cool evening air. He was both relieved and excited. Rosa eyed his flank with renewed fascination, prodding the tip with one of her digits. She was intrigued.

But the lusty Lopunny wasn't about to leave his flank idle for long. Indeed, her palm gripped the twitching rod, applying long, steady strokes along its edge, inciting approving moans from Chris. He watched in awe as his companion caressed the warm pole, squeezing and twisting at the tip to incur yet more satisfied groans. This, however, was only the appetizer. With a coo, Rosa leaned down to nuzzle the tip with nose, allowing her tongue to flick free and lap against the head. Chris shivered, both at the sensation and the excitement. All at once the same, seething hungers from his first night with Rosa came flooding back, but far stronger.

“Nng, Rosa. . ." he mumbled out. It was hard to find the words. Once the brain shifted gears, consumed itself with unrelenting wants, speech started to take a backseat.

Rosa interpreted this a bit differently. As in, her warm lips suckled the edge of Chris' tip, nursing it with her maw. Soon, her soft mouth embraced the first inch, mumbling in approval as she applied gentle suckles to the rigid flesh. Chris moaned, both from pleasure and astonishment. To see Rosa's cute visage servicing his loins was nothing short of euphoric. Retired? Yes. Still an exemplary fighter and star? Absolutely. How many, Chris wondered, had viewed Rosa this way? Anyone? Doubtful. It was clear Rosa was his first, and she him. Not counting Candice, at least.

“Keep going, that's good," Chris said, observing as Rosa tossed her head against his cock in rhymtic, practiced swings. Each motion sent waves of electricity through him, growing in intensity, as Rosa kept him locked within the embrace of her maw.

She popped him loose, smirking and laughing, letting her tongue come to the underside of his length and travel upward. She applied a series of gentle kisses too, soaking the rod with intimate smacks, humming as she did.

“Hmhmhm." Her laughs only added to the excitement, as Rosa once again leapt to the top of Chris' crown, engulfing the member into her tight, hot throat. Here, she bounced her head against his loins, a lewd applause emitting from her lips as loud slurps crashed into the night air, mingling with Chris' breaths and seething groans. His hand leapt out, petting her, fondling her ear as he watched his root vanish into her practiced maw, inches tickled by her skilled, twining tongue.

Each stroke caused him to tremble, and he was half-afraid he might hit peak before, well, getting inside Rosa. He loved her oral attentions, but at this point, it felt a waste to reach orgasm outside of her delightful frame. He wanted her in all ways, not just through the sexual escapades she granted.

Perhaps her instinct allowed her to understand this, or maybe Chris was just that easy to read. Regardless, Rosa finished lapping at his flank, raising from his frame slowly. As she did, she pulled away at his pants, with his help, leaving him exposed to the air. She too mimicked this action, wiggling out of her short pants, curvy hips exposed to the night. Moonlight caught her supple fur and bathed it in enticing light, allowing Chris to drink her lovely form.

“Looo. . ."

She seemed to call for him, shifting. Rosa was not content, it appeared, to “do the deed" right on the grass, at least not yet. Rather, she lifted and sauntered to a nearby tree, leaning on it in coaxing fashion. Here, she pushed out her hips, showing off her perky rump, gently swaying it in the air to further excite Chris. He was more than happy to watch as her cleft teased its way through her cheeks, outer lips glistening with arousal. Her head turned back to him, still wearing the all-familiar smirk, and Chris knew what she wanted.

He stood, bare to the night, looking around. What if someone saw them? What if a wandering guest heard them? Well. . . who cared, at this point. The Sober Snorlax was secluded enough, and he wasn't afraid, not anymore. So long as Rosa was with him, Chris had the courage for anything.

So, he wandered to her, his hands slipping to her thighs, once again applying squeezes and caresses as he greedily felt her soft fur.

“Nn, I want you," he managed to say, cock twitching at the prospect of her hot tunnel. He gripped her rump, spreading it as wide as he could, eyeing the pink mound.

“Loo!" yipped Rosa, shoving herself into his grip. She seemed to have the same idea.

Trembling and twitching, Chris took the hint and slowly pushed himself forward, root's end spreading the awaiting cunny as it enveloped him with searing, sticky heat. Again, he was taken aback at the sheer heat, reminded how hot a body could be. But it was good burn, one you wanted more of. Like pushing your arm into a fire, except you didn't get hurt.

Eventually, he slipped himself within her walls, entirely hilting himself, almost buckling from the raw sensation. It was hard not to lose control right now, taxed by desire and Rosa's suckling nether lips. In the meantime, she gasped in response, tunnel trembling as its key found the lock, nuzzling her sensitive inner tunnel.

