When Serapha and her Friends are looking for a mission to complete a Nidorino approaches them with a request. They accept his mission and head to Dark Valley, where Nidorino’s girlfriend is trapped. Enjoy!

All pokémon belong to Game Freak, The Pokémon Company and Nintendo.

Serapha the Dragonite belongs to me.

Previous: https://www.furaffinity.net/view/61867445/


The guild hall buzzed with chatter and the rustle of papers as Pokémon scurried to check the mission board. Rill and Ember hovered near the display, eyes scanning for anything that might spark their interest today. Serapha leaned slightly against the wall, her claws tucked neatly under her, her wings relaxed—but then, a deep, rumbling growl erupted from her belly.

“Oh… uh…” Serapha’s cheeks flushed a vivid pink as she quickly pressed both hands to her stomach. The noise had been so loud that a few nearby Pokémon glanced in their direction. A soft murmur ran through the hall, and Serapha buried her face in her hands. “I… it’s impossible to lose weight when you’re this hungry all the time…”

Rill’s eyes sparkled with mischief. He reached out with a wing and poked at her lower belly. The soft, flabby flesh sank under his touch with a wet, squishy gurgle, wobbling and jiggling delightfully.

“RILL!” Serapha squeaked, cheeks burning even brighter. “Knock it off!”

But before he could pull back, she let out a resigned groan, slowly sliding down to her rump. The guild hall shook slightly under her weight with a soft thud, making the earth tremble beneath her. Several Pokémon yelped in surprise at the sudden quake, losing their footing or teetering precariously. Ember chuckled softly, wings crossing, watching the scene.

“Honestly,” he said with a smirk, “you’re so easy to tease, Serapha.”

The dragonite groaned, a blush still warming her scales, but a reluctant chuckle escaped her as she shook her head. “I—don’t remind me…”

Just then, a Nidorino approached, ears twitching nervously and tail flicking anxiously. “Uh… excuse me,” he began, voice shaky but earnest, “could you… could you help me with an escort mission?”

Rill and Ember turned immediately, listening intently as the Nidorino continued. “I… I was separated from my girlfriend, Nidorina, in a dungeon. I was defeated and sent back to Treasure Town, but she… she’s still there. I tried to reach her, but I’m too weak alone.”

The trio exchanged glances. Rill nodded quickly, determination shining in his eyes. “We can help. Don’t worry, you’re not going back in there alone.”

Ember placed a hand on the Nidorino’s shoulder, giving him a reassuring pat. “We’ll make sure you get to her safely.”

Serapha stood, her towering frame casting a shadow over Nidorino. Her scales caught the overhead light, giving her an almost radiant glow. “Lead the way,” she said warmly, a soft smile tugging at her lips. “We’ll take care of this.”

The Nidorino’s ears perked, a flicker of hope in his eyes. With the path set and their team ready, they headed to the dungeon’s entrance, ready to face whatever challenges awaited them.

The quartet stood at the entrance of the dungeon, a jagged rift in the mountainside known as Dark Valley. The shadows stretched long and deep, curling ominously like waiting hands. A faint wind carried the damp, earthy scent of moss and rock, and distant echoes hinted at unseen creatures lurking just beyond the threshold.

Nidorino’s ears twitched nervously as he shifted from hoof to hoof. “This… this is Dark Valley,” he said with a sigh, eyes scanning the darkness ahead. “My girlfriend, Nidorina, and I… we came here to find an Impact Torc—one of the exclusive items for her evolution. And… and some Moon Stones, so we could evolve together.” His ears drooped, a mixture of worry and frustration weighing him down. “I tried… but I wasn’t strong enough. I had to retreat to Treasure Town… she’s still in there.”

Ember stepped forward, putting a reassuring hand on Nidorino’s shoulder. “Don’t worry. We’re here to help,” she said warmly, her grin soft and comforting. “You’re not going back in alone.”

Rill nodded, adjusting his feathers nervously but determined. “Yeah! We’ve got your back.”

Nidorino’s eyes brightened slightly, a glimmer of hope returning to his posture. “Really? You’ll… you’ll help me?”

“Yes,” Ember said confidently. “We’re not leaving anyone behind.”

For a brief moment, hope seemed to settle in the young Nidorino’s chest—but then a deep, low growl rumbled from Serapha’s belly.

His ears perked sharply. “Uh… what was that?”

Rill’s wings fluttered as he laughed, covering his beak. “Oh, that’s just her stomach. She’s… you know… always hungry.”

Serapha’s cheeks flamed bright pink. She instinctively hugged her soft, pudgy middle, the scales quivering slightly under her claws. “I… I’m sorry! That was… unexpected…” she muttered, voice muffled against her claws.

“Unexpected?” The Quaxly teased, poking at the dragonite’s lower belly with a wing. The soft flesh sank deep under his touch, jiggling and wobbling with a wet gurgle. “You had a ton of berries and apples for breakfast, huh? You’re such a bottomless pit!”

Serapha squeaked, eyes widening, and buried her face in her hands. Her tail flicked nervously, swaying back and forth like a metronome. “R-Rill! Stop it!”

Ember smirked, leaning casually against a rock nearby. “Careful, pal. You’re pushing your luck. She might sit on you as punishment.”

Rill froze mid-wing flap, eyes widening in horror. “W-What?! No! I—I was just kidding!”

Serapha’s eyes flicked up at him, a mischievous glint shining through her embarrassment. “That… is actually a good idea.”

Before Rill could react, the Dragonite slowly shifted, rising her rump and shadowing the quaxly completely. Rill yelped and stumbled back, desperately hiding behind Nidorino, feathers puffed and wings trembling.

“E-Ember! Tell her I was just joking! I didn’t mean it!” Rill stammered, peeking over Nidorino’s shoulder, wide-eyed.

The Fennekin rolled her eyes, hiding a chuckle behind her paw. “Relax, Rill. She’s not actually going to squash you… yet.”

Serapha lowered her gaze, still blushing, and her claws gripped her plush stomach. “Hmm… maybe later if you keep teasing me,” she said softly, a hint of playful warning in her voice. Her belly jiggled faintly with the motion, a low glurp rumbling through her, as if agreeing with her words.

Rill quivered, muttering, “I… I’ll behave… I promise…”

Ember laughed softly. “Alright. Let’s get going. The dungeon isn’t going to explore itself.”

Nidorino’s ears twitched, tail flicking nervously but with renewed determination. “Yes… let’s go. Nidorina’s waiting, and we can’t waste any more time.”

Serapha straightened fully, her wings stretching wide. “Ok,” she said warmly, a small smile on her lips. “We’ll get her back safely.”

The group stepped toward the looming entrance of Dark Valley. The shadows seemed to sway like living tendrils, but the trio—Serapha’s protective presence, Ember’s confidence, and Rill’s cautious vigilance—moved forward together.

Serapha’s belly let out a soft gloooorgh as they stepped into the darkness, and she rolled her eyes. “I swear… being a bottomless pit has its drawbacks…”

Ember smirked. “You’ll manage.”

