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Description
Catching Up

The two small creatures crept closer, their surroundings towering them in height. The larger one, with its red, fluffy fur, looked around and saw that no one else was up. The smaller one’s ears perked up to pick up any sound that would interrupt their hunting and, when the creature was satisfied, nodded to its partner. The red furred Pokémon got ready to pounce, a smirk forming on its vulpine lips.
-One... Two... Three! the smaller chanted.
At the same time, both Pokémon jumped on the bed and ran around, waking up both of their parents in panic.
-Mommy! Daddy! Akarui cried out, giggling.
-Momma! Dadda! the larger Pokémon laughed.
-Akarui!! Yaku!! C’mon, kids, stop! Spark despaired, trying to calm both down.
They sat down, giggling to themselves. Spark looked at them with his tired eyes and messed up fur, having just woken up. The larger Pokémon, Yaku, was cuddling and hugging Akarui, her older brother. With her lager size, she accidently fell on top of him, squishing him under her belly. Her two Vulpix tails wagged, showing her early age.
-Sissy! Akarui wriggled. Get off!
She ignored his cry for help and hugged him more, smiling widely. Blaze lifted her head from the pillow and laughed softly before picking Yaku up, freeing her son in the process. She hugged Yaku and tickled her, making her flail and giggle.
-Momma! the little girl giggled. Tickwes!
-I sure hope so! the Ninetales laughed.
Akarui silently crawled, trying to get out of the room before Spark caught him. He let out a small “eep” as he was dragged back by his father.
-What did Daddy say about waking him up this early in the morning? the older Jolteon asked, smiling a little.
-Uuh... I dunno... his son said, looking away.
-You know very well, Mister, Spark chuckled before tickling Akarui, making him laugh loudly. Now you’re going to tickle prison!
-No!! the small Jolteon giggled, wiggling happily.
The two parents continued for some time before letting their two children go play elsewhere. They looked at each other and laughed at their ridiculous look of half asleep adults before they nuzzled softly, smiling. “I couldn’t be happier.” Spark told himself. “I have the mate of my dreams, two great kids, an amazing family... And no danger seems to watch us. Maybe we finally have some luck... I love this peace. ”
-C’mon, let’s get breakfast! Blaze smiled, her tails wagging softly.
-Coming! the older Jolteon replied, licking her nose as they went downstairs.

The smell of cooking pancakes slowly filled the house, every occupant waking up and being entranced by it. The many children all sat at the table, chanting happily as Shadow settled plates in front of them, smiling.
-Bon appétit! he said as they all dug in.
The Umbreon looked at them and smiled. Pyro was sitting with his daughter and his new, twin sons, eating as eagerly as them.
-It’s so good! the first one said.
-Super good! the second one added.
-Okashi and Omashi seem to like breakfast, Celia giggled as she sat between Pyro and Celest. And congratulations again on your evolution, sweetheart! she smiled as she kissed Celest’s now pink forehead.
-Thank you, Mommy! the newly evolved Sylveon chirped.
Shadow giggled at the young girl’s contagious happiness. The moonlight Pokémon looked to his left, watching Akarui, Hikari and Ryko all eat together. While Akarui was the second smallest of the three, he also acted oldest for his age, able to easily speak complete sentences, although that didn’t stop him from being just like Spark when he was a child. He was clumsy, even with his divine powers, enjoyed teasing everyone and he loved to have fun. But most of all, he loved to fly. He had almost given his father a heart attack when Spark had seen him flying, two wings made of rainbow flames flapping on his back.
-Akarui, don’t eat so fast! Blaze said. You’ll...
-I feel weird... Akarui whimpered, holding his belly.
-He’ll be fine, just give him some time to digest all that, Shadow told Blaze.
She smiled and thanked him before turning back to her son, warning him about eating too fast. At the same time, Spark was feeding Yaku some more appropriate food for her age, despite her whimpers of protest.
-Want Aka food.
-Sweetie, that’s not good for you, Spark sighed. I told you already...
-Want Aka food.
-Nuhuh, you’re eating healthy to be a big, strong, baby girl!