“Fuck!" hissed Chris, leaning over her. His chest came to her back, while her lithe arm snaked around his neck and held him close. He managed to kiss her, nip at her neck with possessive want, gripping her waist as his hips starting to grind in steady, piston fashion.

Every buck made was returned with Rosa, her strong hips clashing against Chris in hasty fashion. It almost knocked hm over! He had forgotten how powerful she really was; a miracle he hadn't fallen over already. But said strength had its advantage. Rosa clamped him down, hot, sodden lips gripping the human tight and milking his flank for all it had, meeting his thrusts with striking pounces. Her ample cheeks smacked against his loins, presex and nectar dripping from their coupling, a sloppy mess of intercourse pooling beneath them.

“Looooo…"

Chris voice was muffled, face buried in her shoulder as he began a steady flow of harsh thrusts. He was still quite new to all this, but the concept was easy to grasp. A throw of the hips, each toss a little bit harder, causing higher bouts of pleasurable sensations. Every one of Rosa's girlish moans sent him further into a lusty chaos, overwhelmed with not just the sensation but the sound. To know he was causing those moans, to know they were specifically for him. . . it was enough to drive anyone crazy!

Wet, so wet. That too he didn't expect but wanted much more. His cock was slippery with their sex, sticky and warm, binding them together, and part of him wanted to drain every bit of himself into Rosa. He started to get it now, understand why images on the Poke'Net were sometimes so. . . visceral. But in the throws of temptation and unrelenting lust, the body wanted all sorts of things.

Rosa continued to push back with her marvelous hips, an aggression Chris wasn't expecting. So much so she bounced him onto his back with a dismal thud, straddling him as she continued to toss herself upon his seething length. Chris didn't mind – his gaze was treated to the sight of a Lopunny hopping on his root, her visage blushing and form sweaty.

“Ahnn!"

Her cries were enough to send Chris into overdrive, and he couldn't hold himself back any longer. His loins erupted with a pillar of intense sensations, issue bursting from the tip and flooding Rosa's inner walls, bucking into her as he briefly lost control. She cried out, accepting the siege of issue as it poured deep in her honeypot, clenching on his rod as she accepted every drop of Chris' seed.

“Unnfgod," Chris mumbled, holding onto the lithe Lopunny as his cock squirmed within her. The release was overwhelming, the afterglow more-so, and yet he couldn't stop humping, even as the intense sensations were too much! He felt Rosa reach climax too, her wet folds drooling with sex as she peaked with him, a sloppy mess of sticky “couple" gluing them together.

Chris felt his heart race, chest throbbing as he sipped in gulps of air. That too was something he didn't expect – just how much persistence and energy this took. Though, he figured, there was plenty of time to get better at this.

As their breathing slowed, Rosa fell into him, his softening girth still twitching inside her. His arm embraced her, perky breasts resting on them as he kissed her neck again, an afterglow both emotional and physical overtaking him.

“Rosa," he managed, “I love you so much."

Maybe it was just the adrenalin talking, or some newly accessed instinct now coming to fruition. But it was true or felt it at least. Nothing more raw and real had ever overtaken him – not since his affection and caring for Rana. But this was a different sort of love, a romantic and binding one, the kind of intoxicating desire that bound two lovers together for the rest of their lives. Potent – stronger than any drug or booze or tangible sensation.

Eventually, Rosa did pull free from Chris, rivers of white escaping her sodden cleft. She turned around to hold him, returning his kisses, nuzzling into his neck. The evening settled over them with chirps and rippling water, and Chris was consumed with thought: Mr. Brinn was right about the 'liquid courage.'

Well, it didn't take long for them to desire each other again. This time, Rosa wanted more.

-*-

It was quiet when they returned. Most of the lights in the Sober Snorlax were off, save for the essentials. Chris' room was more the same, and when the duo entered, he spied Rana curled into a little pile, snoozing on one of the extra beds. Clarabelle must've taken care of her, and for that he was grateful. After a quick wash, he and Rosa curled into the first bed, and slept together in earnest for the first time. Rosa even curled her long, pink tipped ears around them, creating a lover's cocoon.

Next morning, he did his best to act “normal." His eyes snapped open to the sound of muffled voices and singing birds, a timid ray of sunshine breaking through the room's window. At first, he thought the previous night's happening were some wishful dream, but the sensation of Rosa's quiet touch reminded him of his blissful new reality.

Carefully, he rose from bed, making sure the shiny Lopunny was still covered. He checked on Rana too, who hadn't noticed his return, but snored peacefully all the same. He pet her head, her ears wiggling at his touch. He hoped he could work out the friction between she and Rosa.