Rill, still hiding behind Nidorino, whispered nervously, “…I hope so.”

The shadows of Dark Valley pressed down heavily on the group. Twisted, jagged trees clawed at the sky, their gnarled branches resembling skeletal fingers. A faint mist clung to the valley floor, carrying the musty, earthy scent of decayed leaves and damp soil. Nidorino trembled, his hooves dragging nervously through the underbrush.

“I… I don’t want to go in there…” he whispered, ears flat against his head. Every snapping twig and rustling leaf reminded him of the terror he had faced with Nidorina. He instinctively pressed himself behind a large boulder, eyes wide as shadowy Pokémon emerged from the dungeon—Zubat screeching, Murkrow cawing, and wild Pidgey swooping down.

Ember, noticing Nidorino’s fear, crouched slightly and placed a reassuring paw on his shoulder. “Hey, it’s okay. You don’t have to fight if you’re scared. We’ll handle this.” Her warm amber eyes locked with his, and he took a shaky breath, trying to absorb some of her calm.

Meanwhile, Serapha and Rill moved like a well-practiced team. The Dragonite’s wings unfurled as she swooped low, her claws and tail slamming the ground to fend off incoming Pokémon. Swipes, tail whips, and gusts of wind from her wings kept the smaller attackers at bay, while Rill’s precise pecks and wing jabs sent foes stumbling back into the mist.

After several tense minutes, the last of the aggressive Pokémon retreated back into the valley, leaving the quartet in a heavy silence broken only by Serapha’s soft, slightly shaky gurgle as she patted her rounded belly.

Turning back, they approached Nidorino, who was quivering violently behind the rock. “I-I’m sorry… I’m… I’m useless,” he whispered, voice trembling. “I… I can’t fight like that… I froze…”

Rill crouched slightly, his wing brushing against the ground. “It’s okay, Nidorino. You didn’t fight. That doesn’t mean you’re useless. But… we need to think of a way to protect you more.”

Serapha’s claws flexed slightly, worry creasing her brow. “Yeah… I can try to shield you, but the valley is too narrow. You’d still be exposed…” She tapped her rounded belly unconsciously, a soft gloooorgh rumbling from within.

Ember’s eyes suddenly lit up with a mischievous glint. “Wait… I think I have an idea.” She turned to the Dragonite with a sly grin. “Serapha… what if… you ate him?”

The words hung in the air like a shockwave. Serapha froze, eyes wide, jaw slightly ajar, claws hovering midair. “…Are… you serious?” she asked, voice incredulous.

Ember nodded confidently. “Absolutely. Think about it—he’d be completely safe. Surrounded by you… gentle, soft, and warm. He’d be protected from every single danger in this valley.”

Rill tilted his head, slowly nodding in agreement. “She’s right. He’d be safe in there… plus, you know, it’s hard to argue with being inside a bottomless pit of softness.” He smirked and reached out, poking Serapha’s lower belly. The soft flesh sank deep under his wing, jiggling with a wet gurgle.

Serapha squeaked, cheeks flaming a deep red. “R-Rill! Stop it! And… is there really… no other option?” Her tail flicked nervously behind her, brushing the mist-laden ground.

Nidorino’s ears twitched violently. “…I… I don’t know,” he admitted, looking at her wide, soft belly. “I… I don’t want to be digested…”

Ember chuckled, crouching to meet his gaze. “Hey, it’s okay. We’ve done it before,” she said, her grin warm and reassuring. “We’re safe and sound. Thanks to Reviver Seeds, we came back without a scratch.”

Serapha’s face flushed even deeper, and she groaned, swiping a claw across her face. “Ember! Don’t bring that up! That… that Grumpig outlaw was the one to blame for that incident…”

Rill’s wing drifted back to her belly. “Yeah… but I have to admit… he is bouncing fat on your body now. That was a proper punishment, if you ask me.” He poked gently again, the soft, yielding flesh sinking deep under his touch with a startled eep escaping from Serapha’s throat.

The Dragonite pressed a claw against her cheeks, blinking rapidly, still flustered. “…I swear, I’m going to eat him if you keep reminding me of that…”

Nidorino shuffled nervously, tail twitching. “…I-I… I don’t know if I could handle that…”

Ember leaned closer, voice softening. “You’ll be okay. I promise. Serapha is gentle… and she’ll keep you safe inside. No one can touch you. You’ll just be… snug and secure.”

Serapha’s rounded belly gave a soft glooorrrrg, as if agreeing with the Fennekin, and she gave a hesitant nod. “…Fine. But only if you’re sure you want to do this, Nidorino. I won’t force you.”

He swallowed hard, trembling from fear but seeing the sincerity in her eyes. “…I… I trust you,” he whispered.

Rill let out a soft exhale, wings trembling slightly from excitement and nervousness. “Alright then… looks like we’re ready.”

Serapha shifted onto her haunches, her soft belly jiggling slightly under her claws as she prepared herself. Ember smiled encouragingly, and Rill gave a tentative nod. The little Nidorino stepped forward slowly, his ears flicking nervously, but he didn’t resist as the Dragonite’s massive claws gently patted him.

The valley around them was silent now, but the distant echoes of the dungeon’s dangers still lingered, reminding them that every second counted. Yet, for Nidorino, the soft, warm embrace of Serapha’s rounded belly promised the safest shelter imaginable.

Serapha’s belly let out a deep, low GLOOOOORRRGHH, a rumble that echoed in the valley. Her claws instinctively hugged her rounded middle, cheeks flaring red. “I… I’m so sorry,” she muttered, her voice muffled slightly against her claws. “It seems… my stomach… it knows what’s coming.”

Nidorino swallowed nervously, ears twitching as he looked up at the massive Dragonite towering above him. She lifted him gently, holding him at eye level. Her warm, slightly musky breath brushed over him, carrying a faint sweetness from her last meal. He winced for a brief moment, but forced himself to stay calm.

“I… I’ll be okay,” he whispered to himself, tail flicking anxiously. “…She’s being gentle…”

Rill, perched nearby, rummaged through his bag and pulled out a single Reviver Seed. With a flick of his wing, he sent it spinning through the air. Nidorino’s eyes widened slightly as he caught it with his paw.

“Eat it,” Ember instructed softly, her eyes warm and reassuring. “Just to be sure. That way, if you end up… digested… you’ll come back no matter what.”

Nidorino’s ears flicked nervously, but he nodded, bringing the small, shiny seed to his mouth. With a quiet gulp, he swallowed it. The seed slid smoothly down his throat, giving him a small, reassuring glow of warmth.

He turned his gaze back to Serapha. Her eyes, soft and tender, locked on him, and for a moment, the quivering fear in him eased. “…I… I trust you,” he whispered.

Serapha let out a slow breath, her claws tightening gently around him, but in a protective way. “I promise… I’ll be gentle. I won’t hurt you,” she said softly, her voice low but filled with reassurance. Her rounded belly shifted slightly, jiggling under its own weight with a soft glurp.