-I no baby!
Spark resisted his daughter’s begging eyes as much as he could, since he knew his weaknesses. Her large, purple eyes were the same as his, full of mischief and happiness. Yaku knew of her advantage too and lowered her head, looking up at Spark with absolutely adorable eyes. Spark bit his lips, looking torn between his responsibilities as a parent and his need to satisfy his daughter’s cravings.
-Three, two, one... Blaze counted down before Spark gave a small piece of pancake.
The Vulpix ate the small piece, her eyes widening and demanding more. Spark looked up at Blaze, silently crying out for help. The fox Pokémon giggled and whispered “You got yourself in this” before going back to her own pancakes.
-Yaku... Spark despaired.
-Mowe, pwease! she asked with her cutest sing-song voice.
“That little Daddy’s girl... ” Spark sighed internally, giving her another piece. “She’s gonna be the death of me... ”
Shadow smiled before turning to look at his mate and three sons. Unfortunately, his daughter wasn’t there yet, but he understood her need of a calming walk after waking up from her night. Zeke’s ears suddenly perked up, smiling.
-She’s here, he said, turning to look at the door as his eyes started glowing.
Koneka slowly padded in the house, greeted by everyone. She sat down quietly between Zeke and Onikuro, slowly eating the pancakes Shadow placed in front of her seat.
-How’d you sleep, sweetie? Neka asked.
-Terrible... Koneka sighed, large bags under her eyes.
-Did that walk help you? Marik asked, his rings white with worry.
-A little...
-Sis, wanna battle later? Onikuro asked, trying to cheer her up.
-Not really....
-Do you want to talk about it later, Koneka? Mikazuki asked, smiling. Maybe talking will help you.
The Liepard turned to face her cousin. The Umbrespeon girl had matured a lot in the past months and was turning out to be a fine young lady. Her baby face had grown to that of a teenager and she had grown slightly taller, now about the same height as her aunt Leaf. The terrified look in her eyes after all that had happened to her was gone, replaced by a serene gaze and smile. Her hyperactive personality had also settled down, leaving her enjoying friendly spars, but not necessarily running around like Onikuro always was. She had earrings dangling from her two ears, much to Bolt’s disapproval as she had snuck out of the house to get them.
-Yeah... I think I’d like that... Koneka let out.
-Great! Just come to me whenever, okay? Mika smiled.
Small tears escaped Koneka’s eyes as she nodded, a faint smile on her lips. That smile made Shadow’s heart melt, reminding him of a time when all was simpler.
-Mika, before you talk with Koneka, I want a rematch! Onikuro demanded.
-You mean you want to get your face pummeled? Snowy giggled.
-Hey! I was really close to getting her last time!
-Keep dreaming, Oni. Mika’s a whole other league.
-I-I’m not that good... the Umbrespeon blushed.
-Sweetie, take the compliment, Dawn chuckled, licking her cheek. There’s nothing wrong with accepting a compliment, especially not when it’s true.
-Mooooom, not you too!
Her Espeon mother smiled and kisses her cheek, both purring together. Bolt watched them and smiled softly, hugging the two ladies of his world. It wasn’t long before Ryko snuck in the hug, giggling and cuddling his two parents and sister.
-Ryko, we were having a moment... Mikazuki sighed before picking him up and hugging him, ruffling his head’s fur.
-They get along so well, Dawn smiled, resting her head on Bolt’s shoulder.
-I wouldn’t have it any other way, Bolt said, kissing his mate’s ear.
The Espeon looked up at her Jolteon love and smiled before her eyes rested on his eye’s scar, her ears drooping softly. Bolt noticed it and sighed, looking away. “She never did quite get over my wound... ” Bolt told himself. “That look of pain and fear... It just... ”
-Dad? Helloooooo? Mika asked as she waved her paw in front of his eyes.
-Y-Yes?
-Ryko wants to visit the Metropolis, is it okay if we go? the Umbrespeon asked.
-Well... Only if you go with a responsible adult, he required.
-Ugh, Dad c’mon... I’m almost two, can’t I just go by myself with my little brother?