In the meantime, he decided to take a quick walk by himself. His night with Rosa only reaffirmed his commitment to her, along with the road ahead. They could stay at the Inn for a few more days, a week tops, but beyond that, he had to start planning. Would they continue their journey? Most likely. But where? Pursuing his career as a Groomer was – at least for now – not an option. People would recognize Rosa fast and Chris could only imagine the ensuing controversies because of that.

As he came downstairs, scent of eggs and skilled fried tomatoes hit him. In the diner, one figure sat by themselves, sipping coffee and thumbing through their Smart-Dex. He wore a long coat and sunglasses, but his expression was disinterested, not even bothering to glance at Chris as he approached.

It was also not Clarabelle prepping the food. Amidst hissing pans were the grumbles of Mr. Brinn, his face twisted and disgruntled. He shot Chris a glance, gesturing for him.

“Boy," he said. Chris blinked.

“Er, y-yes?"

Mr. Brinn flicked off the oven and turned around, tossing towel over shoulder. He leaned on the counter, giving Chris a once over, one eye bulging in scrutiny.

“Hmm. Thought so."

Chris remained confused. “Uh, sorry?"

Now a chuckle from the old gent. “People think they're so clever these days. Like we don't know what's going on out there. My Arceus, do they think we're stunted?"

He washed his hands and tossed a point to the other sitting gent. “You. I'm leaving. Don't steal anything."

Now, his point came to Chris. “You. Walk with me. I'm tired and feel like gabbing with someone other than a bubbly little girl."

Chris hesitated – he rather wanted to get some air himself. But, not like he could deny Mr. Brinn now. And there was something else about him, some other kernel of knowledge he possessed which enticed Chris – just a bit. Like he knew something.

Oh god, thought Chris. He didn't figure me out, did he?

The stranger, preoccupied in their reading, looked up with a puzzled expression as the two left. As for Mr. Brinn, he led Chris along a small path on the side of the Inn, leading into more forested parts, scuffling along and grumbling. Chris wasn't sure what to say – or if he even should say anything, so he remained silent. Only when Mr. Brinn paused to wipe his brow did he break the quiet.

“How long ya' know that one?" he said. There was a small bench he sat on, huffing, crossing arms.

Again, confusion. “I don't know what you mean," said Chris. “Who?"

A dry chuckle. “The tall one. The rabbit one. Oh what is, the names those dex-makers come up with. . ."

Chris' heart froze. “The. . . Lopunny?"

Mr. Brinn clapped his hands. “Lopunny, that's it. Bloody nobs we kept it simple in my time. That one, yes. How long with her?"

Chris didn't answer yet. It was hardly the man's business, but more importantly, he didn't want to reveal anything.

The old man sensed the hesitation. “Well, go on with it then. What? I might be an old crank but I'm not judging. I'm just curious."

He leaned. “Don't be coy with me, sonny. I know what's going in. Pretty easy to see – it always is. You lot think you're clever? Hoho, no, not at all. I see it all the time."

It was Chris' turn to cross his arms.

“What exactly do you think is going on?"

Mr. Brinn shook his head. “You must think I'm dense, sonny boy. Chris was it? Chris. Please. You can't fool me. I was your age too. Then I wasn't – got older, and then. . . well, let's just say the ladies got a whole lot nicer looking."

Chris remained silent. The man knew everything. Dammit. He just wouldn't say it.

“I'm. . ."

He laughed. “Getting familiar with her? Yeah, I know. Been with her long? They're really loyal. Hope you treat her right."

Another pregnant pause. The wind picked up and rustled tree branches, a quiet melancholy settling over Chris. He thought he was cautious, but all it took was some cranky old codger to figure things out.

“Please don't tell anyone," he said.

Mr. Brinn gave an expression like he'd been slapped with a moldy sponge.

“The hell you on about, boy? It's your business. But I'm old, so I want to be humored."

He rubbed his chin. “Makes me wonder why you're all shy about it. Having reservations? Maybe you think it's 'wrong?' Pah. Went through that discourse. Had those discussions. Arguments of consent, back in my younger days. Outright punched a man because of it. . ."

Chris rubbed his head. “Well, no, it's not that exactly."

“Good. Last thing you need is to second guess yourself. The posh and the rich like to say it's immoral. The 'relationships' we have with morphs, but they're just pearl clutchers. Bah."

Chris looked away to nothing in particular. “Look, I'm still not clear on this. You think I'm in a relationship with my Lopunny?"

“I know you are. Not that I mind. I encourage it. Just wondered. You still didn't answer me, you know."