Rill tilted his head, a small, approving smirk on his beak. “You can trust her, Nidorino. She only digests permanently mean Pokémon. That’s it. You’re safe.”

Ember chuckled softly, her tail flicking behind her. “As I said before… she digested us once by accident,” she added with a small, teasing smirk. “But look at us now—we’re right here, safe and sound. And trust me…” She leaned closer to the nervous Nidorino, whispering conspiratorially, “her belly is comfortable. Roomy, fleshy, squishy… even a little slimy and damp. Warm and hot, with a cacophony of gurgles and her heartbeat that… honestly… is quite soothing.”

Nidorino blinked, tilting his head in cautious curiosity. “…S-so it’s not… dangerous?”

Ember laughed softly, shaking her head. “Dangerous? Nah. The only drawback… the smell. But if you focus on her heartbeat and the warmth…” She waved a paw at the softly rising and falling swell of Serapha’s gut. “…it’s actually kind of relaxing.”

Serapha let out a faint sigh, her cheeks still tinged pink, but there was a soft smile on her face. “…If you’re ready, Nidorino… we can do this now. I’ll make sure you’re completely safe.”

Nidorino’s paws trembled slightly as he nodded, eyes meeting hers with trust. “…I… I’m ready,” he whispered. His ear flicked nervously, but he didn’t resist as Serapha cradled him gently closer to her rounded, soft belly.

Rill puffed out a small, amused chuckle. “Good. You’ll be fine. And hey—look at how soft she is. You’re gonna be nice and cozy.”

Ember grinned, folding her arms. “Yep. Just… ignore the smell. That’s the only tricky part. Everything else? Totally safe.”

Serapha gave a tiny, embarrassed laugh, her claws resting protectively around Nidorino. “Alright… then. Let’s get this done safely.” Her belly let out another soft glurp, a gentle vibration against Nidorino’s paws, almost like a soothing reminder that she was there to protect him.

Nidorino swallowed once, took a deep breath, and nodded again. “…Okay…”

Rill and Ember stepped back slightly, eyes vigilant, ready to make sure their little charge would remain safe no matter what. Serapha’s large, warm, and protective presence loomed over him, her heartbeat echoing softly against him, the soft squishy warmth of her belly a safe cocoon in the shadowy, dangerous Dark Valley.

Serapha opened her mouth carefully, letting Nidorino see the dark, tunnel-like interior of her throat. It was large, warm, and slightly slick from saliva, strands glistening faintly in the dim light. Her uvula swayed gently as she exhaled, sending warm breath washing over him.

Nidorino’s ears twitched nervously. He stared at the tunnel ahead, his paws trembling slightly. “…This is… really… weird,” he whispered, shivering. The faint coating of saliva sent a tiny shiver down his spine, but he forced himself to steady his breathing.

Serapha’s claws wrapped gently around him. “It’s alright, Nidorino,” she murmured softly. “I’m just keeping you safe. Nothing’s going to happen to you.”

With a low, careful homph, she nudged him forward just enough for the tip of his head to enter the soft, slick interior. Her lips closed around him, not forcefully, but enough to guide him gently inside. Nidorino gagged lightly at first, the warmth and slickness unfamiliar and a bit overwhelming, but he concentrated on steadying his breath.

Rill smirked from the side. “Serapha, you really shouldn’t be enjoying this. Remember—it’s an escort mission, not a meal,” he said teasingly.

Serapha froze, eyes wide. “I’m not!” she said in a muffled voice, pausing for a moment as she adjusted her claws to support him.

Ember chuckled softly, her amber eyes warm. “Sure, sure. We believe you,” she said, smirking knowingly.

Serapha exhaled, cheeks puffing slightly, and carefully continued to guide him inside. Her tongue moved gently along his back, helping him slide further while her claws supported his weight. She tilted her head back slightly, her massive chest expanding with each breath, cheeks puffing with effort.

Inside, Nidorino gagged lightly as his upper body was coated in saliva, the warmth pressing against him. The squish of Serapha’s soft, fleshy mouth pressed gently against him, warm and moist, but he reminded himself: this was completely safe. The steady thump of her heartbeat beneath him and the soft vibrations of her stomach gurgling gave a strangely calming rhythm.

“It’s… kind of squishy… and warm,” Nidorino murmured, trying to adjust to the dampness. “But… safe…”

“Exactly,” Serapha said, her voice soothing and low. “I’ve got you. Just hold still, and I’ll get us through the valley safely.” Her tail flicked behind her, balancing her massive frame.

Rill leaned slightly forward, smirking. “See? You’re perfectly safe. Nothing’s going to happen.”

Ember added, teasing lightly, “And the squish isn’t so bad. Just… a little warm and damp, but it’s protective. That’s what counts.”

Nidorino exhaled slowly, pressing into the soft flesh around him. The warmth, slight slickness, and rhythmic breath became oddly comforting. He could feel Serapha’s claws gently hugging him, supporting him fully, while her belly shifted slightly with her deep breaths.

Serapha exhaled, tail flicking lightly. “Good. Now we move carefully. Nothing will happen to you while you’re here. You’re safe with me.”

With that, she adjusted her stance, flexed her claws gently to keep him stable, and prepared herself. Nidorino, snug inside her massive, warm maw, felt secure despite the eerie shadows of Dark Valley. The gurgling of her stomach, the warmth, and the soft, squishy pressure wrapped him in a literal, protective embrace—intense but entirely safe.

After a few careful moments, Serapha shifted her massive jaw slightly, closing her mouth carefully behind Nidorino’s hindlegs. The soft, warm interior of her mouth cradled him gently, and her cheeks puffed out slightly from keeping him there for a moment, the muscles of her face flexing as she held him steady.

She let her tongue sweep lightly over him, the slick, warm surface easing his movement and helping him adjust in the tight space. Nidorino felt the gentle pressure of her tongue against his sides, the soft, moist walls pressing just enough to guide him safely. “O-of course this is unusual,” he muttered, trying to stay calm as his paws pressed lightly against her mouth’s interior.

Serapha’s tail swayed slowly behind her, balancing her massive body as her belly rumbled softly, the low gurgle echoing faintly in her chest. She gave a gentle roll of her tongue, moving Nidorino slightly from side to side so he shifted safely against her inner cheeks. Each motion was soft and deliberate, and she closed her eyes, letting out a faint, pleased hum. “Mmm,” she murmured, the vibration of her throat just enough to let him feel the gentle movement without discomfort.

From the side, Rill called out, a hint of urgency in his voice. “Serapha, you should send him down now! We don’t have all day!”

Ember added with a nod, her voice warm but practical: “He’s right. We need to continue the mission. Let’s move.”

Serapha’s cheeks flushed lightly, and she nodded, giving a muffled, apologetic sound. “I… I’m sorry,” she murmured, tilting her head back carefully. Nidorino felt his weight shift as the gentle tilt caused him to lose balance slightly, sliding forward into the back of her throat. The muscles there flexed softly as gravity and the soft, rhythmic contractions of her throat muscles guided him downward.