-Mika, it’s a four hour walk. I’m not letting anything happen to you again.
-Again with that? Fine... Can I go with uncle Spark?
-I said responsible...
-Hey! I heard that! Spark retorted under his family’s laughs.
-But he’s fun! the bipolar Pokémon argued. Besides, he can be responsible! He’s the father of two kids!
-I’ll go too, Blaze smiled. You won’t have to worry, Bolt.
-Fine... But you know the rules.
-Don’t talk to strangers, keep an eye on Ryko at all times, always be ready to defend myself and be back by sundown. Dad, you’ve told me those rules so many times I know them by heart.
Bolt hugged her tightly, kissing her forehead and giving her a small purse of gold coins. Mika’s eyes grew wide as she smiled and thanked him repeatedly for the money.
-Be safe, sweetie... Bolt said. I know you think I’m overprotective, but I just don’t want to risk losing you...
-I know, Dad. I love you! she added with a smile, kissing his nose.

After Spark was done feeding Yaku and they packed some berries and snacks, they left the house for the Metropolis. The summer’s light pierced the forest’s leaves, lighting the place and giving off a very serene atmosphere. That peace was soon broken by Akarui, Ryko and Yaku running around, chasing each other in a game of tag as they walked towards the city.
-Why does everyone think I’m irresponsible? Spark despaired. I’m not that bad!
-Oh come on, cheer up! Blaze giggled as she nibbled his ear playfully.
-Dadda! Look! Yaku chirped as she held on Akarui’s paws as the Jolteon flapped his flaming wings, lifting her in the air.
-Hnnnnf.... Akarui groaned.
-Yaku!! Spark yipped, hurrying and making her let go of her brother. You can hurt yourself!
-Fun! the Vulpix giggled.
-See? If you were irresponsible, you would have said something like “Congrats”, so you’re not that bad! Spark’s mate chuckled.
Mikazuki watched the two and smiled, slightly envious of the relationship Spark and Blaze had. She wished she could have one person love her, while still giving her the freedom she needed. “Since what happened with Nocturn, Mom and Dad have barely let me out of the house. ” she sighed. “And when they did, I couldn’t be alone. I mean, I understand why, but... It’s still hard, being sheltered like that. I just want a little freedom... To be able to do things myself without Mom and Dad worrying or choking me with restrictions and protection... ”
-Sad? a small voice asked, pulling Mika out of her thoughts.
-Huh? No, I’m just thinking, she smiled as she picked Yaku up, hugging her. Oof, you’re a big girl!
The young girl giggled, a small bolt of electricity jumping from her fur into Mika’s, shocking her and making her yelp. The Umbrespeon’s short fur stood on its end, giving her a fuzzy look with wide eyes.
-I forgot about those... she sighed under Yaku’s laughs.
-Eh heh, sorry she inherited my powers, hun, Spark apologized, taking Yaku back.
-It’s Akarui all over again, Blaze giggled.
-Now I look as fuzzy as Uncle Spark... Mika sighed.
-It’s cute, Blaze giggled.
-Cute! Cute! the Vulpix chirped.
-Awww, she’s so adorable! Spark said as he rubbed behind her ears.
Yaku leaned in the rubbing, closing her eyes in delight. She smiled widely under her father’s care, her tails swaying slowly. Ryko’s pupils grew as he watched the tails, lowering his rump to the ground and preparing to pounce her.
-Ryko, don... Mika started before sighing, her Eevee brother already on top of Yaku.
The Umbrespeon giggled softly, smiling before she heard running behind her. She turned around just in time to see Koneka fall in her paws, crying loudly.
-K-Koneka?!
-I need to talk! Please! the Liepard cried.

After warning Blaze and Spark, Mika brought her cousin farther, close to the river and made her sit down. She sat close to her and hugged her tightly, rubbing her back.
-There... Mika said after giving Koneka her favorite nuts to eat.
-T-Thanks... the Liepard nodded. It’s... appreciated...
-Now... what can we talk about to make you feel better?