Damn. Chris didn't know what to think now. Could he trust this man? He liked to talk, after all. What was to stop him from spouting a rumor to some stranger later? Well, maybe it didn't matter, by that time Chris would be long gone.

“Not long," conceded Chris. He decided not to give specifics. Mr. Brinn nodded.

“So, it's the blooming story of two young lovers. Eugh. Pretty soon you'll be arguing about the best choice for dinner or whether she can fit in a dress or yelling at you to take your damn meds. Still can't get Nirna off my ass about it."

Chris perked. “Nirna?"

Mr. Brinn shot him a glance but ignored him.

“Ah, kid. . ." he said with a long, tired sigh.

“Think carefully about where you go, now. It's different. Despite all the 'positivity' about poke'mon, you'd be damn surprised how judgmental folk still are. A lot of what we know is all clogged up by rituals and expectations. You're either A, or B. Trainer or master or gym leader. Groomer. Relationships? Not so much."

Chris blinked, studying Mr. Brinn.

“Some places you can't just hold hands or hug or any of that touchy stuff. People give you bad looks. Think you're up to something. Other places? It's fine, from what I hear. But not everywhere. It's why I love it out in the rough. Got some damn privacy."

“I know," Chris said, voice low. “I expect it to be hard."

“Expect it to be harder."

Mr. Brinn smiled now, so much he looked a totally different person. “But damn if it ain't worth it."

“My Nirna's been haulin' my worthless keester around for almost fifteen years now. Damn woman won't let me go to sleep without shoving every pill I've got in the cabinet down my throat. Makes me nap, helps me with the garden. What a pain in the fuckin' foot."

He chuckled, exuding warmth. “I love her to death."

“Who is she?" asked Chris again.

Mr. Brinn grumbled, gesturing to Chris. “Help me up."

Chris did, taking Mr. Brinn's arm as he creaked to his feet, rubbing his back. “Ol' girl probably in the garden. Walk with me."

Again, things were quiet as Chris helped the old fellow along, until they came to a wide space blooming with various Berries, vegetables, and fruits. At first it appeared as any normal garden, save there was one person in attendance. As they approached, Chris spied a silhouette attending to one of the larger bushes, realizing it wasn't a figure, it was a poke'mon. More specifically, a morph.

At their approach her broad ears flicked, and she turned, pale blue frame caught in the light. Her armored body bore wide spots and scars from age and previous struggles, though she was staggering in size. She looked between the two, and as they came closer, Chris discovered it was a Nidoqueen. She set down her basket full of picked fruit, coming to the pair, looking at Mr. Brinn with concern.

He rolled his eyes at her. “My old lady," he said to Chris. “Worse than a thorn in my big ugly toe."

“Rrrrg," she responded, frowning. Chris smiled.

“Oh, h-hello." He was having a hard time believing the two were an item.

“Nirna," said Mr. Brinn with a gesture. “Chris. Go on, make nice."

Nirna dawned a smile and leaned (she had two, she towered over them both) – patting Chris on the head. He flushed, greeting again, and managed to not stare at her chest too long. It was. . . big. Guess he couldn't blame the old codger.

“This one walked in with a fine young lady," continued Mr. Brinn. “Figure I'd teach him how to treat a girl nice."

“Rrr?" Nirna gave Chris a curious glance.

This procured a discussion Chris didn't expect. Mr. Brinn (after sitting with a loud, bone-cracking pop) started to talk about how the two originally met near a decade ago, and how the landscape was entirely different. Somewhere in the Kanto region, he said, back before he planned to retire to Unova.

“I was a botanical engineer for Berries," he would say. “Nirna was one of the assistants."

From there, of course, things only got more intimate. A Nidoqueen already possessed the stature similar to a human, but in anthropoid shape it was fascinating. Mr. Brinn likened her to a unique fruit, an incredible development in the morphology and evolution of poke'mon. From there, well, the rest was history. His relationship lead to a conflict of interest with his work, she had to leave with her, somewhere where the taboo wasn't judged as harshly.

Chris was listening now. He had no idea when he might meet another person with the same relationship as him, if ever. His mind swam with questions and, despite Mr. Brinn's cranky demeanor, he started to feel comfortable around him.

In the end, he could think of only one thing:

“How can I make this work?" asked Chris.

Mr. Brinn laughed. “You can't. And you can."

“. . . what?"

A shrug. “Be honest with her. Be who you are. And then she'll know if that's who she wants to be with."