The fleshy walls of her throat expanded slightly, then contracted in a gentle squeezing motion, helping him move safely and steadily. From the outside, a soft bulge formed along Serapha’s neck, twitching subtly as her muscles flexed. The sensation was ticklish for her, and she let out faint snorts as the bulge disappeared beneath her collarbone.

Nidorino continued downward, supported and cushioned the whole way, until he reached the soft, expansive cavity of her belly. He landed with a muffled splash against the warm, squishy walls, the liquid and soft folds of flesh gently absorbing his weight. Her belly bounced slightly under him, then sloshed and settled as the natural pressure adjusted, keeping him secure and cushioned.

Serapha gently rubbed her belly with a clawed hand, feeling the soft weight of him settle. “Are you… alright?” she asked, her voice soft and calm, ensuring he felt safe.

“Yes… I’m fine,” Nidorino answered, his voice muffled slightly against the soft walls. “It’s… warm… and squishy… but I’m okay.”

Rill leaned slightly closer, smirking. “See? Nothing to worry about. You’re safe, cushioned, and protected.”

Ember added with a reassuring nod: “Exactly. It’s a little squishy, a little warm, but that’s what keeps him safe while we move. All that matters is he’s secure and protected.”

Serapha exhaled slowly, tail swaying lightly behind her, and gave her belly another gentle rub. “Good. Stay calm, Nidorino. I’ll carry us carefully through the valley, and nothing will happen to you while you’re here,” she said.

Nidorino pressed slightly against the warm, soft walls of her belly, feeling the rhythmic gurgle of her stomach and the steady vibration of her heartbeat beneath him. The soft, squishy, and slightly wet environment was unusual, but it was safe and surprisingly comforting. “Alright… I understand now,” he said, relaxing slightly. “You’re keeping me completely safe.”

Serapha’s eyes softened as she flexed her claws slightly, adjusting her body to balance. “Exactly. Nothing will harm you. Just stay calm, and I’ll get us through the valley safely,” she said. Her tail swayed lightly as she prepared to move forward, her massive form stepping carefully over the uneven forest floor.

Every movement caused gentle shifts in her soft, fleshy belly, the squish and warmth adjusting naturally around Nidorino. The thump of her heartbeat and low gurgle of her stomach provided a strange, soothing rhythm, a constant reassurance of her presence and care. Even in the dark shadows of the valley, he felt completely safe, cradled inside a living, breathing guardian.

Inside Serapha, the space was astonishingly roomy. Nidorino felt the soft, muscular walls of her belly pulse rhythmically around him with every heartbeat, the gentle squeeze creating a peculiar but oddly comforting pressure. A faint gurgling echoed through the cavity, the soft rumble of her stomach blending with the vibrations of her chest.

Beneath him, a shallow pool of fluids reflected the warm, dim light filtering from the dungeon. Bits of previous meals—apples, berries, and other scraps—floated lazily in it. The damp warmth of the interior pressed around him, slightly humid and a little uncomfortable, but Nidorino quickly realized it was manageable.

Just as Ember had mentioned before, the smell was noticeable. It made him gag lightly, and his eyes watered. He lifted a paw and pressed it gently against the soft, pliable wall of her belly, trying to steady himself.

Serapha’s breath caught as she felt the pressure against her belly, and a soft purr escaped her throat before she could stop it. She closed her eyes briefly, a small smile crossing her face, enjoying the literal, living rhythm of her body as she felt Nidorino adjust inside her.

Nidorino moved carefully, rubbing the stomach wall with his paw. The soft, elastic flesh squished gently beneath him with each step. “It’s… slippery… and warm…” he muttered, his voice muffled slightly by the surrounding walls. “But… I think I can manage.”

Serapha let out a faint laugh, still purring softly. “Careful now… don’t push too hard,” she murmured. “I’m glad you’re okay in there.” Her tail swayed slowly behind her, brushing against the ground as her body shifted slightly with her subtle movements.

Ember rolled her eyes, smirking. “You’re enjoying this way too much. Remember, we’re supposed to be on a mission.”

Rill leaned closer, gesturing toward the dungeon entrance. “Ember’s right. Time to get moving. Nidorina and the items aren’t going to find themselves.”

Serapha nodded, taking a careful breath. “Alright… we’ll go.” She straightened to rise onto her feet, a little too quickly. The sudden motion caused the soft, wet walls of her belly to slosh and bounce, and the pool beneath Nidorino shifted sharply. He lost his balance for a moment, landing on his back with a muffled splash and letting out a startled yelp.

“Oh! Nidorino! I’m so sorry!” Serapha exclaimed, placing her clawed hands over her belly to steady it. She rubbed the soft walls gently, careful not to jostle him again. “I didn’t mean to move so fast!”

Nidorino pushed against the soft walls with his paws, letting out a small, shaky whimper. “I… I’m okay… just… a little splashy,” he said, still adjusting to the environment.

Ember chuckled from the side. “See? This is why you have to be careful. You’re supposed to protect him, not make him feel like a berry in a shake.”

Rill smirked, arms crossed. “Exactly. Keep the squish and the warmth safe, but don’t overdo it. He’s not a prop.”

Serapha let out a small, embarrassed chuckle, her cheeks puffing slightly. “Right… I’ll be careful,” she said softly, continuing to rub her belly and steady Nidorino. “I promise. We’ll get through this safely.”

Inside, Nidorino pressed gently against the walls again, feeling the steady rhythm of her heartbeat and the soft, pulsing squeeze of the muscular walls around him. The gurgles beneath him shifted slightly with the motion, but the warm, cushioned environment kept him secure. “Okay… I can do this,” he said, tail flicking nervously but reassured by Serapha’s careful movements.

Serapha exhaled slowly, tail swaying behind her as she shifted her stance to move forward more carefully. “Good. Hold on. Step by step, we’ll get to Nidorina and the items without any more surprises,” she murmured.

Ember nodded, eyes twinkling. “And he’ll be safe the whole way—just like a little passenger in a very big, squishy, living vehicle.”

Rill grinned. “Exactly. Keep him snug, keep him safe, and don’t splash him again.”

Serapha chuckled softly, glancing down at her belly, feeling the warmth and gentle pressure of Nidorino against her. “Don’t worry,” she said softly, voice filled with reassurance. “I’ve got you.”

Suddenly, Serapha’s stomach let out a deafening gurgle, echoing through her massive frame. The sound reverberated across the valley and caused Ember to flinch, her fur rising slightly. Rill’s wings twitched, and he muttered, “That… didn’t sound good.”

Inside, Nidorino’s eyes widened in alarm. The soft, squishy walls of Serapha’s belly vibrated violently with the gurgle, sending a ripple through the warm, fleshy cavity. The thin layer of natural moisture lining the stomach walls sloshed around him, coating his paws in slick warmth as he struggled to stay on his feet. Bits of half-digested apples and berries bobbed in the shallow pool beneath him, and each ripple sent tiny splashes into the surrounding soft walls. The gurgle seemed to pulse in every direction, echoing off the elastic walls, filling the space with a cacophony of low, wet rumbling.