-W-Well... Dad told me something... A-And I need to talk to you about it b-because I need an advice...
-To me? I mean, Marik is much better at counseling, but...
-I can’t ask Marik!! It’s... too private...
-Private? Is something wrong?
-N-Not wrong... But... With all the nightmares I’ve had, I’m not sure I can do it...
-Do what, Koneka? C’mon, you can tell me...
-Mika... I want you to keep this to yourself... promise...
-Of course I wi-
-PROMISE!!! Koneka screamed, her eyes turning a cold blue in an instant.
-EEP! I will! I promise!! Mika yelped. Just please, calm down!
-I... I’m sorry... Koneka cried, her eyes turning back to normal. I-I didn’t... mean to...
Mikazuki hugged her tightly again, letting her tears fall as her cousin sobbed. She didn’t exactly know how to make things better, so she started whispering words of encouragement in Koneka’s ear. Her tactic worked, as the dark type started to calm down after some time.
-M-My... collar barely... helps anymore... she despaired. I... I get so... a-angry sometimes... o-over nothing!
-It’s okay... It’s not you... Mika murmured. Everyone loves you...
-M-Mika... A-About what I needed to... tell you... I-I’m...
-You’re what, Koneka...? You’re not thinking again of...?
-No, nothing like that!! I... Dad told me I’m... p... pr... pregnant........
-Oh my gosh, that’s wonderful!! You and Zeke will have a baby!!
-It’s not! I-I’m too depressed to have a baby!! I don’t want it to live its life with a mother that can b-barely keep her sanity in check!
-You mean... you don’t know if you’ll keep the baby!?
-I don’t think I’m ready, Mika... It’s just... it’s too much!
-Maybe... Maybe that’s exactly what you need... Start a family of your own! Maybe that’ll make you happy! I remember Marik telling me how eager you were to be a mother!
-You... You really think so...?
Mikazuki hugged her cousin tightly and nodded. This was all it took for Koneka to cry in her shoulder again, this time of relief. She embraced this moment, silently thanking Arceus to have such a supporting family around her, gently helping her through her depression.

Description
Catching Up

The two small creatures crept closer, their surroundings towering them in height. The larger one, with its red, fluffy fur, looked around and saw that no one else was up. The smaller one’s ears perked up to pick up any sound that would interrupt their hunting and, when the creature was satisfied, nodded to its partner. The red furred Pokémon got ready to pounce, a smirk forming on its vulpine lips.
-One... Two... Three! the smaller chanted.
At the same time, both Pokémon jumped on the bed and ran around, waking up both of their parents in panic.
-Mommy! Daddy! Akarui cried out, giggling.
-Momma! Dadda! the larger Pokémon laughed.
-Akarui!! Yaku!! C’mon, kids, stop! Spark despaired, trying to calm both down.
They sat down, giggling to themselves. Spark looked at them with his tired eyes and messed up fur, having just woken up. The larger Pokémon, Yaku, was cuddling and hugging Akarui, her older brother. With her lager size, she accidently fell on top of him, squishing him under her belly. Her two Vulpix tails wagged, showing her early age.
-Sissy! Akarui wriggled. Get off!
She ignored his cry for help and hugged him more, smiling widely. Blaze lifted her head from the pillow and laughed softly before picking Yaku up, freeing her son in the process. She hugged Yaku and tickled her, making her flail and giggle.
-Momma! the little girl giggled. Tickwes!
-I sure hope so! the Ninetales laughed.
Akarui silently crawled, trying to get out of the room before Spark caught him. He let out a small “eep” as he was dragged back by his father.
-What did Daddy say about waking him up this early in the morning? the older Jolteon asked, smiling a little.
-Uuh... I dunno... his son said, looking away.
-You know very well, Mister, Spark chuckled before tickling Akarui, making him laugh loudly. Now you’re going to tickle prison!
-No!! the small Jolteon giggled, wiggling happily.