Well, it wasn't as clear as answer as Chris hoped. But, suppose matters like these weren't clear to begin with. He was right though. Candice had remarked on Chris' “honest" nature, whatever that meant. Perhaps that his intentions were pure? Before Rosa, he only cared about the wellbeing and success of his Eevee. Now things were a little different.

“Okay," Chris nodded. “I'll try."

Nirna purred with approval while Mr. Brinn rubbed his chin. “Good."

“Oh, and use the goddamn bed next time, don't mess up my grass."

-*-

Chris spent the remainder of the day trying to inject some life into the relationship between Rana and Rosa, though it proved quite challenging. Often times Rana would outright jump into Chris' lap, stamp her paws, and give Rosa a stern glance. The Lopunny didn't mind, though. Here and there she would gently poke at Rana's ears, much to the Eevee's miniature fury (and Chris' amusement). But it was clear Rana still wasn't trustworthy of Rosa – and perhaps a kernel of jealous was blooming too.

In time, though. He was optimistic. Rana just needed a reason to trust Rosa, more so than Chris' desires.

Those desires weren't going anywhere, either. As evening approach, once again the night was filled with the chirping sound of insects. The strange from before – the Inn's only other visitor – was long gone, while Clarabelle had taken off for the day. Mr. Brinn had come to make dinner, and even invited Nirna along, who delighted at the sight of Rana and Rosa. But as Mr. Brinn passed along more ''liquid courage," heat was forming in Chris chest. He'd look at Rosa a bit more fondly, eye her bust just a few seconds longer, until the Lopunny blushed, getting the point.

“Adorable little thing," Mr. Brinn would say, petting Rana. The Eevee squeaked at the attention. A perfect distraction.

Maybe Mr. Brinn knew this, allowing Chris and Rosa to make a quiet retreat upstairs. Chris wasn't quite ready to 'open up' to Rana about things just yet. He was, however, ready to 'open' Rosa.

The Lopunny lead him along this time, holding his hand as she pranced up the stairs. Her smile was warm and inviting, something Chris hoped to see every day for the rest of his life. They entered their room afterward, locking the door, closing away the world. Perfect.

“Oh, Rosa. . ." Chris started. He didn't know what to say, really. He wasn't so good with words, not like Mr. Brinn.

“I love you, ya know?"

Well, that would do. Rosa embraced him, holding him tight, pressing in for a kiss. Their lips met again, exploring the other with twisting tongues, voracious smacks emerging from their coupling. Chris found himself dizzy, head swirling as he held Rosa close, gracing her form with dainty touches. She mumbled with approval, a hot breath escaping her with their every touch, a young lover's song.

But Rosa wasn't all romance and passion. As she broke their kiss, her expression tugged with a wanting grin, cheeks red. With impressive strength, she took Chris by the arms and yanked him to their surplus sized bed, outright tossing him into the covers. With an excited thud she was on him, form over his, looking at him with renewed vigor.

“Uhh. . ."

She put a finger to his lips. No words were needed – at least not the classy kind. Instead, she nipped at him again, caressing his form while stripping herself free like before, nake frame exposed to the dull room light. Chittering, she shifted herself, her rear coming into Chris' view while her lips were at his loins, fingers unbuttoning his pants. He blinked, uncertain, eyeing her still hidden pussy behind generous walls of buttocks, hands reaching over to stroke and squeeze at her.

Like their time in the grass, she was quick to embrace his tip into her mouth much to his delight. But this time, Chris could return the favor. As he groaned in approval, he spread her rear to expose her wanting cleft, pink inner lips teasing him with promise. Instinct drove him on, mixed with fumbling exploration, mouth pressing to hers. He wasn't an expert – he could only assume what to do based on things he'd seen on Poke'Hub – and so dipped his tongue into her nectar-bearing tunnel, tasting and massaging. Rosa mumbled, pushing herself into his attentions, grinding herself against him.

“Mmnnlop!" she yipped, cheeks puffed with Chris' member. Well, it sounded promising! So he continued, this time with greater haste. Her flavor was intriguing, salty and sweet, presex dancing on his tongue, and this only drove him on, like a liquor.

“Nnf, Rosa," he muttered, pressing himself into her cheeks, like he was sick with fever. Save the fever was lust and he wanted more of it.

This proceeded for spell, the young forms dancing together in a rhythm of touches and licks. Chris found sensitive spots, sometimes squeezing hard into Rosa's thick haunches, sometimes roving over them with greedy palms. He'd drive his tongue into her, lapping at her nub, receiving an ecstatic tremble from his partner, leading him to realize it was a sensitive zone. She, too, responded in kind with servile suckles, mashing her head, bouncing herself on his cock, pushing every bit of his malehood into his throat. It was hard to focus, and at moments he just wanted to watch, but the proximity of her pussy was too alluring to ignore.