Nidorino pressed a paw against the pulsing stomach wall, trying to steady himself. “W-wha—what’s happening?” he asked, his voice muffled slightly by the squishy, wet surroundings. The slight heat and dampness pressed against him from all sides, the soft, slick walls occasionally flexing gently with each of Serapha’s stomach contractions.

Serapha’s eyes widened, her gaze dropping immediately to her belly. She crouched slightly, hugging Nidorino gently with her clawed hands, her voice tinged with worry. “Oh no… it’s too soon… my stomach shouldn’t be doing this yet,” she murmured nervously. Her tail flicked behind her, brushing the forest floor as the vibrations of her inner muscles tickled her nerves.

Rill’s voice was cautious. “Yeah… I didn’t like the sound of that at all.”

Ember nodded, her ears flattening slightly. “It’s… it’s big… and loud… her belly’s gurgling louder than before.” Her fur bristled as she leaned back, keeping her distance while her eyes never left Serapha’s frame.

Serapha’s hands flew to her mouth when she felt an enormous surge of air rising rapidly through her throat. The pulsing walls of her belly contracted in rhythm with the tremors of the gurgle, slick with a thin coating of slime. Nidorino slid slightly as the soft walls shifted beneath him, the air forcing him to brace himself against the squishy, wet surfaces.

“I-I can’t hold it…!” Serapha’s voice trembled, muffled against the tension in her chest. Her claws dug lightly into her belly for balance as her massive frame shivered. Her tail flicked anxiously, knocking a small stone loose in the dirt.

Seconds stretched unbearably. Nidorino pressed his paws against the slippery stomach walls, trying to resist the surging pull of the pulsating cavity. The gurgles surrounding him combined with the wet squelching of the fluids beneath him, creating a loud, resonant rhythm. “P-please… stop! I-I can’t—!” he shouted, voice quivering, eyes watering from both fear and the strong odor emanating from the stomach’s interior.

Finally, Serapha’s control snapped. Her jaws parted, tilting her head back, and a thunderous belch erupted from her throat, shaking the forest around them:

“BUUUUUUUUUUUUURRRRRRRRRRRPPPPP!!”

Ember and Rill froze, their eyes wide as they stared at their friend releasing the tremendous outburst. The sound reverberated through the dungeon, the low frequencies vibrating through the ground and the air alike.

Inside, the effect was immediate. Nidorino was tossed violently from side to side, the slick, slime-coated stomach walls letting him slide uncontrollably. He collided softly with the elastic inner walls, the shock of each collision cushioned by the pulsing muscle. Splashes erupted from the shallow pool beneath him, sending tiny droplets across the glossy surface. His tail whipped up and down as he tried to regain footing.

“St-stop! Please!” Nidorino cried out, his voice echoing faintly against the moist walls. Each pulse of Serapha’s stomach compressed around him, alternately squeezing and loosening, making him feel both protected and jostled at the same time. The gurgling sounds, combined with the wet squish of the walls and the faint vibration from her heartbeat, created a chaotic environment.

Serapha’s hands flew back to her face the instant the thunderous belch escaped her throat. Her cheeks burned a deep red as if she could somehow undo what had just happened. A nervous, high-pitched giggle escaped her lips between muffled apologies. “I-I… I’m so sorry! I didn’t mean—!”

Her stomach continued to bounce and slosh violently for a few more seconds, the waves of fluids jostling Nidorino and splashing the inner walls with a wet, squelchy sound. A deep, resonant gurgle vibrated through the cavity as the air that had been trapped surged out, leaving the space quieter and slightly less tense—but still messy, slick, and warm.

Ember blinked, clearly taken aback. “I… didn’t know you could… that… I mean, that belch—wow,” she muttered, her fur bristling slightly at the sheer volume.

Rill, unable to resist, smirked as he covered his beak with one wing, a small, muffled “pffffft” escaping. “Okay… that one definitely beat the others,” he said, trying—and failing—to hide his amusement.

The Quaxly stepped forward cautiously, raising his voice over the last echoing gurgles. “Nidorino! Are you okay in there?”

A muffled voice responded a few seconds later, weak but defiant. “I-I’m… dizzy… my head’s spinning… and I think I might develop a lifelong trauma from this… but… I’m okay,” Nidorino admitted, wobbling slightly as he pressed against the slick, squishy walls. The fluids sloshed under him as he shifted to regain balance.

Serapha’s blush deepened, her claws covering her face as she stammered. “I-I didn’t… I didn’t mean to…! Oh, goodness, I’m so sorry!” Her tail flicked nervously behind her, brushing the uneven forest floor as she shifted her massive weight.

Rill, grinning through his wings, patted the quivering Dragonite’s belly with a light, careful touch. “You know… for all its… quirks and messiness, it’s… well, it’s definitely memorable,” he said, letting the vibration from his tap resonate through the jiggling, bouncing stomach.

Serapha peeked through her fingers, still flushed, and let out another nervous giggle. “M-Memorable, huh? That’s one way to put it… I promise I’ll try to… be more careful next time,” she muttered, her claws twitching as the final waves of gurgle faded.

Ember rolled her eyes with a faint smile, letting out a soft sigh. “Honestly… I can’t decide if I’m impressed or horrified,” she said. “That was… spectacular.”

Nidorino, pressing himself against the slippery, bouncing walls, gave a muffled groan. “S-spectacular… yeah, terrifying and dizzying, but… I survived,” he admitted, shaking his head slightly as he slid a bit in the still-wobbling fluids.

Serapha exhaled shakily, letting her claws drop to her sides. Her tail swayed behind her like a metronome, and she muttered softly, “Next time… maybe I’ll warn you before I… release a storm like that…”

Rill smirked again, giving the belly another light tap that made a fresh ripple run through the fluid inside. “You’ve got lungs, I’ll give you that. But next time… try not to launch your passenger into orbit, okay?”

Ember chuckled, shaking her head. “Yeah, seriously. He’s already dizzy—don’t make him seasick too.”

Inside, Nidorino pressed himself against a slick, quivering wall, carefully adjusting his paws to stay upright. “I… I think I’ll survive,” he said faintly, though his tail flicked nervously with the last of the jostle. “Just… maybe no more… belches for a while, okay?”

Serapha’s claws hovered over the slick, bouncing walls again, still flushed and giggling. “Agreed… I think I’ve had enough surprises for one mission,” she said, letting out a soft exhale as the last small gurgles rumbled faintly beneath Nidorino.

Rill gave a small chuckle. “Alright… lesson learned: don’t startle the stomach, and definitely don’t wiggle around too much inside it.”

Ember rolled her eyes, flicking her fur once. “And maybe don’t underestimate how much air it can hold,” she added with a small grin.

Nidorino adjusted himself again in the slick, slightly uneven pool of fluid, blinking through the warmth and wetness of the environment. “Yeah… lesson learned,” he mumbled, voice muffled and a little shaky. “Extremely… loud… and very… messy.”

Serapha, still flushed, rubbed at her cheeks with her claws and muttered another sheepish, “Sorry… sorry…” as the last sloshes of her belly slowly settled.