The two parents continued for some time before letting their two children go play elsewhere. They looked at each other and laughed at their ridiculous look of half asleep adults before they nuzzled softly, smiling. “I couldn’t be happier.” Spark told himself. “I have the mate of my dreams, two great kids, an amazing family... And no danger seems to watch us. Maybe we finally have some luck... I love this peace. ”
-C’mon, let’s get breakfast! Blaze smiled, her tails wagging softly.
-Coming! the older Jolteon replied, licking her nose as they went downstairs.

The smell of cooking pancakes slowly filled the house, every occupant waking up and being entranced by it. The many children all sat at the table, chanting happily as Shadow settled plates in front of them, smiling.
-Bon appétit! he said as they all dug in.
The Umbreon looked at them and smiled. Pyro was sitting with his daughter and his new, twin sons, eating as eagerly as them.
-It’s so good! the first one said.
-Super good! the second one added.
-Okashi and Omashi seem to like breakfast, Celia giggled as she sat between Pyro and Celest. And congratulations again on your evolution, sweetheart! she smiled as she kissed Celest’s now pink forehead.
-Thank you, Mommy! the newly evolved Sylveon chirped.
Shadow giggled at the young girl’s contagious happiness. The moonlight Pokémon looked to his left, watching Akarui, Hikari and Ryko all eat together. While Akarui was the second smallest of the three, he also acted oldest for his age, able to easily speak complete sentences, although that didn’t stop him from being just like Spark when he was a child. He was clumsy, even with his divine powers, enjoyed teasing everyone and he loved to have fun. But most of all, he loved to fly. He had almost given his father a heart attack when Spark had seen him flying, two wings made of rainbow flames flapping on his back.
-Akarui, don’t eat so fast! Blaze said. You’ll...
-I feel weird... Akarui whimpered, holding his belly.
-He’ll be fine, just give him some time to digest all that, Shadow told Blaze.
She smiled and thanked him before turning back to her son, warning him about eating too fast. At the same time, Spark was feeding Yaku some more appropriate food for her age, despite her whimpers of protest.
-Want Aka food.
-Sweetie, that’s not good for you, Spark sighed. I told you already...
-Want Aka food.
-Nuhuh, you’re eating healthy to be a big, strong, baby girl!
-I no baby!
Spark resisted his daughter’s begging eyes as much as he could, since he knew his weaknesses. Her large, purple eyes were the same as his, full of mischief and happiness. Yaku knew of her advantage too and lowered her head, looking up at Spark with absolutely adorable eyes. Spark bit his lips, looking torn between his responsibilities as a parent and his need to satisfy his daughter’s cravings.
-Three, two, one... Blaze counted down before Spark gave a small piece of pancake.
The Vulpix ate the small piece, her eyes widening and demanding more. Spark looked up at Blaze, silently crying out for help. The fox Pokémon giggled and whispered “You got yourself in this” before going back to her own pancakes.
-Yaku... Spark despaired.
-Mowe, pwease! she asked with her cutest sing-song voice.
“That little Daddy’s girl... ” Spark sighed internally, giving her another piece. “She’s gonna be the death of me... ”
Shadow smiled before turning to look at his mate and three sons. Unfortunately, his daughter wasn’t there yet, but he understood her need of a calming walk after waking up from her night. Zeke’s ears suddenly perked up, smiling.
-She’s here, he said, turning to look at the door as his eyes started glowing.
Koneka slowly padded in the house, greeted by everyone. She sat down quietly between Zeke and Onikuro, slowly eating the pancakes Shadow placed in front of her seat.
-How’d you sleep, sweetie? Neka asked.
-Terrible... Koneka sighed, large bags under her eyes.
-Did that walk help you? Marik asked, his rings white with worry.
-A little...
-Sis, wanna battle later? Onikuro asked, trying to cheer her up.
-Not really....
-Do you want to talk about it later, Koneka? Mikazuki asked, smiling. Maybe talking will help you.
The Liepard turned to face her cousin. The Umbrespeon girl had matured a lot in the past months and was turning out to be a fine young lady. Her baby face had grown to that of a teenager and she had grown slightly taller, now about the same height as her aunt Leaf. The terrified look in her eyes after all that had happened to her was gone, replaced by a serene gaze and smile. Her hyperactive personality had also settled down, leaving her enjoying friendly spars, but not necessarily running around like Onikuro always was. She had earrings dangling from her two ears, much to Bolt’s disapproval as she had snuck out of the house to get them.