This, however, was a matter of foreplay to Rosa. After a pause, she broke her oral embrace from Chris' crown, a thin trail of saliva bridging the gap, shifting herself. Excitedly, she swung around to face the Groomer, his face aflush with desire, eyes misty as he watched her pull away the rest of his attire. Helping her, he too was bare to the room, holding Rosa close as her silky fur tantalizing his skin with a comforting sensation.

A moment passed where this remained, the two caught in another row of kisses. Rosa rubbed herself against Chris' twitching loins, her sodden snatch dripping against his inches, begging him to enter. But, as with any pairing, youthful hungers took over again.

Rosa raised herself, glaring down at Chris with eyes ravaged with hunger. While she couldn't say it, it was clear her expression was “I'm going to fuck the life out of you." For Chris, there was a frightening thrill to it, and he wondered if the bed could withstand such a powerful assault!

She held him at the shoulders, lifting her waist as the suckling tunnel teased against Chris' crown. He groaned, gripping her waist for dear life as his sensitive malehood tingled in waves of heightening intensity. It was agonizing to watch Rosa wait, stroke against him without letting him inside, even though a handful of seconds passed.

“Urg, Rosa, c'mon," he pleaded, aching for his lover's touch. She snickered but did not deny him for long.

Finally, her hips sank with one fluid motion, throttling Chris' rod in a sea of hot, silky wetness. He gasped, trembling inside her, instinctively trying to thrust into the soaked cunny, overwhelmed with heat. Rosa too moaned in unison, joyous to have the fitted key back in her lock, a slow and steady bounce jostling her rear.

“Agh! Fuck!"

Chris wasn't much for swearing, but in this instance, he had to. What else could he say? The ever-desired Rosa was on top of him, a small-town Groomer. It was intoxicating! And it helped that it felt amazing, too.

At once, Rosa started an assault of hasty hops. Her powerful thighs outright choked Chris inside her, milking his young malehood for all it possessed, simultaneously rocking her plump hips in smooth, falling motions. Every smack of her hips shook the bed and rocked the walls, causing a rumble around them, while her thick, generous cheeks wiggled in reciprocation, as though bouncing with pleasant applause. This created a lewd chorus, a sinful orchestra of two young, horny lovers, the room drowned in with the ambiance of their rough fucking. It's a good thing the other visitor wasn't here – he'd probably hear everything by now!

Each collapse of loins created a friction of grunts, while Chris continued to explore Rosa's incredible frame. His fingers clamped and rubbed at her sides, tracing over to her busty front, jostling her heaving bosom in hands as her nip tickled the folds of his palm. Rosa even pushed herself into his grasp, encouraging his greedy hold, while Chris could only watch in splendor as his counterpart wiggled and jostled atop him.

“Aghn, Rosa. . ." he managed. “Loveyousomuch!"

Again, not good with words. But, if there was one thought his addled mind could currently conjure, it was Mr. Brinn's words: be honest. And that was as honest as he could get.

Rosa returned the phrase, in her own way.

“Lopunny!" she yelped, form glistening with sweat and arousal. That was enough for Chris, holding fast, his loins starting to boil over.

Instinct overtaking him, his hips bucked in quick, upward thrusts, meeting Rosa's falling loins. Again, an explosion of loud, sloppy smacks emitted from their coupling, a damp stain of sex pooling around them. Rosa's piston tosses grew in aggression as well, each fall of thighs causing the bed to whine in resistance.

That was certainly enough for the young Groomer. Drowning in smoldering desire, his pole surged with radiating waves of pleasure, each damp stroke of choking nether lips causing an explosion of sensations. His head rolled back, and his groin surged with orgasm, a peak burst from tip as hot rivers of white left him, flooding into Rosa's drowning cunny. He groaned, louder than he had ever before, grabbing onto Rosa as he helplessly drained himself into her, blissful agony overtaking him as Rosa rode through his orgasm.

“Nyesss. . ." he hissed, eyelid shut as he shook and twitched. Rosa trembled too, her quaky pussy exploding with peak, her digits slipping down to nuzzle her clitoral nub. Her frame arched, perky breasts wiggling into the air, bounces transitioning to short, jerking hops, coaxing out every bit of seed Chris had to offer.

For a pregnant moment, the two froze, their frames shaking as the crescendo of their bodies reached its maximum. Then the reprieve, drinking in quick breaths, holding close as their arms interlocked again, Rosa collapsing into Chris' hold. Now the afterglow, a strange buzz of warmth washing over Chris, mixed with the chemical concoction of proximity. For, post-coitus, the body yearns for another, and Chris had one, rarer than all the diamonds in the world.