Serapha lowered her massive claws to her belly, rubbing gently over the slick, bouncing surface as the last small waves of fluid sloshed beneath Nidorino. Her cheeks were still flushed from the belch, but her voice was calm. “I-I’ll be more careful from now on,” she murmured, tilting her head slightly and watching him wobble inside.

Nidorino pressed against the soft, pulsing walls with his paws, the slippery, wet surface squishing under his weight. “Y-yeah… I hope so,” he muttered, voice muffled, tail flicking nervously. Each movement of the soft, elastic walls made him slide slightly in the shallow pool of stomach fluids, sticky bits of leftover berries and apples clinging to his fur and making him gag lightly.

Serapha glanced at Ember and Rill, her eyes softening. “Alright… follow me,” she said, nodding toward the path ahead. Both Ember and Rill nodded in unison, matching her pace.

The moment Serapha took a step, the ground trembled faintly under her weight. Rill lifted his feet slightly, wings bracing as he felt the tiny shock ripple up through the forest floor. Ember steadied herself as the vibration reached her paws.

Inside, Nidorino was tossed violently from side to side, colliding softly against the slick, fleshy walls. The pool beneath him sloshed, sending sticky droplets of juice and mushy remnants of berries flying against his fur. He gagged faintly as one particularly clingy piece brushed against his snout. “O-of course… now I’m covered in… leftovers,” he muttered, voice muffled by the belly’s squishy walls.

He pressed a paw against the elastic wall to steady himself, but the next step sent him sliding again. His tail flicked helplessly, and he knocked against the stomach wall with a soft thump.

Serapha’s antennae twitched sharply at the sound, her eyes narrowing slightly as she glanced down at her middle. “Nidorino?” she asked, concern lacing her deep, rumbling voice.

“C-could you… maybe… move a bit less?” Nidorino’s voice came muffled, faintly echoing through the bouncing, fluid-filled cavity. “Each step… feels like… an earthquake…”

Serapha tilted her head to the side, her claws brushing her cheeks. “I… I don’t know… how to… make it less? I can’t exactly shrink myself,” she muttered, a small nervous giggle escaping her. Her tail flicked anxiously behind her, sending small vibrations across the ground.

Ember flicked her ears with a small smile. “Well… maybe you could fly instead of walking,” she suggested, her tone teasing but practical.

Rill’s wings flapped slightly as he added, “Yeah… that way the steps won’t shake the ground as much, and Nidorino won’t get tossed around.”

Serapha blinked, then nodded slowly. “Oh… right,” she said, shifting her massive weight as she spread her wings. The motion flexed the muscles along her sides, causing gentle ripples across the squishy walls inside, and Nidorino pressed himself more firmly against a wall to keep balance.

With a deep inhale, she beat her wings powerfully, lifting herself from the forest floor. The tremors ceased almost instantly, though the gentle bouncing and slick sloshing inside continued as the stomach walls flexed around him. She flew close to her friends, moving cautiously, her massive wings creating light gusts that ruffled Ember’s fur and made Rill adjust his footing.

Serapha’s claws rubbed over her belly instinctively as she felt Nidorino shifting slightly inside. A faint rumble emanated from her throat as she exhaled slowly. “There… is that better?” she asked softly, a small smile tugging at her lips.

Inside, Nidorino pressed his paws into the slick, wet walls, feeling the constant pulse and slight bounce as she stabilized her flight. “Y-yes… much better,” he said, his voice muffled but relieved. “S-somewhat less like an earthquake… though it’s still… squishy and slippery…”

Serapha chuckled quietly, the sound reverberating through the damp walls. “I’m glad… I’ll be careful from here on.” She swayed her tail gently behind her, making the slight bumps inside her belly feel rhythmic rather than chaotic.

Ember rolled her eyes, her fur twitching with amusement. “You’re ridiculous, you know that? But… okay, at least the passenger’s not getting bounced around into orbit anymore.”

Rill smirked, giving her belly a soft tap that made a gentle ripple pass through the interior. “Yeah… careful flying it is. Try not to make him surf the stomach waves again,” he said, chuckling as he adjusted his footing on the forest floor.

Nidorino, sliding slightly but keeping his balance, muttered faintly, “I… I can deal with this… as long as the earthquakes stop.” He pressed his paws against the soft, pulsing walls and let out a small, resigned sigh. “Just… please… go steady.”

Serapha exhaled and flexed her wings carefully, tilting her head slightly. “Steady,” she murmured, rubbing her belly once more, feeling the slight squish and warm movement of Nidorino inside. The last of the juices shifted slightly with her motion, making soft, wet splashes that tickled his fur.

Ember rolled her eyes again, muttering with a grin, “You really have a way of turning a simple walk into a squishy disaster.”

Rill chuckled, shaking his head. “Hey… at least he’s still alive. That counts for something.”

Nidorino sighed, adjusting his stance once more. “I… I’ll take it. Just… don’t do that again…”

Serapha’s deep, rumbling chuckle echoed softly. “I promise… I’ll be more careful. Let’s move forward… slowly this time.” Her tail flicked behind her as she adjusted her wings for a steady flight, the faint, wet sloshes inside becoming a manageable rhythm.

The forest suddenly erupted with movement. Between the twisted, shadowy trees, a horde of Pokémon emerged: Zubat flitted overhead screeching, Murkrow cawed and hopped from branch to branch, Impidimp and Pawniard darted forward with wicked grins, Rattata and Sneasel skittered across the undergrowth, Poochyena barked in unison, and Sableye’s gemmed eyes glimmered with mischief.

The trio froze for a split second before chaos erupted. The forest floor became a flurry of movement. Each Pokémon lunged at them, separating the explorers and forcing them into combat.

Rill reacted instantly, letting loose a precise Water Gun that sprayed across the field, knocking several small Pokémon off balance. “Take that!” he shouted, flapping his wings to dodge a swooping Murkrow.

Ember leapt aside gracefully, tail flicking as a Zubat zipped past, then retaliated with a quick Ember, the flames scorching the ground near a Pawniard. “You’ll have to try harder than that!” she called, eyes blazing with determination.

Above them, Serapha felt her stomach rumble again. She glanced down at her belly, her massive claws patting and rubbing it reflexively. “Nidorino… I’m so sorry,” she murmured in a low, rumbling voice, a faint tremble in it. “It’s going to be a rough ride… you better grab onto something!”

Inside, Nidorino’s eyes widened in panic. “G-got it… I think!” he squeaked, trying to press his paws against the slick, wet walls of Serapha’s stomach. But as the Dragonite spun midair to dodge an Impidimp’s lunge, his grip slipped. He collided with the squishy, pulsing walls, bouncing off the slick surface and rolling through the shallow pool of fluids. Sticky remnants of berries and apples splashed around him as he yelped, dizzy from the sudden motion.

“Ah! S-Serapha!” he cried, wobbling as he tried desperately to find a stable spot.