-Yeah... I think I’d like that... Koneka let out.
-Great! Just come to me whenever, okay? Mika smiled.
Small tears escaped Koneka’s eyes as she nodded, a faint smile on her lips. That smile made Shadow’s heart melt, reminding him of a time when all was simpler.
-Mika, before you talk with Koneka, I want a rematch! Onikuro demanded.
-You mean you want to get your face pummeled? Snowy giggled.
-Hey! I was really close to getting her last time!
-Keep dreaming, Oni. Mika’s a whole other league.
-I-I’m not that good... the Umbrespeon blushed.
-Sweetie, take the compliment, Dawn chuckled, licking her cheek. There’s nothing wrong with accepting a compliment, especially not when it’s true.
-Mooooom, not you too!
Her Espeon mother smiled and kisses her cheek, both purring together. Bolt watched them and smiled softly, hugging the two ladies of his world. It wasn’t long before Ryko snuck in the hug, giggling and cuddling his two parents and sister.
-Ryko, we were having a moment... Mikazuki sighed before picking him up and hugging him, ruffling his head’s fur.
-They get along so well, Dawn smiled, resting her head on Bolt’s shoulder.
-I wouldn’t have it any other way, Bolt said, kissing his mate’s ear.
The Espeon looked up at her Jolteon love and smiled before her eyes rested on his eye’s scar, her ears drooping softly. Bolt noticed it and sighed, looking away. “She never did quite get over my wound... ” Bolt told himself. “That look of pain and fear... It just... ”
-Dad? Helloooooo? Mika asked as she waved her paw in front of his eyes.
-Y-Yes?
-Ryko wants to visit the Metropolis, is it okay if we go? the Umbrespeon asked.
-Well... Only if you go with a responsible adult, he required.
-Ugh, Dad c’mon... I’m almost two, can’t I just go by myself with my little brother?
-Mika, it’s a four hour walk. I’m not letting anything happen to you again.
-Again with that? Fine... Can I go with uncle Spark?
-I said responsible...
-Hey! I heard that! Spark retorted under his family’s laughs.
-But he’s fun! the bipolar Pokémon argued. Besides, he can be responsible! He’s the father of two kids!
-I’ll go too, Blaze smiled. You won’t have to worry, Bolt.
-Fine... But you know the rules.
-Don’t talk to strangers, keep an eye on Ryko at all times, always be ready to defend myself and be back by sundown. Dad, you’ve told me those rules so many times I know them by heart.
Bolt hugged her tightly, kissing her forehead and giving her a small purse of gold coins. Mika’s eyes grew wide as she smiled and thanked him repeatedly for the money.
-Be safe, sweetie... Bolt said. I know you think I’m overprotective, but I just don’t want to risk losing you...
-I know, Dad. I love you! she added with a smile, kissing his nose.

After Spark was done feeding Yaku and they packed some berries and snacks, they left the house for the Metropolis. The summer’s light pierced the forest’s leaves, lighting the place and giving off a very serene atmosphere. That peace was soon broken by Akarui, Ryko and Yaku running around, chasing each other in a game of tag as they walked towards the city.
-Why does everyone think I’m irresponsible? Spark despaired. I’m not that bad!
-Oh come on, cheer up! Blaze giggled as she nibbled his ear playfully.
-Dadda! Look! Yaku chirped as she held on Akarui’s paws as the Jolteon flapped his flaming wings, lifting her in the air.
-Hnnnnf.... Akarui groaned.
-Yaku!! Spark yipped, hurrying and making her let go of her brother. You can hurt yourself!
-Fun! the Vulpix giggled.
-See? If you were irresponsible, you would have said something like “Congrats”, so you’re not that bad! Spark’s mate chuckled.