She chittered, her way of saying “I love you" in the Lopunny way. Chris didn't understand, and yet, he did. That was the bond between trainer and morph, special in its own way. He repeated this, hugging her close, her long ears shielding them once again.

For a while it was quiet again save for the muffled chirp of outdoor crickets. Chris relished the silence, his thoughts clear. The future was uncertain, as was his relationship with Rosa. Where they would go he wasn't sure – or how'd they make it work. Could he really commit to a lifetime with her? Was he ready? And then Mr. Brinn's advice of honesty returned, and so, he answered himself, honestly:

Yes.

“Loooo. . ."

His contemplations were broken by Rosa. He glanced to her, only to discover her expression returned to that same, devious grin. Oh Arceus, she wanted more.

Chris gave a nervous chuckle. “Really?"

Well, not like he was going to deny her. She smirked, nodding, hand bolting to his loins once again, gripping the sticky inches, stroking him back to hardness. He shivered, taking a breath. She was a champion and expected champion performance, after all.

-*-

The rest of the night was filled with the couple “igniting" their passion, again and again. Rosa continued to bounce herself on Chris' resilient rod. They'd shift, Chris taking her from behind, bucking himself into her welcoming snatch as she gripped the bed in want. By the time they finished, they were an exhausted pile of sex, damp and hot. They hardly had the strength to shower off before returning to bed, sleeping in a fresh set of dry sheets.

Chris didn't even remember falling asleep, much like before. Rather, the new morning washed over him, along with the slumberous hold of Rosa. She was tucked under his chin, peaceful breaths escaping her, and for a while he remained that way. It was until sometime later he realized he didn't know where Rana was. He carefully proceeded to “escape" his lover's bind, throwing on some fresh clothes as he went to find his Eevee.

Again, he returned downstairs to the sounds of freshly cooked food. Clarabelle was back, sitting at one of the tables with Rana, smiling and petting the Eevee's ears. Relief washed over Chris, as he saw Rana muzzle deep in a bowl of food, gleefully munching away.

“Oh, Chris!" said Clarabelle. “Good morning!"

He waved to her, offering a hello. At his approach, Rana's head jolted, her mouth covered with crumbs.

“Vee!" she squeaked, running around in a jittery circle. Chris smiled, petting her, Rana jumping into his arms.

“Hey! There you are. Sleep well?"

Rana nipped at him, then jumped out of his arms. Then proceed to jump back in his arms, tail wiggling.

“Whoa," said Chris. “Someone's excited!"

Clarabelle laughed. “Oh, it's probably the food! We just picked some fresh Berries yesterday and I made my special mixed meal. Does wonders for the energy."

Chris chuckled. “I can tell."

Again, Chris pat Rana on the head, who proceeded to dive back into her eats.

“I'll let her finish up," he said. “Actually, uh, is Mr. Brinn around?"

Clarabelle was giggling, watching Rana. “Heh. Hm? Oh! Yes. He's back in the garden. With Nirna, I think. He told me you met. Know where it is?"

Chris nodded. He thanked Clarabelle, then hustled off to the back part of the Sober Snorlax, feeling rejuvenated. He wasn't quite sure what he wanted to say, but the old man's advice had worked so far. Just as well, he couldn't stay at the Inn forever. A couple more days at most, but soon it would be time to move on, and Chris had to know the path ahead. Rosa and Rana were relying on him.

As he moved along, something caught his attention. Sounds – familiar both. As he continued to walk, he realized it was Mr. Brinn and Nirna, though. . . different. He went down the cobbled path, realization coming over him. These weren't sounds of a cranky fellow and dismissive Nidoqueen. It was something else. There were mutters. Then womanly giggles. The mischievous kind. At first, Chris didn't believe it. Though, further along, he spied them at the bench, in a situation rather compromising. He dashed behind a tree, cheeks flushing.

Oh, it was Mr. Brinn all right, save the ol coot was smiling ear to ear. His hands were outright mashed into Nirna's chest, squeezing and fondling her oversized bust. Chris' face went beet red, eyes adjusting. In the name of Arceus! Nirna's bosom was bigger than the fellow's head! Yet it only encouraged him, as he continued to lean into her, mumbling something, creating another series of blushes and chirps, his naughty digits pinching and twisting at her sensitive teats.

“Getting' bigger on me ol' girl," Chris heard him say. More squeezes, causing Nirna to gasp. “Gonna' have fun tonight, aren't we?"