Serapha’s antennae twitched, and she gave a sympathetic, low rumble. “Hold on, Nidorino! I’ve got you!” she said, feeling him shift within her. She extended her massive wings, beating them powerfully, and unleashed a violent Hurricane. The rush of wind swept through the undergrowth, tossing the smaller attackers in all directions. Leaves swirled, branches snapped, and many of the attacking Pokémon were blown off their feet.

The Dragonite dived low to the ground, almost skimming the forest floor. Her claws dug into the dirt slightly as she angled her massive jaw wide open. From inside, Nidorino pressed himself against the squishy, bouncing walls, his paws sliding slightly as he struggled to keep upright.

A few of the smaller Pokémon—Rattata, Impidimp, Poochyena—caught sight of the dark tunnel of her gaping mouth and froze. “Uh-oh… that’s… huge!” squeaked a Rattata, backing up frantically.

But Serapha was faster. She lunged forward, snapping her jaws shut around several of the fleeing Pokémon. Inside her mouth, Serapha felt their tiny struggles pressing against the slick inner cheeks, wriggling desperately.

Serapha let out a low rumble, teeth clicking together gently—not to hurt them, but to scare them. “Shhh… behave!” she murmured, feeling them squirm.

Rill shouted from above, dodging a Murkrow, “Serapha! Don’t swallow them!”

Ember nodded, tail flicking. “Yeah, just… scare them off!”

The Dragonite tilted her head back slightly, her massive throat muscles tensing as if preparing to swallow. But instead of doing so, she leaned forward and let out a loud, resounding PTOOOOOO!, spitting the Pokémon out with a wet splat. They collided with the forest floor, sliding on the loose dirt and slick leaves, covered in saliva.

The Pokémon scrambled to their feet, shaking themselves off, their eyes wide and bodies trembling. “N-no way… that’s… that’s terrifying!” squeaked an Impidimp.

“Run!” yelled a Sneasel, wobbling as it tried to regain balance.

From above, Rill and Ember watched as the Dragonite’s annoyed expression bore down on the fleeing Pokémon. Serapha’s eyes narrowed, claws flexing as her tail swayed behind her in irritation. “That’s right… scram!” she rumbled.

The small horde scattered in every direction, quivering and clearly shaken. Nidorino, still inside, pressed himself against the slippery walls, letting out a muffled, “I-I think… that’s enough…”

Serapha exhaled, closing her mouth with a satisfied rumble. She patted her belly, the fluids sloshing slightly inside, and glanced at her friends. “All clear… I think.”

Rill chuckled, wings flapping lightly as he perched on a nearby branch. “You… you really don’t mess around, do you?”

Ember shook her head, her fur still ruffled from the wind. “You’ve got a new level of… terrifying, Serapha,” she said with a grin.

Inside, Nidorino let out a muffled sigh, pressing his paws against the pulsing, squishy walls. “I… survived… just… don’t… make me ride like that again, okay?”

Serapha rumbled softly, a hint of a smile tugging at her lips. “No promises… but I’ll try.” She rubbed her belly once more, feeling the faint bounce and the sticky squelch of the fluids beneath him as they all prepared to move forward again.

Serapha’s keen eyes flicked toward Rill and froze for a split second. A thin scratch marked the Quaxly’s wing, a streak of red standing out against his feathers. Her claws flexed instinctively as worry crept into her deep, rumbling voice.

“Rill… your wing!” she exclaimed, bending down slightly, her gaze sharp.

The Quaxly waved a wing dismissively, attempting to play it off. “Ah, it’s fine, really. No big deal,” he said, giving a nervous smile.

But Ember’s ears twitched, and her tail flicked in disapproval. “No… that doesn’t look fine at all. You’re bleeding a bit. Serapha’s right to be worried.”

Serapha’s claws brushed against her bag strap, and before Rill could protest, she scooped him up gently with one hand, causing him to squawk in surprise.

“Eep! S-serapha! Wh-what are you—?”

With her other hand, she reached into her bag and grabbed a couple of Oran Berries, their smooth, orange surfaces gleaming. “Just… hold still. This will help,” she said, pressing the berries into his beak. Rill gulped them down, and she placed him gently on the ground.

He coughed and gagged lightly, eyes watering. “W-was that necessary?!” he sputtered.

Serapha’s eyes softened as she rubbed his head gently with a clawed hand. “Yes… but look at you now,” she said with a rumbling, approving smile. The scratch on his wing had already begun to close, the healing power of the berries working quickly.

Rill blinked, surprise and relief mingling in his eyes. “Wow… that… actually feels… much better.” He tilted his head, cheeks pinking. “Thanks, Serapha.”

Ember’s grin was playful, teasing. “See? She always acts like a mother to us, Rill… and the rest of the team.”

Serapha’s cheeks flushed faintly, a warm smile spreading across her face. “I… I would do anything for you all,” she murmured, her voice low and tender.

Meanwhile, inside the Dragonite’s belly, Nidorino felt the stomach walls tighten around him slightly. The pulsing muscles pressed inwards for a few beats, and though he tried to push back against them, the walls flexed stronger, forcing him to adjust his stance. The shallow pool of fluids sloshed slightly, sending sticky remnants of berries brushing against his fur. He let out a muffled “eep!” as the walls bounced him gently.

Ember tilted her head, concern in her voice. “Nidorino… you okay in there?”

“I… I’m a bit dizzy… and traumatized…” Nidorino replied, his voice muffled through the squishy walls. “Apart from that… I’m fine, I guess. But… the stomach… it’s tightening a bit more.”

Rill smirked and flapped his wings. “That’s just Serapha’s way of keeping you safe. You’re literally being hugged by her belly.”

Serapha’s cheeks flushed a deeper shade of pink. “Knock it off, Rill!” she snapped, but a faint gurgle escaped from her middle, betraying the movement inside.

Ember rolled her eyes, giving Nidorino a reassuring glance. “He’s okay, really. And if it takes too long, don’t worry—you ate the reviver seed. You’ll come back, even if you end up digested. Just… not that far, okay?”

A shiver ran down Nidorino’s spine at her words, even through the slippery, pulsating walls. “I… I hope we don’t have to get to that point…”

Serapha patted her belly gently, feeling the squishy, wet walls flex as Nidorino shifted slightly with each heartbeat. “Everything will work out,” she rumbled softly, her claws brushing over the damp, pulsing flesh. The soft gurgles from the digestive muscles around him added a strange, rhythmic accompaniment to her words, bouncing him slightly with each pulse.

Turning her gaze outward, she beckoned her friends. “Rill, Ember… go deeper into the forest. Keep an eye out for any other threats.”

Both nodded without hesitation, following her lead as Serapha spread her wings carefully. The movement caused small ripples in the pulsing walls beneath Nidorino, and he slid slightly, flapping his paws to regain his footing. The fluid beneath him splashed lightly, sticky remnants of berries clinging to his fur.

Serapha flexed her wings and rose into the air, taking care to move steadily so that the rhythmic bouncing and squishing inside did not toss Nidorino too harshly. “Hold on tight, Nidorino,” she said in a low, soothing tone. “I’ll make sure you’re not jostled around too much from here on.”