Mikazuki watched the two and smiled, slightly envious of the relationship Spark and Blaze had. She wished she could have one person love her, while still giving her the freedom she needed. “Since what happened with Nocturn, Mom and Dad have barely let me out of the house. ” she sighed. “And when they did, I couldn’t be alone. I mean, I understand why, but... It’s still hard, being sheltered like that. I just want a little freedom... To be able to do things myself without Mom and Dad worrying or choking me with restrictions and protection... ”
-Sad? a small voice asked, pulling Mika out of her thoughts.
-Huh? No, I’m just thinking, she smiled as she picked Yaku up, hugging her. Oof, you’re a big girl!
The young girl giggled, a small bolt of electricity jumping from her fur into Mika’s, shocking her and making her yelp. The Umbrespeon’s short fur stood on its end, giving her a fuzzy look with wide eyes.
-I forgot about those... she sighed under Yaku’s laughs.
-Eh heh, sorry she inherited my powers, hun, Spark apologized, taking Yaku back.
-It’s Akarui all over again, Blaze giggled.
-Now I look as fuzzy as Uncle Spark... Mika sighed.
-It’s cute, Blaze giggled.
-Cute! Cute! the Vulpix chirped.
-Awww, she’s so adorable! Spark said as he rubbed behind her ears.
Yaku leaned in the rubbing, closing her eyes in delight. She smiled widely under her father’s care, her tails swaying slowly. Ryko’s pupils grew as he watched the tails, lowering his rump to the ground and preparing to pounce her.
-Ryko, don... Mika started before sighing, her Eevee brother already on top of Yaku.
The Umbrespeon giggled softly, smiling before she heard running behind her. She turned around just in time to see Koneka fall in her paws, crying loudly.
-K-Koneka?!
-I need to talk! Please! the Liepard cried.

After warning Blaze and Spark, Mika brought her cousin farther, close to the river and made her sit down. She sat close to her and hugged her tightly, rubbing her back.
-There... Mika said after giving Koneka her favorite nuts to eat.
-T-Thanks... the Liepard nodded. It’s... appreciated...
-Now... what can we talk about to make you feel better?
-W-Well... Dad told me something... A-And I need to talk to you about it b-because I need an advice...
-To me? I mean, Marik is much better at counseling, but...
-I can’t ask Marik!! It’s... too private...
-Private? Is something wrong?
-N-Not wrong... But... With all the nightmares I’ve had, I’m not sure I can do it...
-Do what, Koneka? C’mon, you can tell me...
-Mika... I want you to keep this to yourself... promise...
-Of course I wi-
-PROMISE!!! Koneka screamed, her eyes turning a cold blue in an instant.
-EEP! I will! I promise!! Mika yelped. Just please, calm down!
-I... I’m sorry... Koneka cried, her eyes turning back to normal. I-I didn’t... mean to...
Mikazuki hugged her tightly again, letting her tears fall as her cousin sobbed. She didn’t exactly know how to make things better, so she started whispering words of encouragement in Koneka’s ear. Her tactic worked, as the dark type started to calm down after some time.
-M-My... collar barely... helps anymore... she despaired. I... I get so... a-angry sometimes... o-over nothing!
-It’s okay... It’s not you... Mika murmured. Everyone loves you...
-M-Mika... A-About what I needed to... tell you... I-I’m...
-You’re what, Koneka...? You’re not thinking again of...?
-No, nothing like that!! I... Dad told me I’m... p... pr... pregnant........
-Oh my gosh, that’s wonderful!! You and Zeke will have a baby!!
-It’s not! I-I’m too depressed to have a baby!! I don’t want it to live its life with a mother that can b-barely keep her sanity in check!
-You mean... you don’t know if you’ll keep the baby!?
-I don’t think I’m ready, Mika... It’s just... it’s too much!
-Maybe... Maybe that’s exactly what you need... Start a family of your own! Maybe that’ll make you happy! I remember Marik telling me how eager you were to be a mother!
-You... You really think so...?
Mikazuki hugged her cousin tightly and nodded. This was all it took for Koneka to cry in her shoulder again, this time of relief. She embraced this moment, silently thanking Arceus to have such a supporting family around her, gently helping her through her depression.