Holy shit, thought Chris. He had to hold his mouth, stifling a laugh. That dirty old man!

He peeked again, NIrna standing, adjusting herself. She turned, only to receive a fierce slap to her ass. Armored morph she was, her buttocks were still thick and soft, and goodness did she jiggle. Nirna laughed, and Mr. Brinn howled with amusement.

“All right, go on with it then. I'll come help in a minute."

She nudged him in the forehead, but soon pranced away into the folds of the garden, hips swaying in exaggerated fashion. Mr. Brinn was all too happy to watch, and Chris had to take a moment to “recover." Well, suppose if he ever need a tip on certain things, this was the man to ask.

After a while, Chris slowly made his way towards Mr. Brinn, attempting to look casual. Brinn didn't move at his approach, just coughed his arms, grunting.

“You know, when I want to talk with people I let them know," he grumbled, face twisting with a frown. Chris only chuckled. He wasn't sure if Mr. Brinn knew that Chris saw him, but it was humorous all the same.

“Must be pretty quiet for you then," said Chris, smirking. He didn't know why, but today he was feeling brave, like his spine was made of iron.

Brinn chortled. “Don't get snippy."

“I'm learning from the best," said Chris.

Now Mr. Brinn looked to the Groomer, brow raised.

“You get laid again, kiddo?"

Chris looked away, and Mr. Brinn laughed. “Well, two for two ain't bad. You used the damn beds, right? I got you the room for a reason."

Chris rubbed his head. He wasn't sure how he felt sharing something so personal. But at the same time, what was the use in hiding it now? Mr. Brinn clearly knew.

“Yeah," he said. “Uh, thanks."

Mr. Brinn waved a hand. “I was your age too and I realized a lot of room was helpful, even before Nirna. Had a thing for girls that were wide, you understand? First time I was with a Blaziken a few years my senior, who liked cake a bit too much, and had extra. Get it?"

Chris didn't want to imagine the old fellow getting frisky, but he nodded anyway.

“Haha, kids. Well, I don't figure you waddled over to hear me talk about my saggy balls. What is it?"

Chris didn't respond at once, instead, took a seat next to Mr. Brinn. He felt good, but the anxiety of the unknown future was settling over him.

“I don't know where to go from here," he said. “Or how to keep a low profile."

Chris sighed. “I didn't say it before but. . . you know Rosa, she's not just a random Lopunny. And. . . I don't mean the shiny bit either. She can't be recognized."

Mr. Brinn looked at him. “Huh."

“I don't know who to ask, and you're the only one I can trust, I guess."

Now the old man laughed. “Hah! Well didn't you luck out. Poor bastard."

Chris managed a smile. The old man sighed.

“Well, I understand. I couldn't be open with Nirna for years. Frankly, still can't. Came out here for that reason."

He rubbed his chin. “For starters though. . . don't get hitched with a morph with an ass that can crack your pelvis. Arceus, can barely get the girl through doors these days."

Mr. Brinn paused, like he was imagining it. Then:

“I don't know what you're plannin', kiddo. I saw your Eevee, and the bow. Wager you're a Groomer, which is the worst thing to be if you want to keep eyes off. I say? Stick to the trails, near the coast. You can get all lovey-dovey with your girl without staring eyes. Cause once you get into a city, it's hands off, lest ya' be judged."

Chris nodded.

“Hmm. I'll write a name down before ya' leave, too. There's a researcher I know. He's a bit off, about my age, exclusively studies the relationship between humans and morphs. Maybe too much. My god the eggs. . ."

He chuckled. “But he's a smart man."

Chris could only wonder at the type of scientist dealing solely with morphs.

“Any way I can make Rana and Rosa get along?"

Mr. Brinn leaned, back cracking. “Eh? Trust. They gotta' believe in each other. Poke'mon are hard wired to protect their trainer. If they sense danger, they get mad."

Another nod. “Okay."

Chris started to chuckle. “Ah, man. Dammit. Mr. Brinn, I think I'm in love."

Mr. Brinn returned this with his own laugh, and for once, his tone was kind and genuine. “Good."

“Nurture it like this garden, son," he continued with a gesture. In the distance, Nirna was picking at the bushes, filling a massive basket with large Berries.

“You'll be amazed at what you can grow."

A while later, Chris returned to the Inn, where Rosa was seated. Rana was there too, staring at the Lopunny, but this time with less concern in her eyes. When he came back, they both looked at him, smiling. Rosa hopped from her seat, rushing to Chris, giving him a deep, loving kiss. He returned it too, giving his own smile and holding her hands as they returned to the table, together.

This team, at least, Rana didn't look bothered.