Nidorino pressed his paws against the pulsing, wet walls, adjusting as best as he could to the gentle, yet firm, squish around him. “O-okay… I… I trust you,” he murmured, tail flicking nervously.

Rill, walking alongside Serapha’s massive frame, gave a small smirk. “Look at him… the poor guy’s getting his first ride in a Dragonite’s belly. And he’s still talking!”

Ember chuckled softly, shaking her head. “Yeah… just… hope he doesn’t lose his lunch with all the splashing around.”

Serapha sighed again, a faint, amused undertone in her voice. “I’ll try to keep it… steady… no promises about the squishy parts, though,” she added, a tiny chuckle escaping as her tail flicked and ripples went through the stomach walls beneath Nidorino.

Inside, Nidorino braced himself against the slick, elastic walls, feeling them pulse with every heartbeat. The shallow pool of stomach fluids shifted beneath him, squishing against his fur and occasionally clinging to his claws. He let out a quiet, muffled sigh. “Just… keep going… slowly,” he said, voice trembling slightly. “I… I can handle it… if it’s steady.”

Serapha exhaled, beating her wings carefully and adjusting her flight path, the motion sending small, playful ripples through her middle. “Steady it is… I’ve got you,” she murmured, rubbing the squishy walls lightly with her claws to ease the slight wobble inside.

Ember flicked her tail, grinning at Rill. “This is going to be one story he’ll never forget,” she muttered.

Rill chuckled, shaking his head. “Yeah… squishy, sticky, and terrifying all at once. Classic Serapha.”

After wandering carefully through the dense forest, stepping over twisted roots and weaving through thick undergrowth, Serapha, Rill, and Ember finally came to a stop. The shadows deepened here, and the air was heavier, humid, and filled with the distant croaks and calls of unseen Pokémon.

Rill flapped his wings and tilted his head, peering around. “Hmm… I think Nidorina might be a bit deeper,” he said, scanning the towering trees and the murky swamps ahead.

Nidorino, still inside Serapha’s belly, shifted slightly against the squishy, pulsing walls. The occasional gurgles and sloshing of the stomach fluids made it difficult for him to stay balanced, and the slick slime coating the walls dripped down, sticking to his fur. He lifted a paw and tapped against the elastic wall, sending a dull thump through Serapha’s middle, trying to get the explorers’ attention.

“My… we… reached… a very deep part of the forest,” he said, voice muffled and slightly slurred by the wet, bouncing walls. “There… bigger trees… dark swamps…”

Ember’s ears flicked nervously, and her tail swished in agitation. “Dark swamps? That’s… extremely dangerous,” she said, lowering her body slightly as she scanned the gloom. “I… I have to say, Nidorino… you really did well getting this far. But… it was reckless of you to come here without a proper exploration team.”

Nidorino’s muffled voice quavered slightly as he pressed a paw against the walls again. “I… I wanted… to prove my worth… to Nidorina… and find that exclusive item… and the moon stones… for us.”

Serapha rumbled low in her throat, rubbing her belly lightly with her claws, the squishy walls flexing around Nidorino. “You… you have a lot of courage, Nidorino,” she said warmly, her tail flicking as she stepped carefully to avoid jostling him too much. “But… we have to be careful.”

Rill’s eyes suddenly lit up. “Wait—those! Moon stones!” he shouted, dashing across the leaf-strewn ground toward a small cluster of the shimmering stones partially hidden among roots and moss. His wings flared to keep him balanced as he skidded to a stop, reaching out with a triumphant squawk.

“Finally! This’ll help them evolve!” he cheered.

But before he could touch them, a sudden shadow flitted across the forest floor. With an astonishingly swift movement, the stones were snatched up, a pair of claws closing around them. The figure laughed—a high-pitched, mocking chuckle—and landed gracefully on a low branch above.

Ember growled softly, stepping forward, tail flicking. “Who’s there? Show yourself!”

Rill’s feathers bristled, wings half-raised. “Hey! Those are ours! Put them down!”

From the branch above, the shadow shifted. A sly Weavile’s eyes glinted in the dim light, and he tilted his head, showing off the stones in his claws. “Hehehe… looking for these, are you?” he mocked, hopping lightly from branch to branch, tail flicking behind it. “Too slow, little explorers.”

Serapha growled, low and rumbling, her claws flexing. “Give them back, now,” she commanded, the ground trembling slightly as she adjusted her weight. Her belly gurgled lightly, sending small ripples that Nidorino felt with a muffled “eep!”

Inside, Nidorino gripped the slick, elastic walls tightly, the fluids sloshing as the Dragonite’s heartbeat and stomach movements reverberated through the squishy space. “Uh… hey… careful!” he squeaked, muffled by the surrounding flesh.

Rill squawked indignantly, pointing a wing at the Sableye. “We found those first! Give them back! Seriously, who does that?”

Ember took a cautious step forward, ears flat against her head, tail lashing behind her. “If you don’t hand them over, we’ll make you regret it. And yes, I mean all of us. Especially the Dragonite here.”

Weavile laughed again, holding the stones higher. “Hahaha… come and get them if you dare! Or… what? That big lizard will come down and… swallow me?” he teased, narrowing his eyes.

Serapha’s eyes narrowed, tail swishing impatiently, claws flexing. “Do not test me,” she rumbled. Her wings extended, shifting her weight carefully as her stomach pulsed slightly with each heartbeat, sending Nidorino sliding gently in the squishy, wet walls. “Give them back, or I will make you regret it,” she repeated, low and dangerous.

Inside, Nidorino braced himself as the walls shifted again, gliding him slightly as her tail flicked behind. “Uh… okay… steady… don’t… jostle me too much…” he mumbled, paws pressing against the damp, elastic flesh. The squelchy, sticky remnants of previous meals shifted beneath him, giving a muffled plop with each movement.

Rill clenched his wings, glaring up at the Weavile. “This is not a negotiation! Hand them over!”

Ember took a step closer, eyes narrowing. “Seriously. You want a fight? Because you’re about to meet her patience… and it’s thin.”

Weavile hesitated, swaying slightly on the branch, weighing the threat. The stones glinted in the dim light as the forest seemed to hold its breath.

Serapha shifted forward, wings extended and massive body tense, the ground trembling beneath her claws. “Enough games,” she rumbled, her deep voice vibrating the forest floor. “Return the stones, now. Or else.”

Inside, Nidorino clutched the slippery walls, feeling the stomach pulse faster as Serapha’s body tensed. “I… I hope… she doesn’t… get too upset…” he mumbled nervously, ears twitching against the moist, pulsing walls.

Rill flapped furiously, squawking, “She’s serious! You do not want to test her!”

Ember flicked her tail sharply, stepping to the side. “Yeah. Don’t even think about it.”

The forest fell silent for a tense moment, the only sounds the distant croaks of swamp Pokémon and the soft squish of Nidorino shifting inside Serapha. The dark-type twitched, weighing its options, the stolen stones glinting ominously in the dim, shadowy light.